Blueberry & Custard Brioche Bun Recipe

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There is something irresistibly comforting about a freshly baked bun filled with luscious custard and bursting with juicy blueberries. The Blueberry & Custard Brioche Bun Recipe brings together the tender, buttery texture of brioche dough with the vibrant freshness of blueberries and the creamy sweetness of homemade custard, creating a treat that feels like a warm hug in snack form. This recipe is perfect for those who crave a bakery-quality indulgence you can make right at home, combining simple ingredients into a delightfully impressive pastry.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this recipe. Each one plays an essential role, from developing the dough’s soft structure to adding bursts of flavor and silky custard creaminess. The best part is, you likely already have most of these basics in your kitchen!

• 1 cup fresh blueberries: Adds juicy bursts of natural sweetness and a lovely pop of color.
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the sturdy base of the rich brioche dough, balancing softness with structure.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough gently while feeding the yeast for a light rise.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances sweetness perfectly.
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast: The magical leavening agent that makes our brioche rise fluffy and airy.
• 1/2 cup warm milk: Provides moisture to the dough and activates the yeast.
• 3 large eggs: Infuse richness and contribute to the brioche’s tender crumb.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Introduces creaminess and that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 1 cup whole milk: The base for our indulgent custard filling, adding creaminess and body.
• 1/4 cup sugar (for custard): Sweetens the custard gently without overpowering the other flavors.
• 3 egg yolks: Thicken and enrich the custard for a silky consistency.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch: The secret thickener ensuring custard is luxuriously smooth and spreadable.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, fragrant note that ties the custard flavor together beautifully.
• Powdered sugar for dusting: A delicate finishing touch that adds extra sweetness and visual appeal.

How to Make Blueberry & Custard Brioche Bun Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start with the warm milk and sprinkle the active dry yeast over it. Let it sit until you see a foamy layer on top—this means your yeast is alive and ready to help the dough rise beautifully.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. This blend ensures the dough has just the right balance of sweetness and seasoning before the wet ingredients join in.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry

Pour the activated yeast mixture and eggs into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until the dough just comes together; it should be a bit shaggy but combined at this point.

Step 4: Incorporate Butter

Add the softened butter gradually, kneading as you go. This step takes patience, but it’s worth it because the butter creates that tender crumb and enriches the dough’s flavor and texture.

Step 5: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size. This usually takes about an hour, and it’s the first of two rises that give brioche its light, airy feel.

Step 6: Prepare the Custard

While the dough rises, warm the whole milk in a saucepan. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch until smooth. Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.

Step 7: Cook the Custard

Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until the custard thickens. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let it cool completely. This rich custard will be the luscious heart of your brioche buns.

Step 8: Shape and Fill the Buns

Once your dough has doubled in size, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Flatten each piece slightly, add a generous spoonful of custard and a handful of fresh blueberries, then carefully pinch the edges to seal in all the goodness.

Step 9: Final Rise and Bake

Place the filled buns on a baking sheet, cover them, and let them rise again until puffy, about 30-40 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), then bake the buns for roughly 20 minutes until they turn a gorgeous golden brown.

Step 10: Cool and Dust

Allow the buns to cool on a wire rack before dusting with powdered sugar. This final step adds a touch of sweetness and that classic bakery look just waiting to be devoured.

How to Serve Blueberry & Custard Brioche Bun Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh blueberries and a light sprinkle of powdered sugar are simple yet elegant garnishes that highlight the vibrant filling inside your buns. For an extra special touch, drizzle with a bit of honey or a light lemon glaze to complement the custard’s richness.

Side Dishes

These buns pair beautifully with a steaming cup of chai tea or freshly brewed coffee. If you want to round out a brunch spread, serve alongside creamy yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a balanced, indulgent morning treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the buns in half and spread an extra layer of custard inside for a custard-stuffed sandwich. Or stack a few with whipped cream and extra blueberries for a fun twist on the traditional bun, creating bite-sized dessert towers that wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Blueberry & Custard Brioche Buns, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps maintain their soft texture and fresh flavor, but be advised they are best enjoyed fresh.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the buns before the final rise by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to one month. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge, let rise once more, and then bake as directed.

Reheating

To enjoy previously baked buns, warm them gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-10 minutes. This will revive the brioche’s tender crumb and bring the custard filling back to its luscious, creamy perfection.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen blueberries work well in this recipe. Just thaw and drain them well before filling the buns to prevent excess moisture from making the dough soggy.

Is it okay to substitute milk with a non-dairy alternative?

Absolutely! You can use almond milk, oat milk, or any preferred plant-based milk. Just make sure it’s unsweetened and adjust the temperature to warm for yeast activation and custard preparation.

How can I make the custard thicker?

If you prefer thicker custard, increase the cornstarch by an extra half tablespoon and cook it a minute or two longer, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

What’s the best way to store these buns if I don’t plan to eat them immediately?

For short-term storage, airtight containers are best at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze the unbaked — or baked — buns as described to preserve freshness.

Can this recipe be doubled?

Yes, doubling the recipe is straightforward; just be mindful of your mixing bowl sizes and rising space. You may also need to bake in batches or use multiple baking sheets.

Final Thoughts

The Blueberry & Custard Brioche Bun Recipe is a truly special way to brighten up any day with something sweet, tender, and utterly irresistible. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, snack time, or a sweet treat after dinner, these buns deliver on flavor, texture, and that warm homemade comfort we all crave. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and share the love with friends and family because a little sweetness like this is best enjoyed together.

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