Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that will brighten up your mornings, then these Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches are just what you need! Imagine pulling warm, fluffy brioches out of the oven, filled with creamy vanilla custard and dotted with rich chocolate chips. This recipe is a cherished favorite in my kitchen because it combines the indulgent flavors of pastry with the comfort of home baking. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weekends, these brioches are sure to impress everyone at the breakfast table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and wholesome ingredients, creating these treats is a breeze.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike can’t resist the combination of chocolate and creamy custard.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the custard in advance and save time on busy mornings.
• Deliciously versatile: Enjoy these brioches fresh or store them for later—either way, they taste amazing!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create these delightful brioches. You might already have many of them in your pantry!

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 wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative and customize it to suit your taste. Here are some fun ideas:

• Change up the chocolate: Use dark chocolate or white chocolate chips for a different flavor twist.
• Add fruits: Toss in some fresh berries or banana slices for an extra fruity touch.
• Go nutty: Mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
• Flavor it up: Experiment by adding spices like cinnamon or cardamom to the brioche dough.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches

Step 1: Prepare the Brioche Dough

Start by mixing together your dry ingredients: flour, sugar, salt, and crumbled yeast. Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment makes this step easy! Once combined, add in your beaten eggs and knead until you have a thick and smooth dough. Gradually incorporate softened butter until everything comes together into a dense and slightly sticky dough. Be patient here; kneading well is crucial to achieving that lovely brioche texture!

Step 2: First Rise

Cover your dough with plastic wrap and let it rise for about 2 hours until doubled in size. This step allows the yeast to work its magic—creating air pockets that will make your brioches light and fluffy.

Step 3: Prepare the Custard

While waiting for the dough to rise, let’s make that luscious vanilla custard! Heat milk and butter in a saucepan with a vanilla pod inside. Once bubbling, remove from heat. In another bowl, whisk egg yolks with sugar, cornstarch, and flour until well mixed. Gradually pour in your hot milk while whisking continuously—it helps prevent curdling! Return this mixture to heat until it thickens into custard. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap touching the surface so it doesn’t form a skin.

Step 4: Shape the Brioches

Once your dough has risen beautifully, roll it out into a large rectangle. Spread half of it with cooled custard and sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top. Fold over the other half of the dough to cover this delicious filling. Cut into eight equal rectangles and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet before letting them rise again for about two hours.

Step 5: Brush and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Brush each risen brioche with a mixture of beaten egg and yolk for that lovely golden finish when baked. Pop them in the oven for 10-12 minutes until they reach a beautiful golden brown color.

Step 6: Prepare the Sugar Syrup

While those brioches are baking away, bring water and sugar to boil in a small saucepan until dissolved. This syrup will give your brioches a shiny finish once they’re done.

Step 7: Serve

When your brioches are baked to perfection, brush them with warm sugar syrup for that glossy look! Allow them to cool completely before serving—though I won’t blame you if you sneak one while they’re still warm! Enjoy these delightful Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches as part of your breakfast or brunch; they’re sure to bring smiles all around!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches

Baking these delightful brioches is a joyful experience, and with a few extra tips, you can ensure they turn out perfect every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh yeast and high-quality chocolate chips make all the difference in flavor and texture. They ensure your brioches rise beautifully and have a rich taste.

• Knead the Dough Thoroughly: Kneading the dough well develops gluten, which is essential for achieving that soft, airy texture characteristic of brioche. Don’t rush this step; it can take up to 20 minutes of kneading.

• Monitor Rising Times: The rising times are crucial for developing flavor and texture. If your kitchen is cold, consider placing the dough in a warm spot or using an oven set to low heat (with the light on) to help it rise effectively.

• Cool the Custard Completely: Allowing the custard to cool fully before spreading it on the dough prevents it from melting away during baking. This keeps your filling intact and ensures each bite is filled with creamy goodness.

• Brush with Sugar Syrup Right After Baking: Brushing the warm brioches with sugar syrup gives them a beautiful gloss and adds a touch of sweetness, enhancing their visual appeal and taste.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches

When it comes to serving your Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches, presentation can elevate this delightful treat from ordinary to extraordinary! Here are some ideas to make your brioches shine at your next breakfast or brunch gathering.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness without overpowering the flavors.

• Fresh Berries: Add a handful of fresh raspberries or strawberries on top for a burst of color and freshness that complements the rich custard.

• Mint Leaves: A few fresh mint leaves not only enhance presentation but also add a refreshing aroma that pairs beautifully with chocolate.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the brioches. It’s vibrant, nutritious, and lightens up the meal.

• Greek Yogurt with Honey: The creaminess of Greek yogurt drizzled with honey provides a protein-packed side that balances out the sweetness of the brioches perfectly.

• Smoothie Bowl: A colorful smoothie bowl topped with granola and seeds makes for a fun, nutritious side dish that adds variety to your breakfast spread.

• Chai or Herbal Tea: Pairing your brioches with chai or herbal tea creates a comforting beverage option that complements their flavors beautifully, making each bite even more enjoyable.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re well on your way to creating an unforgettable experience with your Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches! Enjoy every delicious moment!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make the dough and custard ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy fresh brioches whenever you desire.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover brioches in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to 2 days.
• If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them.

Freezing

• Allow the brioches to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each brioche 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 from frozen, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
• Bake the brioches for about 10-12 minutes or until warmed through.
• For a quick microwave option, heat each brioche for about 15-20 seconds, but be cautious as this may make them slightly soft.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches:

Can I use a different filling for the Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the mini chocolate chips with other mix-ins like dried fruits, nuts, or even different flavored chocolate chips. The custard pairs beautifully with many options!

How do I ensure my Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches rise properly?

Make sure your yeast is fresh and active. A warm environment helps the dough rise effectively, so find a cozy spot in your kitchen or use an oven with just the light on.

Can I prepare the Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the brioche dough and custard in advance. Just store them separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to shape and bake your brioches.

What’s the best way to serve Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches?

These delightful brioches are best served fresh. Enjoy them warm as part of breakfast or brunch, perhaps paired with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to try making these delightful Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches! They’re not only delicious but also bring warmth and joy to any gathering or quiet morning at home. Don’t hesitate to share your experience after baking them—I’d love to hear how they turn out for you! Happy baking!