Chocolate Custard Brioche Donuts (Printable Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ Custard

01 - 67 g granulated sugar
02 - 21 g unsweetened cocoa powder
03 - 16 g cornstarch
04 - 0.5 g instant espresso powder
05 - 315 ml whole chocolate milk
06 - 2.5 ml vanilla extract
07 - 14 g unsalted sweet European-style butter

→ Dough

08 - 80 ml whole cream-top milk
09 - 28 g unsalted sweet European-style butter
10 - 3 g instant yeast
11 - 190 g all-purpose flour
12 - 25 g granulated sugar
13 - 3 g salt
14 - 1 large egg

→ Frying and Finishing

15 - Neutral oil with high smoke point for frying
16 - Granulated sugar for coating
17 - Chocolate shavings for garnish

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together granulated sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, instant espresso powder, whole chocolate milk, vanilla extract, and butter. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth, then remove from heat and allow to cool.
02 - Combine cream-top milk, butter, instant yeast, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, and egg in a large mixing bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms. Transfer to a floured surface and knead for approximately 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
03 - Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm environment until doubled in size, about 60 to 90 minutes.
04 - Turn the risen dough onto a floured surface. Roll out to 1.25 cm thickness and cut into donut shapes using a donut cutter or two round cutters. Reserve the dough holes for later use.
05 - Heat neutral oil to 180°C in a deep fryer or heavy saucepan. Fry the donuts in batches for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
06 - Once cooled, coat donuts generously with granulated sugar. Using a piping bag, fill each donut with the cooled chocolate custard. Garnish with chocolate shavings to complete.

# Helpful Notes:

01 - Prepare the custard while the dough rises to optimize cooking time.
02 - Use a high smoke point oil to ensure safe frying temperatures.
03 - Let finished donuts rest briefly for optimal texture before serving.