Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls

Soft, buttery, and slightly sweet, these Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls are a perfect blend of rich flavors and delicate textures. Each roll is infused with a subtle sweetness, enhanced by the warm, herbaceous notes of fresh sage. The final touch—a luscious honey butter glaze and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt—creates a beautiful balance of sweet and savory. These rolls are perfect for special occasions, holiday dinners, or simply as a treat to elevate any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and Fluffy – The brioche dough is rich, tender, and irresistibly light.
• Sweet and Savory Perfection – The honey butter glaze with sage and sea salt enhances every bite.
• Versatile – Perfect for holiday feasts, brunch spreads, or as a side for soups and stews.
• Easy to Make Ahead – The dough can be prepared in advance for convenience.
• Elegant Presentation – These golden-brown rolls are as beautiful as they are delicious.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Brioche Rolls:

• All-purpose flour
• Instant yeast
• Sugar
• Salt
• Warm milk
• Large eggs
• Unsalted butter, softened

For the Honey Butter Glaze:

• Unsalted butter
• Honey
• Fresh sage, finely chopped
• Flaky sea salt

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Incorporate Liquids: Add warm milk and eggs, mixing until a dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Gradually knead in the softened butter, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise: Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape the Rolls: Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and shape them into smooth rolls. Place them in a greased baking dish.
6. Second Rise: Cover and let the rolls rise again for 30-45 minutes, until puffy.
7. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Make the Honey Butter: While the rolls are baking, melt butter in a small saucepan. Stir in the honey and finely chopped sage.
9. Glaze the Rolls: Brush the warm rolls with the honey butter mixture and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
10. Serve Warm: Enjoy the rolls fresh from the oven for the best flavor and texture.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Rising Time: 1.5 hours
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
• Servings: 12 rolls
• Calories: 220 kcal per roll

Variations

• Herb Variations: Swap sage for rosemary or thyme for a different aromatic twist.
• Sweet Brioche: Increase the sugar slightly and add orange zest for a sweeter roll.
• Cheesy Rolls: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar on top before baking.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend designed for yeast baking.
• Nutty Flavor: Add chopped toasted pecans to the honey butter glaze for a rich, crunchy topping.

Storage and Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days. Warm them slightly before serving.
• Freezing: Freeze the baked rolls in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough overnight after the first rise. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

What if I don’t have instant yeast?

You can use active dry yeast, but you’ll need to proof it in warm milk for 5-10 minutes before adding it to the dough.

How do I make sure my brioche rolls are fluffy?

Proper kneading and allowing the dough to rise fully are key to achieving a light and fluffy texture.

Can I use dried sage instead of fresh?

Yes, but use only ½ teaspoon of dried sage, as dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor.

What can I serve these rolls with?

These rolls pair well with roasted meats, soups, holiday spreads, or even as a base for sliders.

How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

They should be golden brown on top, and a thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 190°F (88°C).

Can I make mini rolls?

Yes, divide the dough into 18 smaller pieces and reduce the baking time to about 12-15 minutes.

What if my dough is too sticky?

Slightly sticky dough is normal, but if it’s too wet, add a tablespoon of flour at a time while kneading.

Can I use honey instead of sugar in the dough?

Yes, but reduce the milk slightly to balance the moisture content.

Why do I need to brush the rolls with honey butter while they are warm?

The warmth helps the butter absorb into the rolls, enhancing the flavor and keeping them soft.

Conclusion

These Salted Sage Honey Butter Brioche Rolls are a perfect combination of sweet, savory, and buttery goodness. Whether served as a side dish for a special dinner or enjoyed on their own, they bring an elegant touch to any table. Their soft, flaky texture and aromatic honey butter glaze make them a must-try for bread lovers. Try this recipe today and experience the deliciousness of homemade brioche rolls!