Brioche with Mixed Berry Jam and Custard Filling

This soft and buttery brioche is filled with creamy homemade custard and sweet mixed berry jam, making it the perfect indulgent treat for breakfast or dessert. The combination of the rich, fluffy dough with the smooth custard and tangy-sweet berries creates an irresistible flavor combination. The brioche dough is easy to prepare, and the custard adds a creamy texture that elevates this baked good to the next level.

Why You’ll Love This:

You’ll love this brioche for its delicate, fluffy texture and the rich, flavorful fillings. The mixed berry jam offers a balance of sweetness and tartness, while the creamy custard brings a smooth and luscious element. The dough is enriched with butter, giving it a light, airy texture, and the whole process is simple enough for home baking while yielding bakery-quality results.

Perfect Occasion:

This brioche is perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or even a festive dessert. Whether you’re serving it to guests or enjoying it as a weekend treat, this delicious pastry is sure to impress. It’s also a great make-ahead option as the brioche can be stored and enjoyed over several days.

Decoration Tips:

For a decorative finish, you can brush the top of the brioche with egg wash for a shiny, golden crust before baking. After baking, dust with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. You can also drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk over the top for extra sweetness.

Ingredients for Brioche Dough:

• 3 cups of high-quality flour
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 50 grams butter
• 1 tablespoon instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• A pinch of salt
• 1 cup warm milk (or less, depending on the flour type; you may need more)

For the Simple Custard:

• 3 tablespoons custard powder
• 2 1/2 cups milk
• Sugar to taste
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons cream or whipped cream (optional, added after cooling)

For the Mixed Berry Jam:

• 2 cups mixed berries
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Brioche Dough:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, baking powder, and salt. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and softened butter. Gradually add the warm milk and knead until a soft, smooth dough forms. Adjust the amount of milk as needed, depending on the type of flour used. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it doubles in size.
2. Prepare the Custard:
   In a saucepan, whisk together the custard powder, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously until it thickens. Once the custard reaches the desired thickness, remove it from the heat and cover with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Let it cool completely, then mix in 2 tablespoons of cream or whipped cream for a smoother, creamier texture.
3. Prepare the Mixed Berry Jam:
   In a saucepan, combine the mixed berries, sugar, lemon juice, and water. Cook over medium heat until the berries break down and the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes. Let the jam cool completely before using.
4. Assemble the Brioche:
   Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface. Spread a layer of custard and a layer of mixed berry jam over the dough. Roll the dough into a log and cut it into even slices. Place the slices in a greased baking dish and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
5. Bake:
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the brioche for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your delicious homemade brioche with custard and berry jam!