Blueberry & Custard Brioche

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The Blueberry & Custard Brioche combines the buttery richness of classic French brioche with the sweet tang of fresh blueberries and the creamy decadence of homemade custard. This delightful pastry offers a gorgeous balance of flavor, texture, and visual appeal, making it a standout for brunch, breakfast, or dessert.

Brioche itself has its roots in 17th-century France, known for its soft and airy crumb, created by enriching the dough with eggs and butter. When you add a silky vanilla custard and plump, juicy blueberries, the result is a treat that feels both special and comforting.

Brioche recipes often find their way into bakeries and home kitchens alike, but the addition of blueberry and custard elevates it to a new level of indulgence.

The Blueberry & Custard Brioche not only pleases the palate but also looks stunning on any table, with its golden, glossy crust dotted with bursts of purple and creamy swirls. This recipe is designed to help even novice bakers achieve bakery-quality results at home.

For a deeper dive into brioche history and techniques, reference resources like King Arthur Baking’s brioche guide at https://www.kingarthurbaking.com/learn/guides/brioche. Let’s embark on this baking adventure and create a Blueberry & Custard Brioche that everyone will remember.

Ingredients for Blueberry & Custard Brioche

    • 3 1/4 cups (400g) all-purpose flour
    • 1/3 cup (67g) granulated sugar
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 2 1/4 teaspoons (7g) instant yeast
    • 4 large eggs, room temperature
    • 1/4 cup (60ml) whole milk, warm
    • 10 tablespoons (140g) unsalted butter, softened and cubed
    • 1 1/2 cups (225g) fresh blueberries
    • 2 tablespoons flour (for tossing blueberries)
    • For the custard:
    • 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
    • 3 large egg yolks
    • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
    • 2 tablespoons (16g) cornstarch
    • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
    • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • For assembly:
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 2 tablespoons pearl sugar or coarse sugar (optional)

Instructions for Making Blueberry & Custard Brioche

    1. Prepare the custard first. In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium until steaming but not boiling.
    2. In a bowl, whisk egg yolks with granulated sugar until pale and thick. Add cornstarch and whisk until smooth.
    3. Gradually add the warm milk to the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
    4. Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring continuously, until it thickens (about 3-5 minutes).

    1. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract and butter. Transfer custard to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (touching the surface), and chill.
    2. To make the brioche dough, mix flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast in a stand mixer bowl.
    3. Add eggs and warm milk, mixing on low speed until a sticky dough forms.
    4. Add the softened butter, one cube at a time, mixing on medium speed until fully incorporated and dough is smooth, shiny, and elastic (8-10 minutes).
    1. Cover the bowl and let dough rise at room temperature for 1-2 hours until doubled. For best texture, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
    2. Toss blueberries with flour to prevent sinking. Grease a 9-inch springform pan or deep cake pan.
    3. Turn chilled dough onto a lightly floured surface. Roll out into a rectangle, about 1/2-inch thick.
    4. Spread an even layer of chilled custard over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
    1. Scatter floured blueberries over the custard.
    2. Roll up the dough from the long edge into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
    3. Cut the log into 8-10 pieces and arrange them, swirl-side up, in the prepared pan.
    4. Cover loosely and let rise for 45-60 minutes until puffy.
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the brioche with beaten egg and sprinkle with pearl sugar, if using.
  2. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and set. If browning too quickly, tent with foil for the last 10 minutes.
  3. Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutritional Information

A single serving of Blueberry & Custard Brioche (approximately 1/10th of the recipe) contains about 300-350 calories, with most of the energy coming from healthy carbohydrates and fats. Each serving typically provides 6-8g of protein, 14-16g of fat (mainly from butter and eggs), and 40-45g of carbohydrates.

The brioche dough supplies B vitamins and iron, while blueberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C. The custard contributes calcium and additional protein. While the pastry is an indulgent treat and should be enjoyed in moderation, it offers a satisfying mix of macronutrients alongside micronutrient benefits from the fruit.

For those mindful of dietary needs, you can substitute parts of the recipe (like reduced-fat milk or less sugar) to adjust the nutritional value.

For a comprehensive breakdown of the nutritional value of similar pastries and the benefits of blueberries, consult the USDA FoodData Central at https://fdc.nal.usda.gov. Remember, the final nutrition count will depend on exact ingredient choices and portion size.

