Imagine walking into your kitchen, and the sweet scent of baking bread envelops you like a warm hug. That’s the magic of making a Strawberry Rhubarb Brioche Loaf. This delightful treat combines the fruity tartness of rhubarb with the sweetness of strawberries, all wrapped in a soft, buttery brioche that’s simply irresistible.

As I prepared this loaf last weekend, I was transported back to summer afternoons spent picking strawberries in my grandma’s garden, dreaming of all the delicious things we could create together. This recipe not only satisfies my sweet tooth, but it also serves as a beautiful centerpiece for family gatherings or cozy get-togethers with friends.

With its vibrant pink swirls and fluffy texture, this brioche loaf is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate. The ease of preparation ensures that you can impress without the stress, making it a perfect choice for both novice cooks and seasoned bakers alike. Let’s dive into this delightful baking adventure that will leave your kitchen filled with nostalgia and your heart warmed.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Rhubarb Brioche

Uniform Texture: The soft and fluffy brioche is the ideal vessel for the vibrant strawberry and rhubarb filling, creating a beautiful contrast that will delight your taste buds.

Nostalgic Flavors: Reminiscent of summer days spent picking strawberries, this recipe taps into cherished memories that make every bite special.

Visual Appeal: The stunning pink swirls not only taste fantastic but are also show-stoppers that brighten up any table setting, making it perfect for gatherings.

Effortless Baking: With simple steps and ingredients, you can whip up this masterpiece without spending hours in the kitchen, allowing you to enjoy the experience.

Versatile Delight: Whether served warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or paired with a side of whipped cream, it’s a treat everyone will love.

You might also enjoy pairing it with our delightful Strawberry Pop Tart for a sweet brunch spread!

Strawberry Rhubarb Brioche Ingredients

For the Dough
• All-Purpose Flour – This provides the structure and texture; you can swap in bread flour for a chewier bite.
• Active Dry Yeast – The leavening agent that gives rise; freshness is key for fluffy results.
• Granulated Sugar – A touch of sweetness that feeds the yeast; brown sugar can add a rich flavor.
• Salt – Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity; don’t skip it!
• Warm Milk – Hydrates the dough and activates the yeast; try almond or oat milk for dairy-free options.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds creamy richness; coconut oil is a good alternative for a dairy-free version.
• Large Eggs – Binds the dough and adds richness; use flax eggs for a vegan substitute.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavors; opt for pure vanilla extract for the best aroma.

For the Filling
• Strawberries – Sweetness and freshness; fresh or frozen both work well, just be sure to chop them!
• Rhubarb – Brings a tart contrast to the sweetness; crunchy and vibrant, it’s a must for balance.
• Sugar – Sweetens the filling; adjust based on your taste preference.
• Cornstarch – Thickens the filling to prevent it from being too runny during baking.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the flavors; can also use lime juice for a zesty twist.

For the Glaze (optional)
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and gives a beautiful glossy finish; substitute with coconut sugar for a less refined option.
• Milk – Needed to combine the powdered sugar into a pourable glaze; substitute with non-dairy milk if preferred.

This Strawberry Rhubarb Brioche is sure to become a favorite in your home, evoking fabulous memories with each bite!

How to Make Strawberry Rhubarb Brioche

Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast on top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. This blend will provide the foundation for your brioche.
Combine & Knead: Pour the foamy yeast mixture into the flour mixture, then add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until it forms a dough and knead for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic.
First Rise: Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and place in a warm spot. Let it rise for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Prepare Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine chopped strawberries, rhubarb, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until thickened, stirring frequently. Allow it to cool completely.
Roll Out Dough: Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out into a rectangle, approximately 10×15 inches.
Add Filling: Spread the cooled strawberry-rhubarb mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges.
Form the Loaf: Starting from one end, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice the log in half lengthwise, exposing the filling, and twist the two halves together with cut sides facing upward.
Second Rise: Place the twisted loaf into a greased loaf pan, cover, and let rise for another 30-40 minutes until puffed.
Preheat Oven & Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the loaf with melted butter, then bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown. If it browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes.
Cool & Glaze (optional): Once baked, cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Drizzle with a powdered sugar glaze if desired.

Optional: Serve warm and dust with powdered sugar for a lovely finishing touch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Strawberry Rhubarb Variations

Feel free to customize your Strawberry Rhubarb Brioche with these creative ideas that will elevate your baking experience.

