Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion, then these Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches are just what you need! This recipe is a family favorite in my home, perfect for lazy Sunday mornings or festive gatherings. The soft, pillowy brioche dough combined with rich vanilla custard and sweet chocolate chips creates a mouthwatering experience that everyone will love.

What makes this recipe truly special is how it balances indulgence with the joy of baking. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out in the kitchen, you’ll appreciate the simple process and the heavenly aroma that fills your home as they bake. Trust me, once you try these brioches, they’ll become a staple in your recipe collection!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you’ll find that making these brioches is a fun and rewarding experience.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love chocolate chips, and the silky custard makes these treats irresistible for everyone.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the custard in advance to save time on busy mornings or brunches with friends.
• Perfectly Indulgent: Each bite is packed with flavor, making them a delightful way to start your day or end a meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches requires simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Here are a few fun variations you can try:

• Change the Chocolate: Swap mini chocolate chips for white chocolate or even dried fruit for a different flavor twist.
• Add Spices: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into your brioche dough for added warmth and depth.
• Fruit Filling: Instead of custard, use jam or fresh fruit to create fruity brioches that burst with flavor.
• Nutty Surprise: Fold in some chopped nuts like hazelnuts or almonds for an extra crunch.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches

Step 1: Prepare the Brioche Dough

Start by combining the flour, sugar, salt, and crumbled yeast in your stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Mix briefly to combine. Adding these dry ingredients first allows the yeast to activate properly when mixed with wet ingredients.

Then, add the beaten eggs and knead at medium speed for 2-3 minutes until everything comes together into a thick dough. Gradually incorporate the softened butter while continuing to knead until the dough is dense and slightly sticky—this may take up to 20 minutes. A well-kneaded dough is essential for achieving that light and airy texture we love in brioches!

Step 2: First Rise

Once your dough is ready, cover it with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 2 hours or until it has doubled in size. This fermentation process develops flavor and gives your brioche that lovely fluffiness.

Step 3: Prepare the Custard

In this step, heat the milk and butter together with the vanilla pod and its seeds until bubbling; then remove from heat. In another bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and flour. Gradually add hot milk to this mixture while whisking continuously. It’s important to do this slowly to avoid scrambling your eggs! Once combined, return it all to heat until thickened into creamy custard.

Step 4: Shape the Brioches

Roll out your brioche dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread half of it generously with cooled custard and sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top before folding over to cover. Cut into eight equal rectangles—these will be your individual brioches—and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let them rise again for about 2 hours; this second rise is key for achieving fluffy brioches.

Step 5: Brush and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Brush each brioche with the beaten egg mixture before placing them in the oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown—watch them closely as they turn beautifully golden!

Step 6: Prepare Sugar Syrup

While they bake, bring water and sugar to boil until dissolved for a lovely glaze. After pulling them from the oven, brush each brioche with warm syrup for that glossy finish that makes them look as good as they taste!

Step 7: Serve

Let those beautiful brioches cool completely before serving them up at breakfast or brunch! Trust me; they’re best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days if you manage not to eat them all at once!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches

To ensure your Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches turn out perfectly, here are some handy tips to guide you along the way!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh yeast and high-quality butter. Fresh ingredients significantly impact the flavor and texture of your brioche, resulting in a light and fluffy pastry.

• Knead Thoroughly: Take your time when kneading the dough. Proper kneading develops gluten, which gives the brioches their wonderful structure. A well-kneaded dough will also be smoother and less sticky.

• Patience with Rising: Don’t rush the rising process! Allowing the dough to rise until it doubles in size is crucial for achieving that airy texture. Warm environments can help speed up this process.

• Cool Custard Completely: Be sure to cool your custard before spreading it on the dough. A warm custard can make the dough too soft and difficult to handle, whereas a cooled custard provides a perfect filling consistency.

• Experiment with Fillings: While chocolate chips are delightful, feel free to experiment with other fillings like dried fruits or nuts. This allows you to customize each batch according to personal preferences!

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches

These delectable brioche treats make a stunning addition to any breakfast or brunch table. Their golden color and rich flavors are best highlighted through thoughtful presentation.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and elegance, enhancing both appearance and taste.
• Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries for a burst of color and freshness that complements the rich custard.
• Mint Leaves: A sprig of mint not only adds a pop of color but also brings a refreshing hint that pairs beautifully with sweet pastries.

Side Dishes

• Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad made with seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich brioche.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and honey for a creamy and crunchy side that balances the sweetness of the brioches.
• Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein to your brunch spread, creating a satisfying balance between savory and sweet flavors.
• Coffee or Tea: Pair these brioches with a warm cup of coffee or tea to enhance your breakfast experience, as both beverages complement the chocolatey goodness perfectly.

Enjoy crafting these delightful Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches! Each bite is sure to bring warmth and joy—perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

Preparing Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches is a delightful activity that can easily fit into your meal prep routine. These sweet treats not only make for a fantastic breakfast or brunch option but can also be made in advance, saving you time during busy mornings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover brioches in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They are best enjoyed within 2 days for optimal freshness.
• If you’d like to keep them longer, consider freezing them.

Freezing

• Allow the brioches to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each brioche individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 1 month without losing quality.

Reheating

• To reheat, remove from the freezer and let thaw at room temperature.
• For best results, warm them in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 5-10 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can use the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, but this may make them a bit softer.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches that might help you during your baking journey!

Can I use different types of chocolate chips in Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches?

Absolutely! While mini chocolate chips are recommended for ease of filling, feel free to mix it up with dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate chips. Each will add a delicious twist to your brioche!

How can I make my Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches even more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor of your brioches, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. You could also experiment by incorporating nuts or dried fruits into the custard filling for added texture and taste.

Can I prepare the custard in advance for Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches?

Yes! The custard can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble your brioches. Just remember to cover it tightly with plastic wrap so it doesn’t form a skin.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about making these Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches! This recipe is special because it combines rich flavors and a tender texture that is sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. Enjoy the process of baking and savoring these delightful treats with family or friends. Happy baking, and I can’t wait for you to try this recipe!