Chocolate Bread Pudding Recipe

Chocolate Bread Pudding—a timeless dessert that combines the comforting qualities of bread with the rich decadence of chocolate. I recently decided to try out this recipe to see if it lived up to its reputation as a crowd-pleaser. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The moment the pudding emerged from the oven, its enticing aroma filled the kitchen, attracting my family like bees to honey. Everyone loved it, from the youngest to the oldest, and the dish disappeared in a matter of minutes. It was a unanimous decision that this recipe needed to be added to our family cookbook.

Ingredients

Creating the perfect Chocolate Bread Pudding requires a selection of carefully chosen ingredients that blend seamlessly to create a dessert rich in flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 6 cups of day-old bread, preferably brioche or challah, cut into cubes.
• 2 cups of whole milk for a creamy base.
• 1 cup of heavy cream to add richness.
• 1 cup of granulated sugar to sweeten the dish.
• 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips for that chocolatey goodness.
• 4 large eggs to bind the pudding.
• 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract for added depth of flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt to balance the sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted, to grease the baking dish.

Instructions

Preparing Chocolate Bread Pudding is a straightforward process that even beginners can master with ease. Follow these steps to create a dessert that will impress any dinner guest:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with the melted butter, ensuring every corner is covered to prevent sticking.
2. Combine the milk, cream, sugar, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
3. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten. Gradually add the warm milk mixture to the eggs, stirring constantly to prevent the eggs from cooking.
4. Place the bread cubes in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the bread.
5. Pour the milk and egg mixture over the bread and chocolate, pressing the bread down gently to ensure it absorbs the liquid.
6. Let the mixture sit for about 20 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the custard.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the pudding is set and the top is golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your dessert warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts

This Chocolate Bread Pudding recipe serves approximately 8 people. Each serving contains around 400 calories, making it a satisfying dessert that doesn’t skimp on richness or flavor.

Preparation Time

The preparation time for this Chocolate Bread Pudding is quite reasonable, making it an ideal choice for both leisurely weekends and busy weekdays. Here’s the breakdown:

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Soak time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 45-50 minutes
• Total time: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes

How to Serve

There are numerous ways to serve Chocolate Bread Pudding, each adding a unique twist to this classic dessert. Consider these serving suggestions:

• Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a hot-and-cold contrast.
• Drizzle with caramel sauce for added sweetness.
• Sprinkle with powdered sugar for a classic touch.
• Serve with fresh berries to cut through the richness.
• Add a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Additional Tips

To ensure your Chocolate Bread Pudding turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

1. Use day-old bread: Fresh bread can become too soggy. Day-old bread will hold up better when soaking up the custard.
2. Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the sugar to 3/4 cup.
3. Experiment with chocolate: Try using dark chocolate chips for a more intense flavor.
4. Check doneness: Insert a knife into the center of the pudding; it should come out clean when the pudding is done.
5. Make ahead: You can prepare the pudding ahead of time and bake it just before serving.

FAQ Section

Q: Can I use a different type of bread?

A: Yes, you can use any sturdy bread such as French bread, ciabatta, or even croissants for a richer texture.

Q: Can I make this pudding dairy-free?

A: Absolutely! Substitute the milk and cream with almond milk or coconut milk and use dairy-free chocolate chips.

Q: How long does Chocolate Bread Pudding last?

A: It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven before serving.

Q: Can I freeze Chocolate Bread Pudding?

A: Yes, you can freeze it. Wrap it tightly and store it for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: What if I don’t have chocolate chips?

A: You can chop a chocolate bar into small pieces or use cocoa powder, though the texture will differ slightly.