Berry Medley: Mix strawberries and raspberries for a delightful combination of sweetness and tartness that brightens every bite.
Almond Flavor: Add almond extract in place of vanilla for a nutty twist that pairs perfectly with the fruity filling.
Nutty Crunch: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling for added texture and a satisfying crunch that complements the softness of the brioche.
Citrus Zest: Incorporate lime or orange zest into the dough for a refreshing zing that enhances the overall flavor profile of the loaf.
Spiced Delight: Sprinkle a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the filling for a warm, comforting aroma that brings out the best in your strawberries and rhubarb.
Chocolate Indulgence: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the baked loaf for a decadent finish that every chocolate lover will swoon over.
Vegan Twist: Substitute butter with coconut oil and eggs with flax eggs to create a delicious vegan version without losing any of the lusciousness.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to cater to gluten-sensitive friends, allowing everyone to enjoy this scrumptious treat together.

These variations are just the beginning! Let your imagination run wild and create a Strawberry Rhubarb Brioche that feels uniquely yours.

What to Serve with Strawberry Rhubarb Brioche?

Imagine creating a delightful meal that complements the sweet and tangy notes of this beautiful brioche loaf.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits brightens up your table, offering a refreshing balance to the richness of the brioche.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream adds creaminess that enhances the textures of the brioche beautifully.
Vanilla Yogurt: Creamy and slightly tangy yogurt boosts the flavor profile while providing a wholesome lift—perfect for breakfast or dessert!
Mint Tea: The subtle refreshing notes of mint tea nicely contrast with the sweetness of the brioche, creating a comforting drink pairing.
Homemade Jam: A side of your favorite homemade jam can amplify the fruitiness, inviting even more nostalgic flavors to your meal.
Lemonade: A chilled, zesty lemonade will awaken your palate and provide a bright contrast to the brioche’s buttery sweetness, making it perfect for warm days.
Chocolate Drizzle: For those with a sweet tooth, a light drizzle of melted chocolate over the brioche elevates it to a decadent dessert beautifully.
Cheese Platter: A curated selection of cheeses, like creamy brie and sharp cheddar, provides savory elements that play perfectly against the sweetness of the Strawberry Rhubarb Brioche.

Serving these delightful accompaniments will surely complete your dining experience, inviting warmth and joy in every bite.

How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Rhubarb Brioche

Room Temperature: Store your loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain its soft texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Warm slices in the microwave or toaster for the best texture before serving.

Freezer: For extended storage, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm slices before serving.

Reheating: For optimal results, reheat slices in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, restoring that fresh-baked flavor of your Strawberry Rhubarb Brioche.

Tips for the Best Strawberry Rhubarb Brioche

• Fresh Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially the yeast, are fresh for the best rise and flavor in your Strawberry Rhubarb Brioche.

• Proper Cooling: Allow the strawberry-rhubarb filling to cool completely before spreading. This prevents the dough from becoming soggy and maintains the texture.

• Knead Well: Knead the dough thoroughly until it’s smooth and elastic. This develops gluten, which is key for achieving that light, fluffy brioche texture.

• Leave a Border: When adding the filling, remember to leave a ½-inch border around the edges to avoid the filling seeping out while rolling.

• Watch the Bake: Keep an eye on your brioche as it bakes. If it starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes to prevent burning.

Strawberry Rhubarb Brioche Recipe FAQs

What type of strawberries should I use?
You can use fresh or frozen strawberries for this Strawberry Rhubarb Brioche. If using frozen, just ensure they are well-drained and chopped small to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

How should I store my Strawberry Rhubarb Brioche?
Store your brioche in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for the best flavor and softness. If you need to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to 5 days, warming slices in the microwave or toaster before serving.

Can I freeze Strawberry Rhubarb Brioche?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat the slices in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

Why is my brioche dough sticky, and how can I fix it?
A sticky dough can occur if there’s too much moisture or if the flour measurement was off. If you find your dough too sticky to handle, sprinkle in a little extra flour, one tablespoon at a time, while kneading until the desired consistency is achieved. Be careful not to add too much flour, as it could make your brioche tough.

Can I substitute rhubarb with another fruit?
Yes! While rhubarb provides a lovely tartness, you can replace it with other fruits such as apples or peaches. Keep in mind that you might need to adjust the sugar levels in the filling depending on the sweetness of the fruit used.

Is this recipe suitable for special dietary needs?
You can easily adapt this Strawberry Rhubarb Brioche for different dietary needs. For a dairy-free option, substitute the milk with almond or oat milk, and use coconut oil in place of butter. If you’re looking for a vegan version, swap the eggs for flax eggs and ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly.