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Step 1: Make the Brioche Dough
- In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Mix to combine.
- Add the eggs, warm milk, vanilla extract, and honey (if using) into the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until everything is incorporated.
- Once the dough starts coming together, gradually add the softened butter, one tablespoon at a time, allowing each piece of butter to be fully incorporated before adding more.
- Increase the mixer speed to medium and knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes, until it’s smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky (but not sticky). If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
- Shape the dough into a ball, then place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 2: Shape and Let the Dough Rise
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface.
- Roll the dough out to about ½ inch thickness. Using a donut cutter or two round cookie cutters (one larger and one smaller for the hole), cut out donut shapes. Reroll any scraps to make additional donuts.
- Place the shaped donuts and donut holes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover them loosely with plastic wrap or a towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until puffed up.
Step 3: Fry the Donuts
- While the donuts are rising, heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large pot over medium heat to 350°F (175°C). Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add a few donuts at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry the donuts for about 1-2 minutes per side or until golden brown. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to flip them.
- Remove the donuts from the oil and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Chocolate Glaze
- While the donuts are cooling slightly, make the chocolate glaze. In a heatproof bowl, combine the chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate) and heavy cream. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
- Stir in the butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until everything is well combined and the glaze is glossy.
Step 5: Glaze the Donuts
- Once the donuts are slightly cooled (but still warm), dip them into the chocolate glaze. Hold each donut by the edges and dunk the top half into the glaze, swirling gently to coat it evenly.
- Let any excess glaze drip off, then place the glazed donuts on a cooling rack to set. You can also add sprinkles or chopped nuts on top while the glaze is still wet, if you’d like.
Tips for Perfect Chocolate Brioche Donuts:
- Fresh Yeast: Be sure to use instant yeast or active dry yeast for the best rise. Always check the expiration date on your yeast to ensure it’s active.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Times: Brioche dough benefits from the extended rise times, as this creates the airy, buttery texture. Patience is key for light, fluffy donuts!
- Frying Tips: Make sure the oil temperature is steady at around 350°F. Too hot, and the donuts will brown too quickly; too cool, and they’ll absorb too much oil and be greasy. Use a thermometer for best results.
- Glaze Variations: Feel free to experiment with the glaze. You can add a tablespoon of espresso powder for a mocha flavor or a splash of orange extract for a citrusy twist.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with Coffee: These chocolate brioche donuts are the perfect pairing for a hot cup of coffee or a latte. The richness of the chocolate complements the coffee’s bold flavor.
- Toppings: If you’re feeling extra indulgent, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a donut sundae, or dust with powdered sugar for a classic finish.
- Donut Holes: Don’t throw away the donut holes! Fry them up and dip them in extra chocolate glaze for a bite-sized treat.
Final Thoughts:
These Chocolate Brioche Donuts are nothing short of a decadent indulgence. The rich, buttery brioche dough provides the perfect base for the luscious chocolate glaze, making these donuts a true treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. While they take a bit of time and effort, the results are so worth it—crispy on the outside, pillowy soft on the inside, and covered in a glossy layer of chocolate.
If you’re craving a homemade pastry that combines comfort and luxury, these chocolate brioche donuts will not disappoint. Whether you’re enjoying them with a morning cup of coffee or serving them at a special gathering, they’re guaranteed to be a hit!
Give this recipe a try and treat yourself to the ultimate donut experience. Happy baking!
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