Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines a rich, fluffy brioche with creamy vanilla custard and melty chocolate chips, you’ve come to the right place! These Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches are not just pastries; they’re little bites of happiness that bring comfort and joy to any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weekday morning or a special family gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make, even if you’re new to baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistibly Delicious: The combination of sweet chocolate chips and velvety vanilla custard creates a flavor explosion that everyone will adore.
• Family-Friendly Fun: Get the kids involved in the kitchen! Shaping and filling the brioches is a fun activity for all ages.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the custard in advance, making your baking day even smoother.
• Perfect for Any Time: Enjoy these brioches at breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet afternoon snack. They’re versatile enough to fit any meal plan!
• Impressive Yet Simple: With just a few simple steps, you can create something that looks and tastes like it came from a bakery.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches come together with simple, wholesome ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what you 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

This recipe is flexible and allows for some creative twists! Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• Change the Chocolate: Use white chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks for a different flavor profile.
• Add Fruit: Incorporate fresh berries or sliced bananas into the filling for a fruity twist!
• Spice it Up: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for added warmth and spice.
• Nutty Goodness: Toss in some chopped nuts like hazelnuts or almonds with the chocolate chips for extra crunch.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches

Step 1: Prepare the Brioche Dough

First things first! In your stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and crumbled yeast. Mixing them briefly helps everything come together before adding moisture. Then add in those beaten eggs and knead at medium speed for about 2-3 minutes. You want this dough thick and smooth because it will hold all that delicious custard later on!

Step 2: Incorporate Butter

Now comes the buttery magic! Gradually add in your softened butter. Knead until your dough becomes dense, smooth, and slightly sticky—this could take up to 20 minutes but trust me; it’s worth it! A well-kneaded dough leads to fluffy brioches.

Step 3: First Rise

Cover your dough with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for about 2 hours. We want it to double in size so that our brioches are light and airy.

Step 4: Prepare the Custard

While waiting on the dough, let’s whip up that luscious custard! In a saucepan over medium heat, warm your milk with butter while adding the vanilla pod and seeds. Once bubbling, take it off heat! In another bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and flour. Slowly pour that hot milk mixture over while whisking continuously—this helps avoid scrambling those eggs!

Step 5: Thicken the Custard

Return your mixture back to low heat; whisk until it thickens into creamy custard perfection. Once ready, transfer it into a bowl and make sure to cover with plastic wrap touching its surface before refrigerating until cool.

Step 6: Shape the Brioches

Roll out your risen dough into a large rectangle. Spread half of your cooled custard over one side of the dough evenly. Sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top before folding over the other half of dough—like tucking in a cozy blanket!

Step 7: Cut & Rise Again

Cut this lovely filled dough into eight equal rectangles. Place them onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them rise again for about two hours until puffed up.

Step 8: Brush & Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Brush each risen brioche with an egg yolk mixture for that beautiful golden finish when baked. Pop them in for about 10-12 minutes until they are golden brown—just look at those beauties!

Step 9: Prepare Sugar Syrup & Finish

In a small saucepan over medium heat, boil water with sugar until dissolved—it’ll give our brioches that glossy shine! Once baked perfectly golden brown, brush them generously with warm syrup.

Step 10: Serve & Enjoy!

Let these scrumptious brioches cool completely before serving. Enjoy them warm as part of breakfast or brunch—they’re sure to be a hit at any table!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches

Making these delightful brioches can be a rewarding experience, so here are some tips to help you create the perfect batch!

• Use fresh yeast: Fresh yeast provides better rise and flavor compared to dry yeast. It helps in achieving that light and airy texture we all love in brioches.

• Knead thoroughly: Kneading the dough well is essential for gluten development, which gives the brioche its signature fluffy structure. The more you knead, the better the texture will be.

• Chill your custard: Allowing the custard to cool completely before using it not only enhances its flavor but also makes it easier to spread. A chilled custard prevents the dough from becoming soggy.

• Pay attention to rising time: Be patient during both rises! The dough needs adequate time to double in size for optimal fluffiness. If your kitchen is cooler, it may take longer, so just keep an eye on it.

• Experiment with fillings: While mini chocolate chips are delicious, don’t hesitate to try other fillings like nuts or dried fruits for a unique twist. This allows you to personalize your brioches according to your taste preferences!

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches

Presenting your Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches beautifully can make them even more enjoyable. Whether it’s at a gathering or just for yourself, here are some serving ideas that will wow anyone who sees (and tastes) them!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and elegance.
• Fresh berries: Serve alongside a handful of fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a burst of color and tartness.
• Mint leaves: A few sprigs of mint can brighten up the plate and add a refreshing aroma.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits complements the rich flavors of the brioches and adds a refreshing contrast.
• Yogurt parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and fruit creates a creamy texture that balances the sweetness of the brioches.
• Coffee or tea: These warm beverages pair beautifully with sweet pastries and enhance their flavors, making for an inviting breakfast or brunch experience.
• Smoothies: A refreshing smoothie made with bananas, spinach, and almond milk provides a nutritious side while keeping things light and vibrant.

With these ideas and tips in hand, you’re all set to indulge in your homemade Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches! Enjoy every fluffy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful treat any day of the week without the fuss.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep any leftover brioches in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, consider freezing them.

Freezing

• Allow the brioches to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each brioche tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Reheating

• To reheat, thaw the brioches at room temperature for a few hours or overnight.
• Warm them in an oven preheated to 350°F (180°C) for about 5-7 minutes for that freshly-baked taste.
• Alternatively, you can microwave each brioche for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute eggs in the brioche dough with a flaxseed meal or chia seed mixture. For the custard, using a plant-based milk combined with cornstarch can help achieve a similar creamy texture.

How do I store Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches?

Store your brioches in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them wrapped individually.

What is the best way to enjoy Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches?

Enjoy them fresh out of the oven topped with a dusting of powdered sugar or alongside your favorite cup of coffee or tea!

Can I add other fillings to my Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fillings like fruit preserves or nuts to customize your brioches according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches! They are not just a delicious treat; they are also a great way to bring warmth and sweetness into your home. Whether enjoyed at breakfast or as an afternoon snack, they’re bound to put a smile on your face. Happy baking!