Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThere’s something utterly delightful about the scent of warm pastries wafting through the kitchen. These Decadent Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches are like a warm embrace on a Sunday morning, combining the richness of buttery dough with a sweet, velvety custard core and irresistible chocolate chips. Not only are they perfect for a leisurely brunch, but they also offer an elegant touch that will impress any guest at your table. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility—whether you’re seeking a gluten-free option or want to whip up a vegan version, these brioches can easily accommodate your needs. So, are you ready to elevate your baking game and indulge in the bliss of homemade pastries? Why Are These Brioches Irresistible? Warm aromas wafting through your kitchen set the scene for a delightful baking adventure. Rich custard combined with mini chocolate chips creates a deliciously sweet surprise with every bite. Versatile options make it easy to tailor this recipe to your dietary needs, whether gluten-free or vegan. Elevate your brunch with a touch of elegance that will surely wow your guests. If you’re curious about other tempting treats, don’t miss out on these Vegan Chocolate Chip cookies or our delicious Chocolate Croissant Bake for more pastry inspiration! Decadent Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches Ingredients For the Dough All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the dough; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option. Sugar – Adds sweetness to the dough; reduce for less sweetness or use coconut sugar for a healthier choice. Salt – Enhances flavor and is essential for balance—do not omit. Fresh Yeast – Leavens the dough for a light texture; can be replaced with active dry yeast (3g) if fresh yeast is unavailable. Eggs – Adds richness and binds ingredients; use flax eggs for vegan options. Unsalted Butter – Offers flavor and moisture; substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free option. For the Custard Whole Milk – Creates a creamy custard; use almond or soy milk for a dairy-free version. Vanilla Pod – Infuses rich flavor into the custard; extract can be used as an alternative (1 teaspoon). Egg Yolks – Thickens custard; can replace with cornstarch for an egg-free custard. Sugar (for custard) – Same substitutions as previous sugar note. Cornstarch – Helps to thicken the custard; can be omitted if using a different thickener. For the Chocolatey Goodness Mini Chocolate Chips – Provides a sweet, chocolatey burst; semisweet or dark chocolate chips can also be used. When preparing your Decadent Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches, keep in mind these easy substitutions and tips to accommodate various dietary preferences! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Decadent Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches Step 1: Prepare the Dough In a stand mixer, combine all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, and fresh yeast. Add in the eggs and mix on medium speed for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Gradually incorporate the softened unsalted butter, kneading for an additional 15-20 minutes. The dough should be sticky yet elastic, indicating readiness for the first rise. Step 2: First Rise Cover the kneaded dough with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, placing it in a warm environment. Allow it to rise for approximately 2 hours or until doubled in size. This fermentation process is crucial for achieving that fluffy texture in your Decadent Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches. Step 3: Make Custard In a saucepan, gently heat whole milk and butter over low heat with a split vanilla pod, stirring until the butter has melted. Meanwhile, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch in a separate bowl. Once the milk is warm, slowly add it to the egg mixture, whisking continuously. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium-low heat until thickened, about 8-10 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and let it chill completely. Step 4: Shape Brioches After the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it into a rectangle. Spread the chilled vanilla custard evenly across the dough and sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top. Carefully roll the dough, then cut it into 8 pieces. Place the pieces cut side up in a greased baking dish and let them rise uncovered for another 2 hours until puffed. Step 5: Bake Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) while the brioches are rising. Once ready, brush the tops of each brioche with an egg wash for a beautiful golden finish. Bake for 10-12 minutes, keeping an eye out for a golden brown crust and a soft, puffy texture. Your delectable brioches should fill the kitchen with a delightful aroma as they bake. Step 6: Finishing Touch Create a simple syrup by combining equal parts boiling water and sugar, stirring until dissolved. Once the brioches are out of the oven, brush the syrup over the warm pastries for a delightful shine and added sweetness. Allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack, ready to serve and impress with your homemade Decadent Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches! What to Serve with Decadent Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches? Indulging in freshly baked pastries creates a perfect moment to curate a delightful meal, and these brioches deserve exquisite companions. Fresh