Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and vanilla, look no further than these Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches. This recipe is a family favorite in my house because it brings the warmth of freshly baked goods to our breakfast table. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a cozy weekend, these brioches are sure to impress and satisfy everyone.

What makes these brioches special is their soft, fluffy texture and the creamy vanilla custard filling that mingles beautifully with mini chocolate chips. They’re perfect for busy mornings, lazy brunches, or even an afternoon snack. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This recipe might seem fancy, but it’s simple enough for anyone to tackle. Perfect for novice bakers!
• Family-Friendly Treat: Kids and adults alike love the combination of chocolate and vanilla. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the custard in advance! Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble your brioches.
• Delicious Flavor: The rich taste of buttery brioche paired with creamy custard and chocolate chips will have you coming back for more.
• Versatile Occasions: Serve them at breakfast, brunch, or even as dessert! They fit right into any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up these delicious Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Let’s gather everything 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 quite flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add Different Chips: Swap out mini chocolate chips for white chocolate or peanut butter chips for a fun twist!
• Try Different Flavors: Add some orange or almond extract to the custard for an exciting flavor profile.
• Incorporate Fruits: Toss in some fresh berries or sliced bananas along with the chocolate chips for a fruity surprise.
• Go Nutty: Sprinkle in some chopped nuts like hazelnuts or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches

Step 1: Prepare the Brioche Dough

Start by combining your dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, and crumbled yeast in a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Mixing them briefly helps create a foundation for your dough. When you add the beaten eggs next, knead at medium speed until thick and smooth—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

Step 2: Knead in Butter

Now comes the fun part! Gradually add in the softened butter while kneading. This step is crucial because it enriches your dough’s texture; kneading until it’s dense yet slightly sticky should take around 20 minutes. Don’t worry if it seems challenging—your patience will pay off with heavenly brioches!

Step 3: First Rise

Once your dough is ready, cover it with plastic wrap. Let it rise at room temperature for about 2 hours or until it has doubled in size. This rising process allows those lovely flavors to develop while creating that airy texture we’re looking for.

Step 4: Prepare the Custard

While waiting for your dough to rise, heat whole milk with butter in a saucepan along with a split vanilla pod. Once bubbling, remove from heat. In another bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and flour before gradually pouring the hot milk mixture over it while whisking continuously. Return this back to heat until thickened into custard—this gives your brioches that creamy filling!

Step 5: Shape the Brioches

After rolling out your dough into a rectangle shape, spread that luscious cooled custard over half of it. Top with mini chocolate chips before folding the dough over to enclose your filling snugly. Cut into 8 equal rectangles and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 6: Second Rise

Let those beautiful brioches rise again for about 2 hours; this extra rise leads to fluffy results when baked!

Step 7: Brush and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Before baking, brush each brioche with a mixture of beaten egg and yolk for that golden finish. Bake them for about 10-12 minutes until they turn golden brown—trust me; you’ll love how they smell as they bake!

Step 8: Prepare Sugar Syrup

As they cool off slightly after baking, make a quick sugar syrup by boiling water and sugar together until dissolved. This syrup will give your brioches that glossy sheen when brushed on them.

Step 9: Serve

Allow your Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches to cool completely before serving—they’re best enjoyed fresh! Perfect as part of breakfast or brunch or even as an indulgent snack during tea time.

With this simple guide on how to make Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches, I hope you feel inspired to dive into baking! Enjoy every bite of these delightful pastries; I know my family does!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches

Baking is all about the little details, and these pro tips will help you create the perfect Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches that will impress everyone!

• Use fresh yeast: Fresh yeast provides a better rise and flavor than dried yeast. Make sure it’s active before using it to ensure your brioches are light and fluffy.

• Knead thoroughly: Kneading the dough well develops gluten, which gives your brioches their delightful texture. Aim for a smooth, slightly sticky dough that bounces back when poked.

• Chill the custard: Allowing the custard to cool completely before spreading it on the dough ensures that it stays in place while baking, preventing any messy spills.

• Be patient during the rise: Giving your dough enough time to rise is crucial. A longer first rise will lead to fluffier brioches with a better texture. Don’t rush this step!

• Brush with syrup immediately: Applying the sugar syrup right after baking helps seal in moisture and adds a glossy finish that makes your brioches even more appealing.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches

These delightful brioches are not only delicious but also visually stunning, making them perfect for any brunch or special occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your presentation.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness without overwhelming the flavors.
• Fresh berries: A handful of fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries can add a pop of color and a refreshing balance to the rich brioche.
• Mint leaves: A sprig of mint not only looks beautiful but also adds a burst of fresh flavor that complements the vanilla custard nicely.

Side Dishes

• Fruit salad: A colorful fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet brioches, adding both flavor and nutrition.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layer creamy yogurt with granola and fruit for a crunchy, tangy side that complements the richness of the brioches perfectly.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea pairs wonderfully with these sweet treats, enhancing their flavors and providing a cozy experience.
• Scrambled eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs offer a savory balance to the sweetness of the brioches, making for a well-rounded breakfast or brunch plate.

With these tips and serving ideas, your Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches are sure to be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches are perfect for meal prep! You can make the brioche dough and custard ahead of time, ensuring a delicious breakfast or brunch is always within reach.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep any leftover brioches in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If you notice them starting to dry out, consider wrapping them in plastic wrap to maintain moisture.

Freezing

• To freeze, allow the brioches to cool completely.
• Wrap each brioche tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months—perfect for a quick treat!

Reheating

• To reheat, take the desired number of brioches out of the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature.
• Warm them in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 5-10 minutes until heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with dark chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or even flavored varieties like mint or orange. Just ensure they are suitable for your dietary preferences.

How long do Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches last?

When stored properly, these brioches can last up to 2 days at room temperature. If you choose to freeze them, they will maintain their quality for about 3 months, so you can enjoy them anytime!

Can I prepare the vanilla custard ahead of time?

Yes! The vanilla custard can be made a day or two in advance. Just store it in the fridge covered with plastic wrap touching the surface to prevent a skin from forming.

What should I do if my brioche dough doesn’t rise properly?

If your brioche dough isn’t rising as expected, it could be due to inactive yeast or insufficient warmth. Ensure your yeast is fresh and try placing the dough in a warm area to encourage proper rising.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these delightful Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches! They are not only a treat for your taste buds but also a wonderful way to spend time in the kitchen. Whether it’s breakfast or brunch, sharing these warm delights with family and friends will surely bring smiles all around. Happy baking!