Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches Recipe

If you’re searching for a dessert that perfectly balances richness and fluffiness, look no further than these irresistible Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches. Imagine biting into a soft, buttery brioche soaked with luscious homemade vanilla custard, generously dotted with melty mini chocolate chips—this heavenly combination creates a treat that feels elegant yet comfortingly familiar. These Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches are not only delightful to eat but also have a texture and flavor that will make you swoon with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating these brioches is a joy because each ingredient is straightforward yet essential, working harmoniously to build the perfect balance of taste, texture, and appearance. From the creamy custard to the tender dough, every component plays its own delightful part.

• All-purpose flour: Forms the soft, airy base of the brioche dough, giving it structure and lightness.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness to both the dough and custard, enhancing flavors without overpowering.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the dough’s complexity.
• Fresh yeast: Powers the rise of the dough for that signature fluffy texture.
• Eggs: Contribute richness and help bind the dough while adding tenderness.
• Unsalted butter: Brings a luxurious softness and subtle richness to the dough.
• Whole milk: Key to creating the silky vanilla custard, contributing creaminess.
• Butter (for custard): Smooths the custard, adding a melt-in-your-mouth feel.
• Vanilla pod: Infuses the custard with enchanting vanilla aroma and flavor.
• Egg yolks: Thicken the custard and enrich its golden color.
• Cornstarch: Helps the custard set beautifully, achieving the perfect consistency.
• Mini chocolate chips: Add bursts of chocolatey goodness with every bite.
• Sugar syrup: Glazes the finished brioches, providing a shiny, sweet finish.
• Egg wash: Gives the brioches a gorgeous, golden-brown crust when baked.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches

Step 1: Prepare the Brioche Dough

Start by mixing the flour, sugar, salt, and crumbled fresh yeast in your stand mixer bowl. Then add the beaten eggs and let the paddle attachment work its magic at medium speed for a few minutes until the mixture becomes thick and silky. Gradually add in the softened butter, kneading continuously until the dough feels dense and slightly sticky. This slow process, though a little time-consuming, is crucial for that famous brioche tenderness and structure.

Step 2: First Rise

Cover your dough with plastic wrap and set it aside in a warm spot to rise for about two hours, or until it has doubled in size. This step allows the yeast to develop flavor and fluffiness, setting up your brioches for success.

Step 3: Make the Vanilla Custard

Heat whole milk and butter gently in a saucepan with the vanilla pod and seeds until bubbling. While the milk warms, whisk egg yolks with sugar, cornstarch, and flour in a bowl. Slowly pour the hot milk over the egg mixture while whisking vigorously to prevent curdling. Return the mixture to the stove, stirring constantly until thickened into a smooth, luxurious custard. Cover it with plastic wrap to cool in the fridge—it needs to be fully chilled before assembling.

Step 4: Shape the Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches

Roll your risen dough into a large rectangle, then lavish half with the chilled vanilla custard. Sprinkle mini chocolate chips generously over the custard layer, then fold the dough over like closing a book. Cut this folded dough into 8 equal rectangles and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let the shaped brioches rest and rise again for another two hours, allowing the dough to relax and puff beautifully.

Step 5: Brush and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Brush the brioches generously with a mixture of one beaten egg and one egg yolk to achieve that signature glossy, golden-brown finish after baking. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the tops are beautifully colored and the kitchen fills with a warm, inviting aroma. While they bake, prepare a simple sugar syrup by dissolving sugar into boiling water. Once baked, brush the syrup over the brioches to add sweetness and a lovely sheen.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches

Garnishes

Sprinkling a light dusting of powdered sugar over the brioches right before serving adds an elegant touch. You could also add a few extra mini chocolate chips or a small dollop of whipped cream to elevate the presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

These brioches shine alongside fresh seasonal fruit like strawberries or raspberries, whose natural tartness perfectly offsets the rich custard. A cup of rich coffee or a creamy latte makes the ideal companion to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For an extra-special brunch, slice the brioches in half and lightly toast them, then drizzle with warm chocolate sauce or honey. You can even serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a delightful dessert twist that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches left over, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain their softness and freshness.

Freezing

These brioches freeze very well. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing. They’ll stay fresh for up to a month, making them perfect for preparing ahead.

Reheating

To enjoy frozen brioches at their best, thaw at room temperature and then warm them gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 to 7 minutes. This will bring back their freshly-baked texture and revive that irresistible custard creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?

Yes, you can substitute dry yeast, but remember to use about one-third of the amount of fresh yeast called for (around 3.5g). Dissolve it in warm water before adding it to your dough for the best rise.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for the custard?

There are options like coconut milk or almond milk that can replace whole milk, but the custard’s texture and richness may vary. You might also want to try a dairy-free butter substitute to maintain creaminess.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! After kneading the dough, you can refrigerate it overnight instead of the first rise. Just bring it to room temperature before shaping and proceeding with the recipe.

Why is the dough sticky even after kneading?

A slightly sticky dough is normal for a brioche because of its high butter and egg content. Avoid adding extra flour as it could make the brioches tough. Use flour lightly when shaping to prevent sticking instead.

Can I add other mix-ins besides chocolate chips?

Definitely! Raisins, chopped nuts, or dried fruits all work beautifully and offer your own personal twist to the Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches. Just adjust quantities as needed to keep the dough manageable.

Final Thoughts

These Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches are a true celebration of flavor and texture wrapped into one delightful package. Whether you’re serving them for a weekend brunch or a special treat any day of the week, their buttery richness and creamy custard will keep you coming back for more. Give this recipe a try—you’ll soon understand why these brioches have become a personal favorite and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

“`

Print