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1
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine flour, sugar, and yeast on low speed using the dough hook attachment.
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2
Add milk, 5 eggs, and salt, mixing until the dry ingredients become moistened.
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3
Increase mixer speed and beat until the dough comes together.
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4
Slowly add butter, and continue mixing until the dough detaches from the side and bottom of the bowl.
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5
Transfer the dough to a separate bowl and cover tightly with plastic wrap.
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6
Allow the dough to rest in a warm place until it almost doubles in size, about 1 1/2 hours.
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7
Gently deflate the dough; press a piece of plastic wrap against its surface to prevent a skin from forming, and refrigerate for 6 hours.
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8
After refrigeration is complete, using a rolling pin, roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness.
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9
Cut the dough into an 8-inch diameter, and place on a baking sheet.
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10
Cover with plastic wrap and allow the dough to rise in a warm place.
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11
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
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12
Remove the plastic wrap from the risen dough and gently apply a coat of egg wash. Sprinkle some rock sugar over the top.
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13
Place on a baking sheet and bake for approximately 12 to 15 minutes, or until the dough is puffed and golden.
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14
Transfer the dough to a cooling rack and let cool to room temperature.
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15
Cream:
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16
In a small saucepan, bring milk and vanilla bean to a gentle boil over medium heat.
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17
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the yolks, sugar, and cornstarch.
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18
Whisking all the while, very slowly drizzle a quarter of the hot milk into the yolks.
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19
Still whisking, pour the yolk mixture into the saucepan, and over high heat, whisk vigorously without stopping and bring to a boil.
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20
Boil for about 1 to 2 minutes, and then transfer to a large bowl.
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21
Keep stirring until the mixture reaches 100 to 120 degrees F, or slightly warmer than room temperature.
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22
Add softened butter, orange water, and kirsch.
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23
When completely combined, gently fold in whipped cream.
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24
Assembly:
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25
Cut brioche in half horizontally.
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26
Smooth cream mixture over bottom layer, and place second layer gently on top.
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27
Serve.
