Brioche buns are known for their rich, tender crumb and golden, buttery flavor, making them a perfect accompaniment to a variety of fillings, from savory meats to sweet pastries. However, traditional brioche recipes often come with a hefty calorie count due to the significant amount of butter and eggs they contain. For those looking to enjoy the delightful taste of brioche without the guilt, making a low-calorie version is definitely achievable with a few tweaks to the classic recipe. In this guide, we will explore how to make a low-cal brioche bun, focusing on recipe tips and substitutions that help reduce the calorie content without compromising on taste and texture.
Understanding Brioche
Brioche is a French pastry that stands out for its high egg and butter content, which gives it a characteristic light and airy texture. The traditional recipe involves mixing yeast, flour, eggs, and a considerable amount of butter, then allowing the dough to rise, which contributes to its flaky, tender crumb. To make a low-calorie brioche, we need to address the high-calorie ingredients: butter and eggs.
Substitutions for Lower Calorie Content
To reduce the calorie count of brioche buns, several substitutions can be made:
- Butter Reduction and Substitution: One of the most significant contributors to the high calorie count of brioche is butter. Reducing the amount used and substituting some of it with a lower-calorie alternative like avocado oil or a plant-based butter substitute can significantly lower the calorie content.
- Egg Substitution: Eggs not only add richness but also structure to the brioche. Using egg whites instead of whole eggs can reduce calories, or you can use flaxseed eggs (1 tablespoon ground flax + 3 tablespoons water, mixed and allowed to gel for 5 minutes) as a vegan substitute.
- Yeast and Rising Time: Ensuring the dough rises properly can help maintain the light texture of brioche even with reduced calorie ingredients. Using active dry yeast and allowing sufficient time for the dough to rise is crucial.
Another key aspect of making low-cal brioche buns is selecting the right type of flour. Using a whole wheat flour or a combination of all-purpose and whole wheat flour can not only reduce calories but also add fiber to the buns, making them a healthier option.
Low-Cal Brioche Bun Recipe
Here is a simplified recipe for low-cal brioche buns that incorporates some of the substitutions mentioned above:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Wheat Flour | 1 1/2 cups |
| All-Purpose Flour | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Active Dry Yeast | 1 teaspoon |
| Warm Water | 1/2 cup |
| Egg Whites | 2 large |
| Avocado Oil | 1/4 cup |
Instructions:
- Combine the flours, salt, sugar, and yeast in a mixing bowl.
- Add the warm water, egg whites, and avocado oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 4-6 portions, depending on the desired size of your buns.
- Shape each portion into a ball and flatten it slightly into a disk shape. Place the buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each bun.
- Let the buns rise for another 30-45 minutes, then bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture
Achieving the light, airy texture of traditional brioche with lower-calorie ingredients can be challenging, but a few tips can help:
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough just until the ingredients come together, then knead. Overmixing can lead to a dense brioche.
- Respect the Rise: Allow the dough to rise fully to ensure the buns have a light texture.
- Don't Overbake: Brioche buns are best when they are lightly golden. Overbaking can make them dry and dense.
Incorporating these tips and substitutions into your brioche recipe can help you create delicious, lower-calorie brioche buns that are perfect for sandwiches, burgers, or simply as a side to your favorite meals.
How do I store low-cal brioche buns to keep them fresh?
+To keep low-cal brioche buns fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Simply place the cooled buns in a freezer-safe bag or container and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. To thaw, leave at room temperature or reheat in the microwave or oven.
Can I use other types of oil instead of avocado oil?
+Yes, you can use other types of oil as a substitute for avocado oil in low-cal brioche buns. Olive oil, coconut oil, and grapeseed oil are popular alternatives. However, keep in mind that each oil has a distinct flavor and smoke point, which may affect the taste and baking performance of your buns.
Making low-cal brioche buns is all about balance—balancing flavor, texture, and calorie count. With the right substitutions and a bit of patience, you can enjoy the richness of brioche without the guilt, making it a great addition to a variety of meals and diets.
