I Don't Buy Bread Anymore! I make it more delicious with Simple Ingredients!

I Don't Buy Bread Anymore! I make it more delicious with Simple Ingredients! is a medium Middle Eastern recipe that serves 6. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by مطبخ ساره وملك // Sarah and Malak’s Kitchen on YouTube.

Prep: 1 hr 15 min | Cook: 20 min | Total: 2 hrs 10 min

Cost: $3.05 total, $0.51 per serving

Ingredients

  • 500 g Bread Flour (high‑protein flour for a strong gluten network)
  • 7 g Active Dry Yeast (one standard packet)
  • 50 g Granulated Sugar (helps feed the yeast and adds a slight sweetness)
  • 150 ml Warm Water (around 38‑40°C, not hot)
  • 150 ml Warm Milk (whole milk for richness; can use 2%)
  • 2 large Egg Yolks (separated from whites, room temperature)
  • 2 large Egg Whites (kept aside; can be whisked into the dough for extra lift)
  • 150 g Unsalted Butter (softened, cut into cubes; folded into dough)
  • 10 g Salt (enhances flavor)
  • 2 tbsp Toasted Sesame Seeds (optional garnish for extra crunch and flavor)

Instructions

  1. Activate Yeast

    In a mixing bowl combine the active dry yeast, granulated sugar, warm water, and warm milk. Stir gently and let sit for 10 minutes until frothy.

    Time: PT10M

  2. Separate Eggs

    Separate the egg whites from the yolks. Set the whites aside in a small bowl and keep the yolks at room temperature.

    Time: PT2M

  3. Combine Egg Yolks

    Add the two egg yolks to the yeast mixture and whisk until fully incorporated.

    Time: PT2M

  4. Form the Dough

    Add the bread flour and salt to the bowl. Knead by hand or with a stand mixer on low speed until a smooth, elastic dough forms (about 8‑10 minutes).

    Time: PT10M

  5. Fold in Butter

    Add the softened butter cubes to the dough. Fold and knead until the butter is fully incorporated and the dough becomes glossy and supple.

    Time: PT8M

  6. First Proof

    Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 35 minutes.

    Time: PT35M

  7. Divide Dough

    Punch down the risen dough gently, then divide it into three equal portions using a bench scraper.

    Time: PT5M

  8. Shape Loaves

    Flatten each portion, roll it into an even circle, then roll the circle tightly into a log and seal the edges. Place each shaped loaf on a parchment‑lined baking sheet.

    Time: PT10M

  9. Add Garnish & Score

    If desired, brush the tops lightly with a little milk and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds. Score the surface with a sharp blade for a decorative pattern.

    Time: PT5M

  10. Second Proof

    Cover the loaves loosely and let them rise again until puffy, about 25 minutes.

    Time: PT25M

  11. Bake

    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaves for 20 minutes, or until the tops are deep golden and sound hollow when tapped.

    Time: PT20M

    Temperature: 350°F

  12. Cool

    Remove the bread from the oven and transfer to a cooling rack. Let cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

    Time: PT15M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
350
Protein
8 g
Carbohydrates
45 g
Fat
15 g
Fiber
2 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian

Allergens: Eggs, Dairy, Gluten, Sesame

Last updated: April 6, 2026

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I Don't Buy Bread Anymore! I make it more delicious with Simple Ingredients!

Recipe by مطبخ ساره وملك // Sarah and Malak’s Kitchen

A pillowy, buttery brioche‑style bread that’s golden on the outside and soft on the inside. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack, this recipe walks you through every step—from activating the yeast to the final golden bake—so you can recreate the family‑favorite loaf from Sarah and Malak’s Kitchen.

MediumMiddle EasternServes 6

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
2h 7m
Prep
20m
Cook
18m
Cleanup
2h 45m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$3.05
Total cost
$0.51
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Folding the softened butter into the dough without melting it.
  • Ensuring the dough doubles during the first proof.
  • Properly sealing the edges after rolling to keep the loaf shape.
  • Scoring the tops before baking for an even rise and decorative look.

Safety Warnings

  • Handle hot oven trays with oven mitts to avoid burns.
  • Do not let the yeast mixture exceed 45°C, as it can kill the yeast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of soft buttery brioche‑style bread in Middle Eastern cuisine?

A

While brioche originates from France, soft buttery breads have become a beloved staple in many Middle Eastern households, often served at breakfast or special gatherings. The technique of folding butter into enriched dough mirrors traditional Arab sweet breads like khubz mahmous, reflecting a shared love for tender, fragrant loaves.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of soft buttery bread in Middle Eastern cuisine?

A

In the Levant, similar breads are flavored with mahlab or orange blossom water, while in the Gulf they may be topped with nigella seeds. Some families add cardamom or rose water to the dough for a fragrant twist, showing the versatility of this enriched bread across the region.

cultural
Q

How is soft buttery brioche‑style bread traditionally served in Middle Eastern households?

A

It is typically served warm, sliced, and enjoyed with honey, labneh, or cheese. During holidays and family gatherings, the loaves are often presented on a large platter and eaten alongside olives, fresh herbs, and tea.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is soft buttery brioche‑style bread traditionally associated with in Middle Eastern culture?

A

Enriched breads like this are common at Eid al‑Fitr, Ramadan iftars, and family birthdays. Their rich texture makes them a festive treat that pairs well with sweet spreads and savory dips during celebrations.

cultural
Q

What authentic traditional ingredients are used in this soft buttery bread versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Traditional ingredients include bread flour, unsalted butter, whole milk, and eggs. Substitutes such as all‑purpose flour, plant‑based butter, or almond milk work well, but they may slightly alter the crumb and flavor.

cultural
Q

What other Middle Eastern dishes pair well with soft buttery brioche‑style bread?

A

Pair it with hummus, baba ganoush, labneh with za’atar, or a simple olive oil dip. It also complements stews like lamb tagine or chicken maklouba, soaking up sauces beautifully.

cultural
Q

What makes this soft buttery brioche‑style bread special or unique in Middle Eastern cuisine?

A

The key is the butter‑folding step, which creates a tender, melt‑in‑your‑mouth crumb unlike typical flatbreads. The optional sesame seed topping adds a subtle nutty crunch that is beloved in the region.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making soft buttery brioche‑style bread?

A

Common errors include over‑mixing the dough, letting the butter melt during folding, and over‑proofing which leads to a collapsed loaf. Keep the butter cool, monitor rise times, and handle the dough gently.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe fold softened butter into the dough instead of melting it?

A

Folding softened butter creates layers of fat that coat the gluten strands, giving the bread its characteristic softness and lift. Melted butter would be absorbed too quickly, resulting in a denser crumb.

technical
Q

Can I make this soft buttery brioche‑style bread ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes. After the first proof, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours, then shape and bake when ready. Once baked, store the cooled loaves in an airtight container; they stay fresh for 2‑3 days at room temperature or 2 months frozen.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Sarah and Malak’s Kitchen specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Sarah and Malak’s Kitchen focuses on easy‑to‑follow Middle Eastern home cooking, featuring family‑friendly recipes, traditional breads, and everyday meals that celebrate Arab flavors with simple techniques.

channel

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