Dark Chocolate Bread Pudding: The Ultimate Comfort Dessert Recipe

Introduction

Dark Chocolate Bread Pudding is a rich, comforting dessert that’s perfect for using up day-old bread. With a decadent chocolate custard soaked through soft bread cubes, this recipe offers a delicious twist on a classic favorite.

Ingredients

• 8 cups day-old bread, cubed (French bread or brioche works best)
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa or higher)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Optional toppings: whipped cream, chocolate sauce, or fresh berries

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Step 2: Place the cubed bread in a large mixing bowl.
3. Step 3: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk and heavy cream. Heat until just simmering, then remove from heat.
4. Step 4: Add the dark chocolate chips to the warm milk mixture, whisking until fully melted and smooth.
5. Step 5: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
6. Step 6: Gradually pour the chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, stirring constantly to avoid scrambling the eggs.
7. Step 7: Pour the chocolate custard over the cubed bread, gently folding to combine, ensuring all the bread is soaked.
8. Step 8: Allow the mixture to sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb the custard.
9. Step 9: Pour the bread mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
10. Step 10: Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is set and slightly golden.
11. Step 11: Remove from the oven and let cool for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use brioche for an extra rich, buttery texture.
• Try adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
• Substitute dark chocolate chips with bittersweet or semi-sweet for a milder chocolate flavor.
• Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh berries to balance the richness.

Storage

Store any leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warm, or gently warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old bread?

Day-old bread works best because it soaks up the custard without becoming too mushy. If using fresh bread, consider toasting it lightly to help it hold its shape.

Can I prepare this bread pudding in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the bread pudding and refrigerate it covered for up to 24 hours before baking. Just increase the baking time by a few minutes if baking straight from the fridge.

Dark Chocolate Bread Pudding: The Ultimate Comfort Dessert Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 106 reviews

• Author: Lana
• Total Time: 55-60 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

This Dark Chocolate Bread Pudding is a rich and comforting dessert featuring cubed day-old bread soaked in a luscious dark chocolate custard, baked to golden perfection. Made with high-quality dark chocolate, whole milk, and cream, this indulgent treat is perfect for chocolate lovers looking for a warm and satisfying dessert.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 8 cups day-old bread, cubed (French bread or brioche works best)
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa or higher)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Optional Toppings

• Whipped cream
• Chocolate sauce
• Fresh berries

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Bread: Place the cubed bread into a large mixing bowl, ensuring the pieces are evenly sized for consistent soaking.
3. Heat the Milk and Cream: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk and heavy cream, heating until just simmering but not boiling, then remove from heat.
4. Melt the Chocolate: Add the dark chocolate chips to the warm milk and cream mixture, whisking continuously until fully melted and smooth.
5. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
6. Combine Mixtures: Gradually pour the warm chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, stirring constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling and to create a smooth custard.
7. Combine with Bread: Pour the chocolate custard over the cubed bread, gently folding the mixture to ensure all pieces of bread are thoroughly soaked.
8. Let it Sit: Allow the soaked bread mixture to rest for 10-15 minutes so the bread can absorb the custard fully.
9. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the soaked bread mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out to an even layer.
10. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is set, slightly golden, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
11. Cool: Remove the pudding from the oven and allow it to cool for 10-15 minutes before serving, optionally topping with whipped cream, chocolate sauce, or fresh berries.

Notes

• Use day-old bread for the best texture and absorption of custard.
• Dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content provides a rich flavor without excessive sweetness.
• Letting the bread soak before baking ensures a moist and custardy pudding.
• Adjust the baking time slightly depending on your oven for optimal results.
• Optional toppings like whipped cream or berries add freshness and balance to the dessert.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: dark chocolate, bread pudding, dessert, baked custard, chocolate dessert, comfort food