Description
This Feta, Spinach, and Pesto Brioche is a delightful Mediterranean-inspired savory bread featuring a soft brioche dough braided with fresh spinach, tangy feta cheese, and fragrant basil pesto. Perfect for brunch, appetizers, or a picnic, this elegant bread delivers a flavorful combination of creamy, herbaceous, and slightly tangy notes baked into a golden, tender loaf.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 sheet store-bought brioche dough (or homemade)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons basil pesto
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Prepare the Dough: Roll out the brioche dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle approximately 1/4-inch thick, creating an even base for layering flavors.
- Spread the Pesto: Evenly spread the basil pesto over the rolled dough, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent spilling during rolling.
- Add Spinach and Feta: Sprinkle the chopped fresh spinach and crumbled feta cheese over the pesto-covered dough, distributing them evenly for a balanced taste.
- Roll the Dough: Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log, ensuring the filling stays inside.
- Slice Lengthwise: Using a sharp knife, slice the log lengthwise down the middle to expose the filling inside the two halves.
- Twist and Shape: Twist the two halves together with the cut sides facing upward to form a braid. Transfer the braid gently to the prepared baking sheet and either shape it into a ring or leave it as a long loaf.
- Apply Egg Wash and Seeds: Brush the braid’s surface with the beaten egg to achieve a beautiful golden crust and sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds, if desired, for added texture and flavor.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the brioche is golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brioche to cool slightly before slicing into 8 pieces and serving warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- This brioche is delicious served warm or at room temperature.
- For extra flavor, add sun-dried tomatoes or chopped olives to the filling.
- Works wonderfully as a savory brunch centerpiece or a picnic dish.