Berries: Enhance the sweetness of the brioches with a vibrant mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, adding a refreshing tartness. Their brightness complements the rich flavors beautifully. Creamy Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream adds a luxurious touch that balances the density of the brioches, making every bite feel like a decadent dessert. Rich Coffee: A cup of strong, aromatic coffee pairs perfectly, cutting through the sweetness and enhancing the flavor profile of your delicious pastries. The combination is sure to wake up your senses. Citrus Salad: A refreshing citrus salad with oranges and grapefruits will act as a zesty counterpoint. The acid will brighten the rich custard and chocolate notes, making each bite more enticing. Chocolate Hazelnut Spread: For those who crave extra indulgence, serving your brioches with a side of silky chocolate hazelnut spread creates a delightful experience that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Homemade Lemon Curd: This tangy and creamy condiment perfectly offsets the sweetness of the brioches. Slather a bit on your brioche for a citrusy twist that refreshes the palate. Chai Tea: A warm cup of chai, with its aromatic spices, adds a comforting ambiance that complements the brioches’ buttery flavors while providing a cozy touch. Iced Herbal Tea: For a lighter, refreshing option, serve the brioches with a glass of unsweetened iced herbal tea—its subtle flavors allow the pastries to shine. Chocolate Milkshake (for kids): For a fun twist, pair with a thick chocolate milkshake; it’s the ultimate sweet treat that kids will adore alongside the rich brioches! Each of these additions contributes to a memorable meal experience centered around your Decadent Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches. Expert Tips for Decadent Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches Knead Well: Ensure you knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic for the perfect fluffy texture. A well-kneaded dough is essential for your brioches. Warm Environment: Make sure your dough rises in a warm spot. Cooler conditions can slow down the yeast activity, resulting in dense brioches. Chill Custard: Don’t skip chilling the custard before spreading. A well-chilled custard will hold its shape better within the dough, creating that deliciously creamy surprise. Watch the Bake: Keep an eye on the oven while baking. Remove the brioches as soon as they’re golden brown and puffed; over-baking leads to a dry texture. Customize Fillings: Feel free to experiment with fillings! Swap chocolate chips with fresh fruits or nuts to create variations that suit your taste while maintaining the rich flavor of the Decadent Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches. Make Ahead Options These Decadent Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time during the week! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; just knead, place it in an airtight container, and refrigerate. The custard can also be made ahead of time; it will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply allow the dough to come to room temperature, shape the brioches, and let them rise as directed before baking. This ensures that they are just as delicious and fluffy, infusing your kitchen with that irresistible fresh-baked aroma without the stress. Decadent Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches Variations Feel free to get creative with these delightful brioches, tailoring each bite to your personal taste! Fruit-Filled: Replace chocolate chips with fresh raspberries or blueberries for a burst of fruity goodness. This twist is refreshing and adds a vibrant color to your treats. Spiced Custard: Incorporate warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into your custard for an earthy flavor boost. This comforting addition will create a cozy, aromatic experience. Chocolate Custard: Swap the vanilla custard for a rich chocolate custard. For true chocoholics, this decadent option is a chocolate lover’s dream come true! Nutty Addition: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an exciting crunch. The nuttiness complements the sweetness nicely, adding texture to the fluffy brioches. Zesty Lemon: Brighten your custard with a hint of lemon zest. The citrusy zing will elevate your pastries and create a refreshing contrast to the creamy custard. Dairy-Free Delight: Use almond or coconut milk and vegan butter to create a dairy-free version. This ensures that everyone can enjoy these heavenly pastries without missing out! Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend. With a few tweaks, you can savor these brioches without gluten, keeping the charm intact. Savory Twist: Experiment with savory fillings like cheese or herbs for a unique appetizer-style brioche. Infusing unexpected flavors can truly surprise your guests and make your brunch unforgettable. Now that you have these enticing variations in mind, why not dive deeper into the world of delightful treats? Check out our Vegan Chocolate Chip cookies or indulge in the rich flavors of our Chocolate Croissant Bake for more scrumptious inspiration! Storage Tips for Decadent Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches Room Temperature: Store brioches in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them soft and fresh. Fridge: If you need to store them longer, refrigerate for up to 5 days; just allow them to return to room temperature before enjoying. Freezer: For long-term storage, individually wrap each brioche