Indulge in these decadent brioche donuts filled with a smooth, rich chocolate custard. Made with a light, fluffy brioche dough and a luscious chocolate filling, each donut is rolled in sugar and topped with optional chocolate shavings for a gourmet touch. These donuts are perfect for any sweet craving or special occasion—whether you’re serving family, friends, or treating yourself, they’re guaranteed to impress. Follow this recipe to create homemade donuts that are crispy on the outside, pillowy on the inside, and bursting with creamy chocolate custard in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Custard
⅓ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the cocoa.
3 tablespoons cocoa powder: Provides a deep chocolate flavor.
2 tablespoons cornstarch: Thickens the custard to the perfect consistency.
½ teaspoon instant espresso powder (optional): Enhances the richness of the chocolate.
1 ⅓ cup whole chocolate milk: Adds a creamy base with extra chocolatey goodness.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a touch of warmth and depth.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Enriches the custard for a smooth finish.
For the Brioche Donuts
⅓ cup whole milk: Adds moisture to the dough.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Provides richness and a soft texture.
1 teaspoon instant yeast: Helps the dough rise and become airy.
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Creates the structure of the donut.
2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds subtle sweetness.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor balance.
1 large egg, at room temperature: Binds the dough for a soft, rich texture.
For Frying and Finishing
Neutral oil (like vegetable or canola) for frying: Needs to be at least 2” deep to fry the donuts.
Granulated sugar: For coating the donuts and adding a sweet crunch.
Chocolate shavings (optional): Adds a decorative finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Make the Chocolate Custard: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and espresso powder. Slowly pour in the chocolate milk while whisking. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the custard thickens and starts to bubble (about 10 minutes). Strain the custard through a sieve, stir in the vanilla extract and butter, and press plastic wrap directly onto the custard’s surface. Refrigerate until completely cool.
Prepare the Brioche Dough: In a small saucepan, warm the milk and butter over low heat until it reaches 90°F. Transfer to a stand mixer bowl with a dough hook and stir in the yeast. Add flour, sugar, salt, and egg, then mix on low speed until the dough begins to form. Scrape down the bowl, increase speed to medium, and continue mixing for 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and slightly sticky.
Let Dough Rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
Shape and Rest Donuts: Deflate the dough, then transfer to a lightly floured surface. Divide into 8 equal pieces, rolling each into a tight ball. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, flatten slightly, cover loosely with plastic wrap, and let rest until puffy (about 30 minutes).
Heat Oil for Frying: Fill a heavy-bottomed pot with oil at least 2” deep. Heat to 350°F – 355°F, then reduce the heat to maintain this temperature.
Fry the Donuts: Fry 2 donuts at a time, about 2 minutes per side, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 190°F. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined sheet.
Coat and Fill Donuts: While still warm, toss the donuts in granulated sugar. Using a paring knife, make a small slit in each donut to create a pocket for the custard. Fill a piping bag fitted with a round tip with the cooled chocolate custard and pipe it into each donut. Top with chocolate shavings if desired.
Why This Recipe is a Winner
These brioche donuts are loved for their light, airy texture and rich custard filling. The brioche dough yields a soft, buttery base, while the chocolate custard adds a luxurious creaminess that melts in your mouth. Plus, the extra touch of espresso powder in the custard boosts the chocolate flavor, making each bite more indulgent.
Pro Tips for the Best Brioche Donuts
- Accurate temperature is key. Keep the oil between 350°F – 355°F for evenly cooked donuts.
- Chill the custard thoroughly before filling to make piping easier and ensure the donuts stay intact.
- Use fresh yeast and allow the dough to rise fully for the fluffiest texture.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy these brioche donuts on their own or serve with a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate. They’re also delightful with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a complete dessert experience.
Final Thoughts
Homemade brioche donuts with chocolate custard offer a bakery-quality experience in your own kitchen. They’re a perfect blend of fluffy dough, rich chocolate filling, and sweet coating—a dessert you’ll want to make again and again. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the pleasure of creating these delicious treats from scratch.