Wine/Beverage Pairings With Blueberry & Custard Brioche

Blueberry & Custard Brioche pairs beautifully with a range of beverages. For a breakfast or brunch treat, serve alongside a hot cup of medium-roast coffee or freshly steeped Earl Grey tea. The subtle citrus notes in the tea complement the berries, while the custard’s richness balances the coffee’s bitterness.

For a more indulgent pairing, try a glass of Moscato d’Asti or a light, fruity Prosecco. These sparkling wines highlight the blueberries’ natural sweetness and refresh your palate.

If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a homemade blueberry lemonade or an iced vanilla chai latte would enhance the flavors of the brioche while providing a refreshing contrast.

Cooking Tips and Variations

Perfecting your Blueberry & Custard Brioche is all about patience and attention to detail. For the fluffiest texture, chill your dough overnight—this slow fermentation enhances both flavor and crumb.

When incorporating butter, ensure it is truly soft but not melted, as this helps it blend seamlessly for a rich, velvety dough. Dusting blueberries with flour is a crucial step; it prevents them from sinking during baking and distributes those juicy bursts throughout the loaf.

If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought custard, but homemade delivers the best flavor and consistency. Variations abound: swap blueberries for raspberries, blackberries, or even a mix of berries for a colorful, tangy twist. For a citrusy note, add finely grated lemon zest to your custard or dough.

If you prefer individual servings, shape the dough and fillings into muffin tins for beautiful brioche buns. Brioche is forgiving but benefits from precise measuring and proper proofing. If your home is chilly, let the dough rise in an oven with just the light on.

Finally, ensure you cool the brioche slightly before serving, so the custard and berries set and each slice holds its shape.

Serving Suggestions

To make the most of your Blueberry & Custard Brioche, serve it warm or at room temperature. A gentle reheating in a low oven (about 300°F/150°C for 5-8 minutes) revives the tender crumb and brings the custard and blueberries back to life.

For a brunch centerpiece, present the brioche on a platter, dusted lightly with powdered sugar and garnished with a handful of fresh blueberries and mint leaves. For dessert, pair slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

The brioche also makes a decadent base for bread pudding if you have leftovers. When serving at gatherings, slice the brioche into thick wedges and let guests help themselves, ensuring everyone gets a swirl of custard and a burst of blueberry in every bite.

For special occasions, consider drizzling with a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice to add zesty contrast. This versatile pastry adapts beautifully to both casual and formal settings, always adding a touch of elegance and comfort.

Blueberry & Custard Brioche Health Benefits

While Blueberry & Custard Brioche is a treat best enjoyed occasionally, it does offer some health benefits. Blueberries are a nutrition powerhouse, loaded with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants that can help support immune function and reduce inflammation.

The eggs and milk in both the dough and custard provide high-quality protein and essential amino acids, along with calcium and vitamin D. Brioche’s enriched dough is higher in fat than standard bread, mainly from butter, but these fats contribute to satiety and flavor.

For those seeking a lighter option, consider reducing the sugar, using low-fat dairy, or increasing the proportion of fruit. The brioche’s moderate protein and carb content make it a satisfying breakfast or snack, especially when paired with protein-rich beverages.

For more information on the health benefits of blueberries and dairy, visit resources like Healthline at https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/blueberries-benefits. Remember, balance is key—enjoying a homemade pastry alongside a healthy, whole-food diet is part of a sustainable approach to wellness.

FAQs About Blueberry & Custard Brioche

Can I use frozen blueberries for Blueberry & Custard Brioche?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Do not thaw them before adding to the recipe; toss in flour and add directly to the dough to prevent excess moisture.

How do I store leftover Blueberry & Custard Brioche?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently before serving.

Can the brioche dough be made in advance?

Absolutely. For best results, refrigerate the dough overnight after its first rise. This enhances flavor and makes the dough easier to handle.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can use dairy-free butter and milk alternatives, as well as plant-based custard, though the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

Can I bake Blueberry & Custard Brioche in muffin tins?

Yes, dividing the dough and fillings among muffin tins creates individual brioche buns—just reduce baking time to 18-22 minutes.

Blueberry & Custard Brioche is a memorable centerpiece for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, marrying the classic French pastry with the bright flavors of blueberries and the creamy softness of custard. With the right techniques and a little patience, you can produce bakery-quality results in your own kitchen, delighting family and friends alike. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven, elegantly plated for a special occasion, or as a comforting afternoon snack, this brioche promises satisfaction in every bite. Explore variations, savor the healthful qualities of its ingredients, and make this recipe a cherished favorite in your repertoire.

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