Chocolate Bread Pudding is a luxurious, decadent dessert that perfectly combines the comforting texture of bread with rich, velvety chocolate. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing dish that is both indulgent and satisfying. With its warm, gooey center and crispy top, chocolate bread pudding is the ultimate way to satisfy your sweet tooth, making it a perfect ending for any meal or a cozy treat on a chilly evening.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this chocolate bread pudding recipe because it checks all the boxes for an ideal dessert: rich flavor, comforting texture, and ease of preparation. The chocolate provides a deep, intense sweetness, while the bread absorbs the custard mixture, creating a moist and delightful treat. It’s also incredibly simple to whip up, requiring minimal ingredients and effort—perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned bakers. Plus, it can fit into various dietary lifestyles, making it a versatile choice for gatherings or family meals.
Tips and Tricks
To ensure your chocolate bread pudding turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:
- Use stale bread: Day-old bread or slightly dried-out bread works best as it absorbs the custard without becoming mushy.
- Opt for high-quality chocolate: The flavor of the chocolate is crucial, so choose a chocolate that you love to eat.
- Let it rest: After mixing the custard with the bread, let it sit for about 30 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the mixture for a creamier texture.
- Experiment with add-ins: Consider adding nuts, dried fruits, or a splash of liqueur to elevate the flavors.
Make Ahead Tips
This recipe is perfect for making ahead:
- You can prepare the bread and custard mixture the night before and let it soak in the refrigerator. Just bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.
- Leftover chocolate bread pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining.
Recipe Variations
Get creative with your chocolate bread pudding by trying these variations:
- Swap the chocolate for white chocolate or a mix of milk and dark chocolate for a different flavor profile.
- Add spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or espresso powder for an extra flavor kick.
- For a fruitier twist, incorporate bananas or berries into the mixture before baking.
How to Serve
Serve your chocolate bread pudding warm, straight from the oven, for the best experience. Top it with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance the flavors. A drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can add an elegant touch. Present it in individual ramekins for a charming dessert display.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair your chocolate bread pudding with a rich dessert wine like port or a scoop of coffee ice cream for a delightful combination. For a non-alcoholic option, a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a creamy hot chocolate can complement the sweetness. You can also serve it alongside fresh berries or a light citrus salad to balance the richness.
How to Store
To store leftovers, place the chocolate bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven at a low temperature until heated through, or microwave individual servings until warm.
Equipment Needed
You will need a few essential kitchen tools for this recipe:
- A large mixing bowl for combining the ingredients
- A whisk for mixing the custard
- A baking dish (preferably a 9×13 inch) for baking the bread pudding
- An oven for baking
If you don’t have a baking dish, you could use individual ramekins for single servings.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) and use plant-based milk and dairy-free chocolate. For a nut-free version, ensure the chocolate used is nut-free and replace any nuts in the recipe with seeds or omit them altogether. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Seasonal Adaptations
While chocolate bread pudding is a year-round delight, you can adapt it for the seasons:
- In the fall, add pumpkin spice or caramel for a seasonal twist.
- In the summer, incorporate fresh berries or stone fruits to lighten the dish.
- During winter, consider adding peppermint extract or crushed candy canes for a festive feel.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use fresh bread instead of stale?
Fresh bread can become too mushy; it’s best to use day-old or slightly dried bread.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free bread to make a delicious gluten-free chocolate bread pudding.
What type of chocolate should I use?
High-quality dark chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate chips work best for a rich flavor.
Chocolate Bread Pudding
Chocolate Bread Pudding is a luxurious, decadent dessert that perfectly combines the comforting texture of bread with rich, velvety chocolate.
Ingredients
- 6 cups stale bread, cubed
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (or plant-based milk)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup chocolate chips (dark or semi-sweet)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1 teaspoon cinnamon, nuts, or dried fruit
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
- Add the cubed stale bread to the bowl and gently fold it into the custard mixture.
- Let it sit for 30 minutes to soak.
- Stir in the chocolate chips and any optional add-ins, such as nuts or dried fruit.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
8Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 488Total Fat 24gSaturated Fat 13gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 10gCholesterol 132mgSodium 365mgCarbohydrates 62gFiber 3gSugar 46gProtein 10g
TastyFitnessRecipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although tastyfitnessrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Chocolate bread pudding is more than just a dessert; it’s a comforting, delicious way to end any meal. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, you’ll find it a crowd favorite at gatherings and family dinners alike. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, this chocolate bread pudding is sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection. Enjoy the process, have fun in the kitchen, and savor every bite!