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The moment spring breathes life into our gardens, I can’t help but feel an overwhelming urge to bake. The vivid colors of blooming flowers and the sweet scent of fresh strawberries inspire me to create something special in the kitchen. That’s when I whipped up these delightful Strawberry Brioches with Orange Almond Cream. Each bite of these fluffy, buttery brioches transports me to a quaint Parisian patisserie—rich dough cradling a luscious filling of sweet macerated strawberries, all topped with a fragrant orange almond cream that dances on the palate.

The beauty of this recipe is not only in its decadent flavors, but also in its versatility. You can easily swap out strawberries for other berries or even tart rhubarb, making it a year-round favorite. Even on the busiest days, preparing them is a breeze—most of the elements can be prepped ahead of time, inviting you to savor the process as much as the end result. So, roll up your sleeves and join me in welcoming spring with this irresistible treat!

Why will you love Strawberry Brioches with Orange Almond Cream?

Irresistible Taste: Each brioche is brimming with buttery richness paired with sweet, juicy strawberries, creating a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.

Versatile Options: Swap strawberries for other berries or rhubarb to customize the recipe while celebrating seasonal flavors.

Effortless Baking: The process is simple and straightforward, with clear steps that make it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs.

Perfect for Gatherings: Impress your friends and family with a treat that looks as fantastic as it tastes, ideal for brunches or special occasions.

Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep elements ahead of time, so you can enjoy the delicious payoff with minimal fuss on busy days—check out my tips on prepping ahead.

Strawberry Brioches with Orange Almond Cream Ingredients

For the Brioche Dough

Brioche Dough – This rich foundation is essential for a light and airy texture.
Butter – Adds a luxurious richness; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free version.
Eggs – Vital for leavening and giving the dough its richness; no substitutes recommended.
Sugar – Sweetens the dough and encourages beautiful browning; consider brown sugar for extra flavor depth.
Flour – Provides structure; all-purpose flour is preferred, but you can use gluten-free flour with adjustments.
Yeast – The secret to fluffiness; instant yeast is user-friendly and reliable.
Milk – Hydrates the dough and contributes to its buttery richness; swap for non-dairy milk in a vegan version.
Salt – Enhances flavors and balances sweetness; don’t skip this ingredient.

For the Strawberry Filling

Strawberries – Fresh, juicy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the almond cream; you can replace with other berries or rhubarb if desired.
Sugar and Salt (for maceration) – Enhances the flavor of strawberries; adjust according to the sweetness of your berries.

For the Orange Almond Cream

Orange Zest – Infuses a bright, citrus aroma into the frangipane; fresh zest offers the best flavor.
Vanilla Bean – Energetically flavors both the cream and strawberries; use vanilla extract as an alternative, though it will slightly alter the profile.

This delightful list of ingredients will guide you in crafting the exquisite Strawberry Brioches with Orange Almond Cream. Gather them all, and let’s get baking!

How to Make Strawberry Brioches with Orange Almond Cream

Prepare Brioche Dough:
Combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a bowl; let it sit until foamy, about 5-10 minutes. In another bowl, mix flour, salt, butter, and eggs; then add the yeast mixture and knead until smooth, around 10 minutes.
First Rise:
Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, approximately 1-2 hours.
Make Frangipane:
In a food processor, blend butter, sugar, almond flour, egg, vanilla, and orange zest until creamy and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
Shape Brioche:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently. Divide the dough into equal portions, shape each into balls, and place them in greased molds.
Second Rise:
Cover the shaped brioche with a towel and let them rise again until puffed up, approximately 30-45 minutes.
Preheat Oven:
While the brioche rises, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring a warm environment for a great bake.
Prepare Strawberries:
Slice fresh strawberries and toss them with sugar and a pinch of salt; let them macerate for about 15-20 minutes to enhance their natural sweetness.
Assemble Pastries:
Once the brioche has risen, dollop a generous spoonful of frangipane on top of each piece of dough, then adorn with the macerated strawberries.
Bake:
Place the brioche in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until they reach a golden brown color and sound hollow when tapped.
Cool and Serve:
After baking, remove from the oven and allow the brioche to cool slightly in the molds before gently lifting them out to serve warm.

Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Strawberry Brioches with Orange Almond Cream Variations

Feel free to play with the ingredients and customize these delightful brioches to suit your taste and pantry!

