Mannele (Little Men Brioche)

Mise-en-place

Ingrediënten

De bereidingswijze

Stap voor stap

1. 1

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.

   Ongeveer 2 min

2. 2

   Crumble the fresh yeast into the lukewarm milk and stir gently until dissolved.

   Ongeveer 3 min

   Tip van de kok: If using active dry yeast, proof it in the milk for 5-10 minutes until foamy.

3. 3

   Add the yeast mixture and the eggs to the dry ingredients in the bowl.

   Ongeveer 1 min

4. 4

   Knead the dough by hand or with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for about 10 minutes, until it forms a cohesive mass.

   Ongeveer 10 min

   Tip van de kok: The dough will be quite sticky initially.

5. 5

   Gradually add the softened butter, piece by piece, continuing to knead until the butter is fully incorporated and the dough is smooth and elastic, about another 5-7 minutes.

   Ongeveer 7 min

   Tip van de kok: Ensure each piece of butter is absorbed before adding the next.

6. 6

   Form the dough into a ball, place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.

   Ongeveer 2 uur

   Tip van de kok: A slightly warm oven (turned off) can be a good spot for rising.

7. 7

   Gently punch down the risen dough to release the air.

   Ongeveer 1 min

8. 8

   Divide the dough into 6 equal portions.

   Ongeveer 2 min

   Tip van de kok: For precise portions, weigh the dough.

9. 9

   On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion into an oval shape, then use a knife or a specialized cutter to create the 'mannele' shape, cutting out arms and legs.

   Ongeveer 15 min

   Tip van de kok: You can find mannele cutters online, or simply use a sharp knife and a bit of creativity.

10. 10

    Transfer the shaped mannele to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them.

    Ongeveer 2 min

11. 11

    Cover the mannele loosely with plastic wrap and let them proof again for 30-45 minutes, or until visibly puffy.

    Ongeveer 45 min

12. 12

    Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

    Ongeveer 10 min

13. 13

    In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and milk for the egg wash.

    Ongeveer 1 min

14. 14

    Brush the top of each mannele with the egg wash.

    Ongeveer 2 min

    Tip van de kok: This gives them a beautiful golden crust.

15. 15

    If desired, press two chocolate chips into each mannele for eyes.

    Ongeveer 1 min

16. 16

    Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.

    Ongeveer 15 min

    Tip van de kok: Baking times may vary depending on your oven.

17. 17

    Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack before serving.

    Ongeveer 10 min