Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that warms the heart and fills the home with an irresistible aroma, you’ve come to the right place! These Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches are not just a recipe; they’re a hug in pastry form. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this recipe brings a little bit of French pastry magic into your kitchen. Imagine fluffy brioches filled with creamy custard and sweet chocolate chips—what could be better?

Baking these brioches is an enjoyable experience that even novice bakers will love. The process may take some time, but trust me, the end result is worth every minute spent in the kitchen. Your loved ones will be so impressed when you serve them fresh from the oven!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps, you’ll be whipping up these delightful pastries in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the combination of chocolate and vanilla!
• Make-Ahead Option: The custard can be prepared in advance, making it easy to assemble on busy mornings.
• Impressive Presentation: These brioches look stunning on any table, making them perfect for brunch or special occasions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome components that come together beautifully. Let’s dive into what you need for these Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches.

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! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
• Fruit Fillings: Swap out chocolate chips for berries or sliced bananas for a fruity twist.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm spice flavor.
• Different Chocolates: Use dark, milk, or white chocolate chips to switch up the sweetness.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches

Step 1: Prepare the Brioche Dough

In a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, combine your flour, sugar, salt, and crumbled yeast. This step sets the foundation for your dough. Mix briefly until combined. Next, add in those beaten eggs! Knead at medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until everything comes together into a thick batter.

Step 2: Incorporate Butter

Gradually add in your softened butter. This is where your dough transforms into something truly special! Knead it for about 20 minutes until dense and slightly sticky—that’s how you get those fluffy brioches we all love.

Step 3: First Rise

Cover your dough with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for about 2 hours until it has doubled in size. This step is crucial as it helps develop flavor and texture.

Step 4: Prepare the Custard

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine milk and butter with the vanilla pod. Once it’s bubbling, remove from heat. In another bowl, whisk egg yolks with sugar, cornstarch, and flour. Gradually pour in that hot milk mixture while whisking continuously—this technique prevents scrambling! Return it to low heat until thickened into custard.

Step 5: Chill Your Custard

Transfer your custard to a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap directly on its surface to prevent skin from forming. Refrigerate until cooled—this makes spreading it so much easier later!

Step 6: Shape the Brioches

Roll out your dough into a large rectangle. Spread half of it with that luscious cooled custard and sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top before folding over to cover that delicious filling. Cut into 8 equal rectangles and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 7: Second Rise

Let those beauties rise again for about another 2 hours until puffy—this is where they get their lovely airy texture!

Step 8: Brush & Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Brush each brioche gently with an egg wash made from beaten egg and yolk before popping them into the oven for about 10-12 minutes until golden brown.

Step 9: Prepare Sugar Syrup

While they bake, bring water and sugar to a boil in a small saucepan until dissolved—this syrup gives them that glossy finish we all admire!

Step 10: Serve & Enjoy!

Once baked, brush your brioches with warm syrup for that extra shine! Allow them to cool completely before serving as part of breakfast or brunch. Enjoy each fluffy bite filled with sweet custard goodness!

With this recipe tucked away in your kitchen arsenal, you’ll have no trouble impressing friends and family at any occasion! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches

Making these delightful brioches can be a wonderful experience, and with a few helpful tips, you’ll be well on your way to impressing your family and friends!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh yeast and high-quality vanilla. This ensures that your brioches have the best flavor and texture possible.

• Knead Thoroughly: Don’t rush the kneading process; aim for about 20 minutes. A well-kneaded dough develops gluten, which gives the brioches their airy structure.

• Monitor Rising Time: Keep an eye on the dough during its first rise. The environment can affect how quickly it rises; look for it to double in size rather than sticking strictly to time.

• Cool the Custard Completely: Allowing your custard to cool before spreading it on the dough is crucial. This prevents the heat from melting the chocolate chips and ensures they maintain their shape.

• Brush with Syrup While Warm: Applying sugar syrup as soon as the brioches come out of the oven helps create a beautiful, glossy finish that makes them look extra tempting!

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches

These Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches are not just delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for any occasion! Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful treat.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness.
• Fresh Berries: Garnishing with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries brings a pop of color and a refreshing tartness that complements the sweetness of the brioches.

Side Dishes

• Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad made with seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the richness of the brioches.
• Yogurt Parfait: Serve with a yogurt parfait layered with granola and honey for a wholesome breakfast option.
• Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea enhances the experience, providing warmth and comfort alongside your sweet treat.
• Smoothies: Pair these brioches with a refreshing smoothie packed with greens and fruits for a nutritious brunch spread.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll turn your brunch table into a feast everyone will remember! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches are perfect for meal prep! With a little planning, you can enjoy these delightful treats any day of the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the brioches to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Enjoy within 2 days for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

• Allow the brioches to cool completely first.
• Wrap each brioche tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 1 month. Just make sure to label your bags!

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
• Unwrap the brioches and place them on a baking sheet.
• Bake for 5-10 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

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

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

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even flavored chips like mint or caramel. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly with different chocolates.

How long do Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these delicious brioches can last up to 2 days at room temperature. For longer storage, consider freezing them!

Can I prepare the custard ahead of time for my Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches?

Yes! The custard can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Just cover it with plastic wrap directly touching the surface to prevent a skin from forming.

What should I do if my brioche dough is too sticky?

If your dough feels overly sticky after kneading, try adding a bit more flour—about a tablespoon at a time—until it reaches the right consistency. Remember that it should be slightly sticky but still manageable.

Are there any substitutes for butter in this recipe?

You can use plant-based butter or margarine as a substitute for regular butter if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. This will help maintain the rich flavor while accommodating dietary preferences.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches! They are truly special with their soft texture and delightful flavors, perfect for sharing or enjoying all on your own. Whether it’s breakfast or brunch, these sweet treats will surely impress everyone around your table. Happy baking, and don’t forget to come back and share your experience!