Why Make This Recipe
Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches are a delightful treat that combines rich flavors and soft textures. These brioches are perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or as a dessert. The soft, fluffy bread filled with creamy vanilla custard and sweet chocolate chips makes them irresistible. Whether you are a seasoned baker or trying your hand at making bread for the first time, this recipe is approachable and fun. Impress your friends and family with these warm, indulgent brioches that are sure to be a hit!
How to Make Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup vanilla custard
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Directions:
Prepare the Yeast: Start by pouring warm milk into a bowl. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the milk and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. This helps the yeast to become frothy and activate, which is crucial for the dough to rise.
Mix Dry Ingredients: While waiting for the yeast to froth, take a separate bowl and combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt. Stir gently to mix the dry ingredients evenly.
Combine Ingredients: Once the yeast mixture is frothy, pour it into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Also, add the two large eggs. Stir everything together using a wooden spoon or a spatula until a dough begins to form.
Add Butter: Gradually mix in the softened butter. You can either use your hands or a dough hook if you have a stand mixer. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Kneading is important as it develops the gluten in the dough, giving it structure.
First Rise: After kneading, cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. This process allows the yeast to work its magic and make the dough fluffy.
Preheat Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it will be ready for baking when the brioches are filled and shaped.
Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into equal pieces (about 8 if you want medium-sized brioches). Shape each piece into a ball and slightly flatten it with your hand.
Fill the Brioches: Now comes the exciting part — filling the brioches! Take a spoonful of vanilla custard and place it in the center of each flattened ball. Sprinkle a few chocolate chips on top of the custard, then carefully seal the edges of the dough around the filling to create a ball again. Make sure it’s sealed well; otherwise, the filling might leak during baking.
Second Rise: Place the filled brioches on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover them loosely with a cloth and let them rise for another 30 minutes. This second rise will make your brioches even fluffier and airier.
Bake: Once again, check your oven’s temperature. When ready, bake the brioches in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
Cool and Serve: After baking, remove the brioches from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve them warm for the best taste experience.
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches
These delectable brioches can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them warm as they are, or with a dusting of powdered sugar to add a touch of sweetness. You can also pair them with a side of whipped cream for a richer dessert. For breakfast, enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea. They are sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face.
How to Store Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches
If you have leftovers (though they might not last long!), store the brioches in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Wrap each brioche tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a resealable freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to a month. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature and reheat in the oven or the microwave.
Tips to Make Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches
- Check the Yeast: Always make sure your yeast is fresh and not expired. This is key to getting a good rise in your dough.
- Don’t Rush: Allow enough time for both rises. Skipping or shortening these stages can lead to dense brioches.
- Flavor Enhancements: Feel free to add a pinch of vanilla extract to the dough for extra flavor. You can also substitute the chocolate chips with nuts or dried fruits, depending on your preference.
- Custard Substitutes: If you don’t have vanilla custard, pastry cream or even pudding can work as a filling.
Variation
There are many variations to explore with Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches. Here are a few ideas:
- Nutty Brioche: Add chopped walnuts or pecans along with the chocolate chips for a nutty flavor.
- Fruit-Filled: Swap out the custard with fruit preserves or fresh fruits, such as berries, to give a fruity twist.
- Chocolate Dough: Incorporate cocoa powder in the dough to make chocolate-flavored brioches, combining the chocolate chips with chocolate dough.
- Glazed Brioches: Drizzle melted chocolate or a simple sugar glaze over the top once they’ve cooled for an extra treat.
FAQs
1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead. After the first rise, cover it and refrigerate. The next day, allow it to come to room temperature before shaping and filling.
2. Can I use a different type of filling?
Absolutely! You can experiment with custard, Nutella, or fruit jams. Just ensure the filling is not too liquid to prevent leaks.
3. What if my brioches don’t rise?
If your brioches don’t rise well, it may be due to the yeast being inactive. Check the expiration date on your yeast or ensure you activated it properly with warm milk.
4. How do I know when brioches are fully baked?
The brioches are fully baked when they are golden brown. You can also tap on the bottom, and it should sound hollow. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
5. Can I make mini brioches?
Yes, you can divide the dough into smaller pieces to create mini brioches. Adjust the baking time to about 10-15 minutes.
Enjoy baking and sharing your Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches with friends and family! They are sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire.
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Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Decadent chocolate chip brioches filled with creamy vanilla custard, perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup vanilla custard
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Pour warm milk into a bowl, sprinkle active dry yeast over milk and let sit for 5-10 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Stir to mix.
- Pour yeast mixture into dry ingredients, add eggs, and stir until a dough forms.
- Gradually mix in softened butter and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover dough and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Punch down the risen dough, divide into about 8 pieces, and shape into balls.
- Fill each flattened ball with a spoonful of custard and chocolate chips, seal well.
- Place on a baking sheet, cover loosely, and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly on a wire rack and serve warm.
Notes
Serve warm, optionally dusted with powdered sugar. Can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days or frozen for up to a month.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brioche
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 40mg