When day-old bread meets rich chocolate in perfect harmony, magic happens in your kitchen. Chocolate bread pudding transforms humble ingredients into an indulgent dessert that’ll make your taste buds sing with joy. This classic comfort food takes the traditional bread pudding up several notches with decadent chocolate flavors that create the ultimate crowd-pleasing treat.
We’ve perfected this recipe to deliver that coveted contrast between a crispy golden top and a luxuriously creamy interior. The beauty of chocolate bread pudding lies in its versatility – you can use almost any bread you have on hand, making it both economical and delicious. Whether you’re serving it warm with vanilla ice cream or enjoying it chilled the next morning with coffee, this dessert never disappoints.
Ready to turn your leftover bread into something extraordinary? Let’s jump into this foolproof chocolate bread pudding recipe that’ll become your new go-to dessert for special occasions and cozy nights alike.
Ingredients
Our chocolate bread pudding recipe requires simple pantry staples that combine to create extraordinary results. We’ve organized the ingredients by component to make your preparation seamless and efficient.
For the Bread Pudding
- 8 cups day-old bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (brioche, challah, or French bread work best)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder, unsweetened
- Cooking spray for greasing the baking dish
For the Chocolate Custard
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 ounces dark chocolate, finely chopped
For the Optional Toppings
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar for dusting
- 1 cup vanilla ice cream for serving
- 2 tablespoons chocolate shavings
- 1/4 cup toasted nuts (pecans or walnuts)
- Fresh berries for garnish
- Caramel sauce for drizzling
Equipment Needed
Creating this decadent chocolate bread pudding requires exact equipment to ensure perfect results every time. We’ve organized our essential tools based on the size and style of dessert you want to create.
Baking Dishes
Our primary vessel choice depends on your serving needs. A 9 by 13 inch baking dish works perfectly for larger gatherings and family-style presentations. This size accommodates the full recipe and provides ideal depth for even cooking.
For smaller portions or intimate dinners, we recommend using a shallow 1.5 quart baking dish. This compact option creates beautiful individual-style servings while maintaining the perfect custard-to-bread ratio.
Mixing Equipment
A stand mixer or electric mixer streamlines our preparation process significantly. These tools excel at creaming ingredients and creating the smooth custard base that makes our bread pudding irresistibly creamy.
Essential Preparation Tools
Several additional items ensure seamless assembly. We need mixing bowls of various sizes for combining ingredients at different stages. A whisk becomes crucial for incorporating eggs into our chocolate custard without creating lumps.
Measuring cups and spoons guarantee accuracy in our ingredient ratios. A sharp knife helps us cube our day-old bread into uniform pieces that absorb the custard evenly.
Optional Enhancement Tools
A double boiler or microwave-safe bowl assists in melting chocolate smoothly without burning. Aluminum foil covers our pudding during initial baking if we notice excessive browning.
Having these tools ready before starting makes our chocolate bread pudding preparation effortless and enjoyable.
Instructions
We’ll guide you through each step to create this decadent chocolate bread pudding that transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary dessert. Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time.
Prep the Bread
First we need to prepare our bread foundation for optimal texture and flavor absorption. Choose day-old bread such as brioche, challah, or French bread for the best results since stale bread absorbs the custard more effectively than fresh bread. If you only have fresh bread available, toast it lightly to dry it out before proceeding.
Cut the bread into large cubes approximately 1.5 to 2 inches each to ensure even cooking and proper custard distribution. Uniform pieces help create consistent texture throughout the pudding while preventing some pieces from becoming overly soggy or remaining too dry.
Make the Chocolate Custard
Begin creating our rich chocolate custard by whisking together milk, cream, sugar, eggs, and chocolate in a saucepan. Use a combination of bittersweet and semi-sweet chocolate for the most complex flavor profile that balances sweetness with deep chocolate notes.
Heat the mixture on low heat while stirring constantly until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture becomes smooth. Take care not to overcook the custard as this can cause the eggs to scramble and ruin the silky texture we’re aiming for.
Assemble the Pudding
Start by lightly buttering a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving later. The butter also adds another layer of richness to complement our chocolate flavors.
Place the prepared bread cubes evenly in the buttered dish, arranging them so they fit snugly without being overly compressed. Pour the warm chocolate custard slowly over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are covered and the liquid reaches every corner of the dish.
Sprinkle additional chocolate chips generously over the top for extra bursts of chocolate flavor and visual appeal. Allow the mixture to sit for 10-15 minutes so the bread can fully absorb the custard.
Bake the Chocolate Bread Pudding
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) to ensure even, gentle cooking that prevents the custard from curdling while creating a perfectly set texture. This moderate temperature allows the pudding to cook through without burning the top.
Bake the assembled pudding for approximately 35-45 minutes or until the center is set and the top develops a lightly golden color. The pudding should spring back slightly when gently pressed in the center and a knife inserted should come out mostly clean.