Berry Medley: Swap strawberries for a mix of raspberries, blueberries, or blackcurrants for a vibrant, colorful twist. Each berry will bring a unique flavor profile to your brioche.
Rhubarb Surprise: Replace strawberries with tart rhubarb for a zesty, tangy filling that pairs beautifully with the creamy almond flavor. This twist adds a refreshing bite, perfect for spring!
Citrus Zing: Try using lemon zest instead of orange for a bright, zesty frangipane that will wake up your taste buds and keep things interesting. It adds a lovely freshness to every bite.
Nutty Delight: Incorporate a variety of crushed nuts, like pistachios or hazelnuts, into the frangipane for an added crunch and depth of flavor. The nutty texture complements the softness of the brioche beautifully.
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in chocolate chips or chunks into the brioche dough or sprinkle on top before baking for a decadent chocolate-infused version. Chocolate and almond are a match made in heaven.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground ginger to the almond cream for a surprising spicy element that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the fruit. This twist will elevate your flavors and add warmth.
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk in place of regular milk and substitute the butter with margarine or coconut oil for a delightful dairy-free treat. It keeps the richness intact while catering to dietary preferences.
Savory Alternative: Experiment by omitting the sugar in the brioche dough and almond cream, and add herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory version. This could be a unique addition to brunch or a spring picnic!

Each of these variations opens the door to new flavors while maintaining the heartwarming essence of your strawberry brioches. Enjoy the creative kitchen journey!

Expert Tips for Strawberry Brioches

Yeast Care: Always ensure your milk is warm (not hot) when activating yeast. Too high a temperature can kill the yeast and ruin your brioche.
Dough Texture: Aim for a smooth, elastic dough during kneading. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, but don’t overdo it, or the brioche may be dense.
Macération Magic: Allow strawberries to sit with sugar and salt for at least 15 minutes. This step enhances their flavor and helps them stay juicy when baked.
Check Oven Temp: Ovens can vary, so check for doneness a few minutes early. Your strawberry brioches should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
Storage Tips: These brioche treats are best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze them after baking. Reheat briefly in the oven for a delightful treat later.

With these tips in mind, you’ll create perfect Strawberry Brioches with Orange Almond Cream every time!

Make Ahead Options

These Strawberry Brioches with Orange Almond Cream are perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delightful dessert without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the brioche dough and frangipane up to 24 hours in advance. Simply make the dough and allow it to rise, then shape the brioche balls, cover them, and refrigerate overnight. The frangipane can also be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, ensuring it’s ready when you need it. When you’re ready to bake, let the brioche come to room temperature before applying the frangipane and macerated strawberries, and pop them in the oven. This method keeps the flavors deliciously fresh while saving precious time!

How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Brioches

Room Temperature: Store leftover strawberry brioches in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their softness and moisture.

Fridge: If not consumed within the first couple of days, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Place them in a sealed container to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled brioches in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating: To quickly reheat, place frozen or refrigerated strawberry brioches in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes or until warmed through.

What to Serve with Strawberry Brioches with Orange Almond Cream?

Indulge in a delightful spring meal that pairs wonderfully with these airy, fruity treats.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet brioches, balancing richness with brightness.
Café au Lait: Creamy coffee enhances the flavors while providing a comforting warmth, making it a perfect brunch companion.
Honey Yogurt: A drizzle of honey-infused yogurt brings a creamy texture and subtle sweetness, creating a delightful dip for the brioches.
Savory Quiche: A slice of quiche with fresh herbs and cheese complements the sweetness of the brioche, providing a hearty balance.
Sparkling Lemonade: The fizzy zest of sparkling lemonade serves as a refreshing and zesty drink to cleanse the palate and elevate the occasion.
Lemon Meringue Tart: A tangy dessert like lemon meringue provides a sweet contrast that echoes the citrus notes in the almond cream.

Strawberry Brioches with Orange Almond Cream Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe strawberries?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are vibrant red all over, with a slight sheen and no dark spots. They should feel firm but slightly soft when gently squeezed. If you find berries with green tops and a sweet aroma, you can rest assured you’ve selected perfect, ripe strawberries to complement your brioche.

How should I store Strawberry Brioches?
To maintain the softness of your strawberry brioches, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate them where they can last for up to 5 days. Make sure they are well-sealed to prevent them from drying out!

Can I freeze Strawberry Brioches with Orange Almond Cream?
Yes, you can! Allow the brioches to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw them overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a delightful treat.

What should I do if my brioche dough doesn’t rise?
Very good question! If your dough hasn’t risen after the first hour, check that your yeast is fresh and that your milk was warm (not too hot) when mixed. You can also try placing the dough in a warmer area, as yeast thrives in warmth. If all else fails, don’t stress; simply give it a bit more time to rise.

Are there any dietary concerns I should consider when making these brioches?
Absolutely! While most ingredients are straightforward, if you’re cooking for those with allergies, be mindful of substitutions. For instance, substitute butter with margarine for a dairy-free option and check that your almond flour is safe for nut allergies. You can also use gluten-free flour if needed; just ensure to adjust the liquid ingredients accordingly.