Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding
Chocolate chip bread pudding offers a warm, comforting dessert with gooey chocolate pockets and tender bread, perfect for cozy gatherings or family dinners. The rich vanilla and sweet chocolate make it a delightful treat suited for all ages, especially those craving a decadent, dessert-style breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine bread cubes and 1/4 cup chocolate chips in a greased 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- In a separate bowl, combine beaten eggs, sugar, salt, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Stir until well mixed.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes in the casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips over the top.
- Place the casserole dish in a pan of water to create a water bath.
- Bake at 350°F for one hour until set and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brioche or challah bread instead of white bread. You can substitute the chocolate chips with dried fruits like raisins or cherries for a different twist. To make it more festive, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. Ensure the bread cubes are well-soaked in the egg mixture for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chocolate chip bread pudding warm, drizzled with a bit of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an indulgent touch. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk. For a festive treat, consider serving it alongside Christmas Roll Cookies.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds or warm in an oven at 350°F until heated through. This dessert tastes great warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding contains roughly 609 calories, with 13g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), protein (26% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 whole grain bread instead of white bread?
Yes, whole grain bread can be used for a healthier option, but it may change the texture slightly. Make sure to cut it into small cubes and soak it well in the egg mixture to ensure it absorbs the liquid properly.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute the white bread with gluten-free bread. Ensure all other ingredients, like chocolate chips, are certified gluten-free. The baking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on it as it bakes.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the bread pudding the night before and refrigerate it. When you're ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before putting it in the oven. This will help it bake evenly.
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).