in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven before serving. Reheating: To reheat, place frozen or refrigerated brioches in a preheated 350°F (180°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and delightful! Decadent Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches Recipe FAQs What is the best method for selecting ripe ingredients for this recipe? Absolutely! When choosing your ingredients, opt for fresh, high-quality options. For the vanilla pod, look for a moist and aromatic pod, free of any dark spots or dryness. Select eggs that are clean and intact. The chocolate chips should be good quality too, as they will enhance the sweetness and richness of the brioches. How should I store the Decadent Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches? Store your brioches in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them fresh for a longer time, refrigerate for up to 5 days. Just remember to allow them to come to room temperature before savoring their delectable taste! Can I freeze the Decadent Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches? Yes, you can! For best results, individually wrap each brioche in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in a preheated 350°F (180°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes. What should I do if the dough doesn’t rise properly? If your dough isn’t rising, first check the yeast. If it’s old or improperly stored, it may not activate. For best results, ensure your rising environment is warm—around 75-80°F (24-27°C) is ideal. If it’s cooler, find a warm spot or use an oven with the light on for a gentle heat. Be patient and give it a bit more time if necessary! Are there any dietary considerations I need to be aware of? Yes! If you’re accommodating dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this recipe. For a gluten-free version, use a suitable gluten-free flour blend. For a vegan option, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) and use almond or soy milk along with vegan butter. Always check manufacturers for potential allergens, especially for chocolate and dairy substitutes. What if my custard becomes lumpy during preparation? If you notice lumps in your custard, don’t worry! Continue to stir vigorously while cooking; the heat should help break them down. If it’s still lumpy, you can strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve after cooking to remove those pesky bits. Just ensure to whisk continuously when adding the milk to prevent lumps from forming in the first place! Decadent Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches for Brunch Bliss These Decadent Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioches are perfect for brunch, combining buttery dough, custard, and chocolate chips. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 12 minutes minsRising Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 42 minutes mins Servings: 8 briochesCourse: DessertCuisine: BakeCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dough500 g All-Purpose Flour Substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.50 g Sugar Reduce for less sweetness or use coconut sugar for a healthier choice.10 g Salt Essential for balance.25 g Fresh Yeast Replace with 3g active dry yeast if fresh yeast is unavailable.3 Eggs Use flax eggs for vegan options.75 g Unsalted Butter Substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.For the Custard500 ml Whole Milk Use almond or soy milk for a dairy-free version.1 Vanilla Pod Alternatively, use 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.4 Egg Yolks Replace with cornstarch for an egg-free custard.50 g Sugar30 g Cornstarch Can be omitted if using a different thickener.For the Chocolatey Goodness150 g Mini Chocolate Chips Semisweet or dark chocolate chips can also be used. Equipment stand mixersaucepanBaking dishMixing bowls Method Preparing the DoughCombine all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, and fresh yeast in a stand mixer. Add eggs and mix on medium speed for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.Gradually incorporate softened unsalted butter, kneading for an additional 15-20 minutes. The dough should be sticky yet elastic.First RiseCover the dough with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and place in a warm environment for approximately 2 hours until doubled in size.Making CustardGently heat whole milk and butter over low heat with a split vanilla pod until melted. Whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch together separately.Slowly add the warm milk to the egg mixture, whisking continuously. Return to saucepan and cook over medium-low heat until thickened, about 8-10 minutes, then chill.Shaping BriochesOnce the dough has risen, turn it onto a floured surface, roll it into a rectangle, spread custard, and sprinkle with chocolate chips.Roll the dough, cut into 8 pieces, and place in a greased baking dish to rise for another 2 hours.BakingPreheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Brush tops with egg wash and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and puffy.Finishing TouchCreate a simple syrup with boiling water and sugar, brush over warm pastries, and cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1briocheCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 5gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 10IUCalcium: 5mgIron: 8mg NotesKnead the dough well, ensure a warm rising environment, chill custard before spreading, and customize fillings as desired. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
