Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the richness of chocolate with the smoothness of vanilla custard, then these Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches are just what you need! They are fluffy, sweet, and perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family brunch or a festive gathering with friends, these brioches will surely impress everyone around the table. The combination of buttery brioche dough and creamy custard makes them incredibly special—and trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a favorite in your home too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Unique: The blend of chocolate chips and vanilla custard creates a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and everyday ingredients, making these brioches is a fun kitchen adventure!
• Perfect for Sharing: These treats are great for family gatherings or brunches, giving everyone the chance to indulge in something special.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the custard in advance and assemble your brioches when you’re ready—perfect for busy mornings!
• Visually Appealing: Their golden-brown tops and glossy finish make them look as good as they taste!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches are made with wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to bring this delicious recipe to life!

For the Brioche Dough:

• 2 cups + 1 tablespoon (250g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons (30g) sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 10g fresh yeast, crumbled
• 3 large eggs (150g), beaten
• 2/3 cup (165g) unsalted butter, softened and diced

For the Vanilla Custard (Pastry Cream):

• 1 cup + 2 teaspoons (25 cl) whole milk
• 1 teaspoon butter
• 1 vanilla pod
• 2 egg yolks
• 1/4 cup (50g) sugar
• 3 tablespoons (20g) cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

For the Filling and Brushing:

• 3/4 cup (120g) mini chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup (50g) sugar
• 1/4 cup (50 ml) water
• 1 large egg + 1 yolk, beaten

Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with different flavors and fillings that suit your taste.

• Swap the chocolate: If you’re not a huge fan of chocolate chips, try using dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a fruity twist.
• Change up the custard flavor: Add some almond extract or citrus zest to your custard for a refreshing flavor boost.
• Go nutty: Sprinkle in some chopped nuts like pecans or hazelnuts along with the chocolate chips for added crunch.
• Glaze it up: Instead of sugar syrup, consider drizzling some warm melted chocolate over your brioches for an extra indulgent treat.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches

Step 1: Prepare the Brioche Dough

In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and crumbled yeast. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures that every bite of your brioche will be perfectly balanced. Once combined, add in the beaten eggs and knead at medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the dough starts to come together.

Next, gradually add in the softened butter while kneading until you have a dense and smooth dough. This step is crucial because well-kneaded dough gives you that light texture we all love in brioche. It can take up to 20 minutes of kneading—don’t rush it!

Step 2: First Rise

Cover your dough with plastic wrap and let it rise for about 2 hours or until it doubles in size. This fermentation process allows the yeast to work its magic, creating air pockets that will give us those fluffy brioches.

Step 3: Prepare the Custard

While your dough is rising, let’s whip up some delicious vanilla custard! In a saucepan over medium heat, combine milk and butter along with the split vanilla pod and its seeds. When it starts bubbling, remove it from heat so we can avoid scalding our milk.

In another bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and flour. Gradually pour in the hot milk mixture while whisking continuously—this technique helps prevent scrambled eggs in our custard! Then return this mixture to low heat until it thickens into creamy goodness. Remember to cover it with plastic wrap touching its surface before cooling; this prevents a skin from forming.

Step 4: Shape the Brioches

Once your dough has risen beautifully, roll it out into a large rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Spread half of your cooled custard over one side of the dough and sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top—this is where all that yummy flavor comes from! Fold over the other side of dough to cover everything up.

Now cut this filled rectangle into 8 equal pieces and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Allow these beauties to rise again for another 2 hours; they deserve that little extra love!

Step 5: Brush and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Before baking them off into golden perfection, brush each brioche with an egg wash made from one large egg mixed with an extra yolk. This step gives our brioches their shiny finish! Bake them for about 10-12 minutes until they’re golden brown—a delightful sight indeed!

Step 6: Prepare Sugar Syrup

While those brioches are baking away beautifully, let’s make our sugar syrup! In a small saucepan over medium heat, bring water and sugar to boil until dissolved. A quick glaze adds an irresistible glossy finish after baking!

Step 7: Serve

Once baked perfectly golden brown, brush each brioche generously with warm sugar syrup while still warm—it makes them shine! Allow them to cool completely before diving into these sweet treats. Enjoy them fresh as part of breakfast or brunch—you may find yourself reaching for seconds!

These Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches are sure to become a cherished recipe in your kitchen. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches

Making these delightful brioches can be a rewarding experience! Here are some pro tips to ensure your baking adventure is a success.

• Use Fresh Yeast: Fresh yeast can significantly improve the texture and flavor of your brioche. Its potency helps the dough rise beautifully, creating those soft, airy layers we all love.

• Knead Thoroughly: Ensuring your dough is well-kneaded is essential for developing gluten, which gives the brioche its characteristic structure. A smooth and slightly sticky dough will yield the best results.

• Cool Custard Completely: Allowing the vanilla custard to cool thoroughly before filling the dough prevents it from making the brioches soggy. This step ensures that each bite remains fluffy and delicious.

• Don’t Skip the Sugar Syrup: Brushing your baked brioches with sugar syrup not only adds a glossy finish but also enhances sweetness and keeps them moist. It’s an easy way to elevate your pastries!

• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to get creative! While chocolate chips are a classic choice, you could also add nuts, dried fruits, or even a swirl of fruit preserves for a delicious twist.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches

Presenting your Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches can make them even more appealing. Here are some ideas on how to serve them up beautifully!

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a sweet touch and visually enhances your brioches.
• Fresh Berries: Placing a few fresh berries on the plate not only adds color but also complements the sweetness of the brioches with a bit of tartness.

Side Dishes

• Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a refreshing side that contrasts nicely with the richness of the brioches.
• Fruit Salad: A bowl of mixed seasonal fruits provides brightness and freshness, making it a perfect complement to your sweet treat.
• Coffee or Tea: Pairing these brioches with a warm cup of coffee or tea can create a cozy breakfast or brunch atmosphere.
• Smoothie Bowl: A smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds offers additional nutrients while balancing out the indulgence of the pastries.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your homemade Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make the dough and custard in advance, allowing you to enjoy these delightful treats any day of the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover brioches in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them (see below).

Freezing

• Allow the baked brioches to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each brioche tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen brioches, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and warm the brioches for about 5-7 minutes until they are warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches that might help you along the way!

Can I use a different type of chocolate in Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with dark or white chocolate chips, or even try using chocolate chunks for a different texture.

How long will my Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches last?

If stored correctly, your brioches will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you freeze them, they can last for up to 3 months!

Is it possible to make the custard ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the vanilla custard a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.

Can I substitute any ingredients in this recipe?

You’re welcome to swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend if needed, and you can also try using dairy-free butter and milk alternatives if you’re avoiding dairy.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches as much as I do! They are truly special with their rich custard filling and delightful chocolate surprise. Don’t hesitate to share your creations or any twists you put on this recipe. Enjoy every bite, and happy baking!