Serve the chocolate bread pudding warm for the ultimate comfort food experience, optionally topped with a rich chocolate creme anglaise made by cooking any remaining custard slightly longer until it thickens to a pourable consistency.
Serving Suggestions
We recommend serving chocolate bread pudding fresh from the oven while it maintains that perfect balance of warm custard and golden-brown top. The contrast between the hot dessert and cold accompaniments creates an irresistible temperature play that enhances every bite.
Temperature Options
Warm service delivers the ultimate comfort food experience with the custard still silky and the chocolate elements perfectly melted. Cold service offers a different but equally delicious experience where the flavors have had time to meld and intensify overnight.
Perfect Toppings
Whipped cream provides a light and airy contrast to the rich chocolate custard base. Fresh raspberries add bright acidity that cuts through the dessert’s richness while contributing beautiful color. Vanilla ice cream creates the classic hot and cold combination that makes each spoonful memorable.
Sauce Enhancements
Chocolate sauce amplifies the dessert’s chocolate intensity for true chocolate lovers. White chocolate sauce offers a sweeter alternative that complements rather than competes with the dark chocolate flavors. These drizzled additions transform the pudding into a restaurant-quality presentation.
Decorative Garnishes
Almond bark pieces provide textural interest and a sophisticated nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate. Toasted nuts like pecans or hazelnuts add crunch and depth. Chocolate shavings create an elegant finishing touch that signals the indulgence waiting beneath.
Presentation Styles
Individual ramekin portions allow for personalized serving sizes and create an upscale dining experience. Family-style serving from the baking dish encourages sharing and maintains the homestyle comfort food appeal. Plating with multiple accompaniments lets guests customize their perfect bite.
Storage Instructions
Proper storage ensures your chocolate bread pudding maintains its rich flavor and creamy texture for days to come. We’ll guide you through the best methods to preserve this indulgent dessert.
Refrigerator Storage
We recommend allowing your chocolate bread pudding to cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. This prevents condensation from forming and keeps the texture intact.
Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer individual portions to an airtight container. Your chocolate bread pudding will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To reheat refrigerated portions, warm them in a 350°F oven until heated through or use the microwave for individual servings. The pudding tastes best when served warm with your favorite toppings.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing chocolate bread pudding allows you to enjoy this dessert weeks later with minimal quality loss. Start by cooling the baked pudding completely to room temperature.
Wrap the entire dish with plastic wrap first, then add a layer of aluminum foil for extra protection against freezer burn. Individual portions can be wrapped separately for convenient single servings.
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Freezer storage | 1-3 months | Best quality within 1 month |
| Thawing time | Overnight | Transfer to refrigerator |
| Reheating temperature | 350°F | Until warmed through |
Your frozen chocolate bread pudding will maintain its quality for up to 1 month, though it can be stored safely for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw the pudding overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat thawed portions in a 350°F oven until warmed through, or microwave individual slices for quick serving. The texture remains remarkably close to freshly baked when properly stored and reheated.
Tips for Perfect Chocolate Bread Pudding
Choose the Right Bread Foundation
We recommend using day-old bread as your foundation for optimal texture. Stale bread creates the perfect balance by soaking up our chocolate custard without becoming overly soggy. Let fresh bread sit out for several hours to achieve the ideal dryness level. Brioche, challah, and French bread work exceptionally well due to their rich texture and ability to absorb flavors thoroughly.
Select Quality Chocolate for Maximum Impact
High-quality chocolate significantly impacts your final dish’s flavor profile. We suggest using semi-sweet, unsweetened, or bittersweet chocolate varieties for the richest taste experience. The chocolate quality directly translates to the depth of flavor in every bite, so invest in premium options when possible.
Master the Chocolate Custard Technique
Heat your milk, cream, and vanilla extract combination until warm before adding chocolate. Stir the mixture continuously until the chocolate melts completely, creating a smooth base. We enhance the custard with espresso powder or ground cinnamon for deeper flavor complexity. The custard should be heated just until chocolate melts, as it will continue thickening during the baking process.
| Temperature Guidelines | Time | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 325°F (165°C) | 35-45 minutes | Optimal baking temperature |
| Warm custard | Until chocolate melts | Proper chocolate integration |
Perfect Your Assembly Process
Cube your bread into uniform pieces for even cooking and custard absorption. Mix some chocolate custard with the bread cubes first, then pour the remaining custard over the mixture. Ensure every piece of bread gets coated thoroughly for consistent texture throughout the pudding.
Achieve the Ideal Bake
Bake at 325°F (165°C) for the most consistent results. This moderate temperature allows the custard to set properly without overcooking the bread or creating a rubbery texture. The pudding is ready when the center is set and the top develops a golden color.
