Chocolate Bread Pudding
Indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of chocolate bread pudding, a delightful dessert that combines the creamy texture of custard with the sweetness of chocolate. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that satisfies sweet cravings with every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fill a 13 x 9-inch baking pan half full of hot tap water and place on the oven rack in the center of the oven.
- Heat the oven to 325°.
- Have ready 6 (6 ounce) custard cups or souffle dishes.
- In a medium size bowl, whisk eggs to blend yolks and whites.
- Whisk in milk, sugar, and vanilla until well blended.
- Place 1 slice of bread in the bottom of ungreased custard cups.
- Sprinkle with 1/2 tablespoon of chocolate chips.
- Add 2 slices of bread overlapping to fit and sprinkle with another 1/2 tablespoon of chips.
- Pour on about 1/2 cup of the milk mixture.
- Gently press down so slices begin to absorb the milk mixture. Place cups in the pan of hot water.
- Bake for 25 to 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brioche or challah bread instead of regular bread. If you want to reduce the sugar, you can substitute with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Adding a pinch of salt can enhance the chocolate flavor. For a twist, try incorporating nuts or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries, similar to what you might find in Grape-Nut Pudding.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chocolate bread pudding warm with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or a scoop of custard for a delicious dessert. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside fresh fruit or a light salad to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds or until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, ensuring they stay moist by covering with foil.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Bread Pudding contains roughly 1503 calories, with 23g protein, 261g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (106% of the Daily Value), calcium (97% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (92% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1071mg per serving (47% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While traditional white bread works well, using challah, brioche, or even whole grain bread can add unique flavors and textures. Just ensure the bread is somewhat stale to absorb the custard mixture effectively.
How do I know when the bread pudding is done baking?
The bread pudding is done when the edges are set but the center remains slightly jiggly. It will continue to firm up as it cools. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean, with a few moist crumbs attached.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bread pudding mixture ahead of time and assemble it in the custard cups. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake it just before serving. This is a great time-saver for gatherings or special occasions.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).