If you’re searching for a truly decadent yet comforting treat that feels like a warm hug from the oven, then the Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls Recipe is about to become your new obsession. These rolls embody the perfect balance between rich, buttery brioche dough and the aromatic punch of fresh sage, all enhanced by a luscious honey butter glaze with just the right touch of sea salt. Every bite is soft, slightly sweet, and utterly satisfying, making these rolls a standout for holidays, family dinners, or any special moment when you want to impress with something unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these heavenly rolls, you only need a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together magically. Each component plays a crucial role in crafting the soft texture, golden crust, and that irresistible flavor profile.
- All-purpose flour (3 ½ cups): The backbone of the brioche, providing structure and that tender crumb we love.
- Granulated sugar (¼ cup): Adds gentle sweetness to balance the salty butter and savory sage.
- Active dry yeast (1 packet / 2 ¼ teaspoons): The magic starter that makes the dough rise light and fluffy.
- Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances the flavors and controls yeast fermentation for perfect dough.
- Warm whole milk (½ cup): Adds richness and helps activate the yeast effectively.
- Large eggs (3, room temperature): Provide richness, moisture, and beautiful golden color.
- Unsalted butter (½ cup, softened and cubed): Infuses the dough with buttery tenderness and flakiness.
- Fresh sage (2 tablespoons, finely chopped): Brings earthy, aromatic notes that elevate the buttery glaze.
- Honey (3 tablespoons): Adds natural sweetness and helps create a sticky, glossy finish.
- Salted butter (¼ cup, melted): Used in the honey glaze for an extra layer of flavor and moisture.
- Flaky sea salt (for topping): A finishing touch that provides a delightful crunch and a pop of saltiness.
How to Make Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients and Activate Yeast
Begin by mixing the flour, sugar, yeast, and kosher salt in your stand mixer’s bowl. This step ensures the dry ingredients are evenly distributed and the yeast is ready to work its magic once you add the warm milk and eggs. Keeping the milk warm at about 110°F is key to activate the yeast without killing it, ensuring your dough rises beautifully.
Step 2: Mix and Knead the Dough
With your mixer on low, add the warm milk and eggs, merging all ingredients until they form a rough dough. Then increase to medium speed and knead for about 5 minutes to develop the gluten. Gradually add your softened, cubed unsalted butter a little at a time. This slow incorporation gives the brioche its signature richness and silky texture. Keep kneading until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly shiny, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes total.
Step 3: First Rise
Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size—this takes around 1 to 1 ½ hours. This first rise develops flavor and lightness, making the rolls fluffy and tender.
Step 4: Shape the Rolls
After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release excess air. Divide the dough evenly into 12 portions and shape each into a smooth, tight ball. Place these into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving just enough room for them to puff up during the second rise.
Step 5: Second Rise and Prepare Honey Sage Butter
Cover the rolls loosely and allow them to rise again for about 45 minutes until puffy. Meanwhile, heat your salted butter with chopped fresh sage and honey over low heat for 1 to 2 minutes. This simple infusion brings the sage’s earthiness alive and sweetens it with honey, creating the unforgettable butter glaze that will coat the rolls.
Step 6: Bake and Finish
Brush half of the honey sage butter over the tops of the rolls before baking to lock in moisture and boost flavor. Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the rolls are golden and heavenly looking. Immediately after removing from the oven, brush on the remaining butter mixture and sprinkle generously with flaky sea salt to add texture and contrast to the delicate sweetness.
How to Serve Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
These rolls are stunning on their own, but if you want to add a little flair, consider a small sprinkle of additional chopped sage or a light drizzle of extra honey before serving. A few fresh sage leaves on the side can also brighten up the presentation beautifully.
Side Dishes
The rich Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls pair wonderfully with savory dishes like roasted chicken, glazed ham, or hearty stews. They soak up sauces and gravies like a dream, making them an ideal companion for festive dinners or everyday comfort meals.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching centerpiece, serve the rolls in a rustic wooden bowl lined with a colorful napkin. Alternatively, pull them apart before serving in a bread basket so guests can grab the perfect warm bite. You can also slice them in half and make mini sandwiches filled with herbed butter or creamy cheese for a delightful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the rolls soft and fresh. Avoid refrigerating as it tends to dry out the delicate brioche crumb.
Freezing
These rolls freeze beautifully. Once baked and cooled completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to two months. When you want them, thaw overnight at room temperature for the best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the rolls in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes. For a quick option, microwave them covered for 15 to 20 seconds, then brush with a little extra honey sage butter. This refreshes their softness and boosts that incredible buttery flavor.
FAQs
Can I use dried sage instead of fresh in the Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute dried sage if fresh isn’t available—use about 2 teaspoons of dried sage instead. Keep in mind that fresh sage tends to have a brighter flavor and better aroma, but dried works fine in a pinch.
Is it possible to make these rolls without a stand mixer?
Absolutely! You can mix and knead the dough by hand, though it will take a bit more time and effort. Just be sure to knead until the dough feels smooth and elastic to get that perfect brioche texture.
How do I know when the dough has risen enough?
The dough should roughly double in size during the rise periods. A good test is to gently press a finger into the dough—if the indentation remains, it’s ready for the next step.
Can I make these rolls ahead of time for a party?
Definitely. You can prepare the dough and do the first rise the night before, refrigerate it overnight, then shape, rise again, and bake on the day of your event. This saves time and still delivers fresh rolls.
What is the best way to serve these rolls warm?
The best way is straight out of the oven brushed with the honey sage butter and sprinkled with flaky sea salt. If reheating, warm gently to maintain softness and reapply a small amount of butter for that fresh-from-the-oven experience.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls Recipe, you’ll understand why it has a special place in my heart—and hopefully yours, too. The balance of buttery softness, sweet honey glaze, and fragrant sage makes every bite feel indulgent and comforting. Whether it’s for a holiday table, a weekend brunch, or just to treat yourself, these rolls are a crowd-pleaser. I can’t wait for you to make them and share the joy with your loved ones!
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Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these soft and buttery Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls, perfect as a side dish for any meal or festive occasion. Infused with fresh sage and sweet honey, these golden rolls offer a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors, brushed with rich honey sage butter and finished with flaky sea salt for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
Dough
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ cup warm whole milk (about 110°F)
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened and cubed)
Honey Sage Butter
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh sage
- 3 tablespoons honey
- ¼ cup salted butter (melted)
Topping
- Flaky sea salt (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In the stand mixer bowl fitted with a dough hook, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and kosher salt. Add warm milk and eggs, then mix on low speed until the dough starts to come together.
- Knead the Dough: Increase mixer speed to medium and knead for about 5 minutes. Gradually add softened unsalted butter, a few pieces at a time, allowing incorporation before adding more. Continue kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 8–10 minutes total.
- First Rise: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 1 ½ hours.
- Shape Rolls: Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a smooth ball and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Second Rise: Cover the rolls loosely and allow them to rise again until puffy, about 45 minutes.
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Butter: Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a small saucepan, melt salted butter with chopped fresh sage and honey. Simmer for 1–2 minutes to infuse flavors.
- Brush Rolls Before Baking: Brush half of the honey sage butter over the risen rolls before putting them in the oven.
- Bake: Bake rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Finish Rolls: Remove from oven and immediately brush the remaining honey sage butter over the hot rolls. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
- Serve: Serve rolls warm for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- These rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently before serving to restore softness.
- If fresh sage is unavailable, substitute with 2 teaspoons dried sage.
