Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the silky smoothness of vanilla custard, then these Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches are just what you need! This recipe has become a cherished favorite in my home, perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings. The soft, fluffy brioches filled with luscious custard and mini chocolate chips create a moment of pure joy with every bite. Plus, it’s an excellent way to impress friends and family without spending all day in the kitchen!

Whether it’s a busy weekend morning or a special occasion, these brioches are sure to bring smiles to everyone around the table. Trust me, once you make them, they’ll quickly become your go-to recipe for any gathering!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, anyone can whip up these delicious brioches!
• Family-friendly: Both kids and adults will enjoy the sweet combination of chocolate and vanilla in each fluffy bite.
• Great for meal prep: You can prepare the custard ahead of time, making it easy to assemble when you’re ready to bake.
• Impressive presentation: Serve these brioches warm from the oven for a stunning centerpiece at your next brunch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches requires just a handful of wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything we need for this delightful recipe!

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 your brioches to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

• Add some zest: Incorporate some orange or lemon zest into the custard for a refreshing citrus twist.
• Change up the filling: Swap mini chocolate chips for dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for a fruity variation.
• Try different frostings: Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and water instead of sugar syrup for a different finish.
• Make it nutty: Add chopped nuts such as almonds or hazelnuts alongside the chocolate chips for added crunch.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches

Step 1: Prepare the Brioche Dough

Start by combining flour, sugar, salt, and crumbled yeast in a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures that everything is evenly distributed. Then add in the beaten eggs and knead at medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the dough thickens and smooths out. Gradually mix in the softened butter while kneading until you achieve a dense, slightly sticky dough—this might take up to 20 minutes but is crucial for that light texture!

Step 2: First Rise

Once your dough is ready, cover it with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size—this should take about 2 hours. This step is essential as it allows air bubbles to form, which will make your brioches light and fluffy.

Step 3: Prepare the Custard

While waiting for the dough to rise, let’s whip up some vanilla custard! In a saucepan over medium heat, combine milk and butter along with your vanilla pod and scraped seeds. When it starts bubbling, remove from heat. In another bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and flour before slowly mixing in your hot milk mixture while whisking continuously. Return this mixture back to heat until it thickens into creamy custard. Once done, cool it down completely before using. This process not only makes delicious custard but also fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas!

Step 4: Shape the Brioches

After both dough and custard are ready, roll out your brioche dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread half of the cooled custard over part of this rectangle followed by sprinkling mini chocolate chips on top. Fold over the dough to cover this filling before cutting it into eight equal rectangles. Transfer them onto parchment-lined baking sheets—this is where they’ll rise again!

Step 5: Brush and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). After letting those beautiful shapes rise for another 2 hours until puffy, brush them gently using an egg wash made from one egg mixed with an extra yolk. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown! The aroma wafting through your home is simply irresistible.

Step 6: Prepare Sugar Syrup

While waiting on those lovely brioches to bake, let’s prepare our finishing touch—a sugar syrup! In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine water and sugar; stir until dissolved completely. Once your baked brioches are out of the oven and still warm from their golden transformation, brush them lightly with this syrup to create that perfect glossy finish.

Step 7: Serve

Now comes one of my favorite parts—serving! Allow your brioches to cool completely so they set nicely before serving them up at breakfast or brunch gatherings. Enjoy every delectable bite filled with creamy custard goodness paired perfectly with sweet chocolate chips!

Remember that practice makes perfect; don’t get discouraged if they don’t come out exactly right on your first try! Before long you’ll be sharing these delightful Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches with everyone you know!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches

Making Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches can be a delightful experience, and a few handy tips can elevate your baking game!

• Use Fresh Yeast: Fresh yeast provides a superior rise compared to dry yeast. If you can find it, your brioches will turn out light and fluffy.

• Knead Thoroughly: The dough needs to be well-kneaded for the right texture. A smooth and elastic dough ensures that your brioches will have that perfect airy structure.

• Temperature Matters: Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature. This encourages better mixing and helps activate the yeast more effectively, resulting in a well-risen dough.

• Cool the Custard Properly: To avoid a skin forming on your custard, cover it with plastic wrap directly on the surface while it cools. This ensures a silky-smooth filling that complements the brioches beautifully.

• Don’t Rush the Rising Time: Allowing enough time for both rises is crucial. Patience leads to lighter brioches, as the dough develops flavor and texture during these periods.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches

Presenting your Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches can be as delightful as making them! Here are some ideas to make your serving special.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and elegance, making your brioches look even more inviting.
• Fresh Berries: Serve alongside fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries for a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate and custard flavors.

Side Dishes

• Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad complements the richness of the brioches perfectly, adding brightness and freshness to your breakfast or brunch spread.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer some Greek yogurt with honey and granola for a creamy side dish that contrasts nicely with the soft texture of the brioches.
• Herbal Tea: Pairing these sweet treats with a fragrant herbal tea creates a soothing experience, ideal for leisurely mornings.
• Coffee or Espresso: A classic pairing; coffee enhances the flavors of chocolate and vanilla, making every bite feel indulgent.

Enjoy serving these delightful brioches at any gathering or simply savor them with loved ones over breakfast!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioche recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful treat any day of the week without the last-minute rush. Here’s how to store them properly for maximum freshness!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the brioches to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Wrap each brioche individually in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped brioches in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Store in the freezer for up to 1 month for best quality.

Reheating

• For a quick reheat, microwave a brioche on medium power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, you can warm them in an oven preheated to 350°F (180°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

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

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with dark, milk, or even white chocolate chips based on your preference. Each variation will bring its unique flavor while maintaining that delightful custard filling.

How can I make the custard for my Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches ahead of time?

You can prepare the custard up to two days in advance. Just be sure to cover it with plastic wrap touching the surface to prevent a film from forming and refrigerate until you are ready to use it.

What makes these Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches special?

These brioches stand out due to their soft, buttery texture combined with rich vanilla custard and sweet chocolate chips. They’re not only a treat but also a heartfelt way to start your day or impress guests at brunch!

Can I substitute any ingredients in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute unsweetened almond milk or oat milk for whole milk and use dairy-free butter alternatives if desired. The recipe remains versatile while accommodating various dietary needs.

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 tender, fluffy texture and creamy filling. Whether it’s breakfast or brunch, they are sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with me—happy baking!