1. Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, mix the warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of the sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
2. Mix the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the flour, the remaining sugar, and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture and beaten eggs to the flour. Mix until a rough dough forms.
- With the mixer on low, add the softened butter a piece at a time, waiting until each piece is almost fully incorporated before adding the next.
3. Knead the Dough:
- Continue to knead the dough for about 10 minutes in the stand mixer on a low setting, or turn out onto a floured surface and knead by hand. The dough should be smooth, elastic, and slightly sticky.
- If the dough is too sticky to handle, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much, as it will make the rolls dense.
4. First Rise:
- Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, turning it to coat all sides with oil. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours.
5. Shape the Rolls:
- Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 12 equal pieces.
- Shape each piece into a ball and place them in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish or on a baking sheet, leaving some space between each roll for expansion.
6. Second Rise:
- Cover the shaped rolls with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let them rise again in a warm place until puffy and nearly doubled in size, about 1 hour.
7. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
8. Apply Egg Wash:
- Gently brush the risen rolls with the egg wash. This will give them a beautiful golden color and shiny finish. If desired, sprinkle pearl sugar on top for extra sweetness and crunch.
9. Bake:
- Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
10. Finishing Touches:
- If you like, brush the baked rolls with simple syrup as soon as they come out of the oven for a sweet, glossy finish.
- Let the rolls cool on a wire rack before serving.
Enjoy your Milk Brioche Rolls warm, with butter, jam, or as the perfect accompaniment to any meal. These rolls are so rich and tender, they’re sure to become a new favorite.