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Dreamy Chocolate Chip Vanilla Custard Brioche

chocolate chip vanilla custard brioche - featured image

Soft, buttery brioche filled with creamy vanilla custard and scattered with rich chocolate chips, perfect for brunches or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 1/2 cups (440 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) warm milk
  • 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
  • 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 3 tbsp (25 g) cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (175 g) chocolate chips
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

  1. Make the Brioche Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Add the eggs and warm milk, and mix until the dough comes together. Gradually add the softened butter while kneading, either using a stand mixer or by hand. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Cover and let it rise for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
  2. Prepare the Vanilla Custard: In a small saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it’s just starting to steam (don’t let it boil). In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch. Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking continuously. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, whisking constantly, until thickened. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let cool.
  3. Shape the Brioche: Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each piece into a ball, flatten slightly, and place a spoonful of custard and a sprinkle of chocolate chips in the center. Pinch the dough closed around the filling and shape into a ball. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. Final Rise: Cover the shaped brioche with a clean towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.
  5. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the brioche with beaten egg for a shiny finish. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown.
  6. Cool and Serve: Let the brioche cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm for the best flavor!

Notes

[‘Use room temperature ingredients for smooth dough and even rising.’, ‘Don’t overfill the brioche to prevent splitting during baking.’, ‘Chill the custard before filling to make it easier to work with.’, ‘Check for doneness by ensuring the brioche is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.’, ‘Stick to recommended rise times to avoid overproofing.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: brioche, vanilla custard, chocolate chip, French baking, brunch recipe