Create a Luxurious Chocolate Sauce
Transform remaining custard into crème anglaise by cooking it slightly longer until thick. This chocolate sauce serves as the perfect accompaniment when drizzled over warm bread pudding. The sauce adds an extra layer of indulgence to your dessert presentation.
Add Texture and Visual Appeal
Incorporate chocolate chips or chopped nuts for additional texture contrast. These elements provide delightful surprises in each bite while improving the overall eating experience. We scatter these additions throughout the bread mixture for even distribution.
Troubleshoot Common Issues
Strain your custard if lumps appear during preparation for a smoother final texture. This simple step ensures professional-quality results every time. Remember that bread pudding embraces a rustic appearance, so perfect uniformity isn’t necessary for an impressive presentation.
Variations
We love experimenting with different chocolate bread pudding variations to create unique flavor experiences. These adaptations allow us to transform our basic recipe into exciting new desserts that cater to different taste preferences.
Double Chocolate Version
Our double chocolate bread pudding delivers an intensely rich dessert that satisfies the most devoted chocolate enthusiasts. We incorporate both white and dark chocolate elements to create layers of complex chocolate flavor throughout the dish.
For this indulgent variation, we add 10 ounces of white chocolate chips directly into the bread mixture while preparing a luxurious chocolate sauce using semi-sweet chocolate chips. The white chocolate chips distribute evenly throughout the pudding, creating pockets of creamy sweetness that contrast beautifully with the dark chocolate custard base.
We recommend drizzling both white and dark chocolate sauces over each serving to maximize the chocolate experience. The combination creates an elegant presentation while delivering multiple chocolate flavor notes in every bite. This version works particularly well when we use rich breads like brioche or challah that can support the additional chocolate elements.
Fruit and Chocolate Combination
We enhance our chocolate bread pudding by incorporating fresh or dried fruits that complement the rich chocolate flavors. Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries work exceptionally well because their natural tartness balances the sweetness of the chocolate custard.
When we add fresh berries, we gently fold them into the bread mixture before pouring the custard to ensure even distribution. The berries release their juices during baking, creating beautiful color swirls and adding moisture to the final dessert. We typically use about 1 cup of mixed berries for our standard recipe size.
Dried fruits like cherries or cranberries offer another excellent option for this variation. We soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before adding them to the bread mixture, which helps them plump up and prevents them from becoming too chewy during baking. The concentrated fruit flavors intensify during the baking process, creating bursts of sweet and tart notes that elevate the overall chocolate experience.
Conclusion
We’ve shared everything you need to create this irresistible chocolate bread pudding that’ll become your go-to comfort dessert. From selecting the perfect day-old bread to mastering that silky chocolate custard this recipe delivers consistent results every time.
The beauty of this dessert lies in its flexibility – whether you’re serving it warm with vanilla ice cream for a cozy night in or presenting individual portions for an elegant dinner party. With proper storage techniques you can even prepare it ahead of time making it perfect for busy schedules.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with our suggested variations and make this recipe your own. Your kitchen will smell amazing and your guests will be asking for seconds. Give this chocolate bread pudding a try – we’re confident it’ll earn a permanent spot in your dessert rotation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of bread works best for chocolate bread pudding?
Day-old bread is ideal for chocolate bread pudding because it absorbs the custard better without falling apart. Brioche, challah, and French bread work exceptionally well due to their rich texture and ability to hold the chocolate custard. If using fresh bread, let it sit out for a few hours to dry slightly before using.
How long can I store chocolate bread pudding?
Chocolate bread pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days when covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to 3 months, though best quality is maintained within 1 month. Always cool completely before storing.
Can I make chocolate bread pudding ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the chocolate bread pudding up to 24 hours before baking. Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight, then bake as directed, adding 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the refrigerator. This actually helps the bread absorb more custard for better flavor.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover chocolate bread pudding?
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or warm larger portions in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent the top from over-browning. The pudding can be served warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
How do I know when chocolate bread pudding is done baking?
The pudding is done when a knife inserted in the center comes out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs, and the top is golden brown and set. It typically takes 35-45 minutes at 325°F. The center should be slightly jiggly but not liquid when gently shaken.
Can I use different types of chocolate in the recipe?
Absolutely! Semi-sweet chocolate chips work well, but you can experiment with dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate. For richer flavor, try using a combination of chocolates or add cocoa powder to intensify the chocolate taste without adding extra sweetness.
What are the best toppings for chocolate bread pudding?
Popular toppings include vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, fresh berries, powdered sugar, and chocolate shavings. For extra indulgence, try caramel sauce, chocolate sauce, or toasted nuts. The contrast of warm pudding with cold ice cream creates an especially delightful experience.
Can I make individual servings instead of one large dish?
Yes, individual ramekins create an elegant presentation perfect for dinner parties. Divide the mixture among 6-8 ramekins and reduce baking time to 25-30 minutes. This allows guests to have their own portion and makes serving easier for special occasions.
