Name: Decadent Chocolate Bread Pudding That Everyone Will Love
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 205 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Semi-Sweet Chocolate (Chopped, reserve some for topping.); 2 cups Whole Milk (Substitute with heavy cream or almond milk if desired.); 3/4 cup Sugar (Brown sugar can be used for deeper flavor.); 1/4 cup Cocoa Powder (Unsweetened is recommended.); 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter (Can be replaced with coconut oil for dairy-free.); 1/4 cup Bourbon (Omit or substitute with coffee for non-alcoholic.); 1 tsp Cinnamon (Optional, adds warmth.); 4 Large Eggs (Essential for binding.); 1/4 tsp Salt (Balances sweetness.); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Use pure for best flavor.); 4 cups Challah Bread Cubes (Can substitute with brioche or sturdy French bread.)

As I rummaged through my pantry one rainy afternoon, a forgotten loaf of challah caught my eye. Instead of letting it go stale, I decided to transform it into something luxurious and heartwarming: Dark Chocolate Bread Pudding. For anyone who adores chocolate, this rich dessert is a dream come true, with velvety chocolate custard soaking into sweet, pillowy bread. Not only does this recipe serve as the perfect comfort food, but it’s also impressively easy to whip up ahead of time or customize with your favorite spirits. Wouldn’t it be delightful to indulge in this warm, chocolatey treat topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream? Let’s dive into the world of homemade decadence!

Why Is This Chocolate Bread Pudding Irresistible?

Luscious, Rich Flavor: Every bite of this chocolate bread pudding is a warm embrace of deep, velvety chocolate that melts in your mouth. Simplicity: With just a few ingredients, this dish comes together effortlessly, making it a perfect choice for both novice and seasoned chefs. Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it in advance and save time for your guests; this pudding can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. Customizable Delights: Whether you prefer bourbon, rum, or simply a splash of brewed coffee, the options are endless! And if you’re in the mood for something fruity, consider a twist with a recipe like White Chocolate Cranberry. Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: This dessert is a guaranteed hit at any gathering, just like my popular Eggnog Bread Pudding. Treat yourself, and let the indulgence begin!

Chocolate Bread Pudding Ingredients

• Perfect for your delicious chocolate bread pudding creation.

For the Custard

Semi-Sweet Chocolate – Provides rich chocolate flavor and a decadent texture; swap for dark chocolate for an even deeper taste.
Whole Milk – Adds creaminess to the custard; substitute with heavy cream for a richer pudding or almond milk for a dairy-free option.
Sugar – Sweetens the dish; brown sugar can be used for a deeper, more caramelized flavor.
Cocoa Powder – Enhances the chocolate flavor; stick with unsweetened for best results.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; can be replaced with coconut oil for a dairy-free choice.
Bourbon – Imparts depth and warmth; substitute with brewed coffee or simply omit for a non-alcoholic version.
Cinnamon – Brings warm, aromatic undertones; optional but adds a lovely zing.
Large Eggs – Binds the custard together for a perfect texture; no substitutions recommended.
Salt – Balances out sweetness; essential to enhance the overall flavor.
Vanilla Extract – Adds flavor complexity; opt for pure vanilla extract for the best outcome.

For the Base

Challah Bread Cubes – Forms the hearty base of the pudding with a deliciously sweet flavor; can also use brioche or sturdy French bread for lovely results.

This delightful combination of ingredients guarantees a heavenly chocolate bread pudding that will excite any chocolate lover!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Bread Pudding

Step 1: Prepare Chocolate
Begin by chopping the semi-sweet chocolate into ¼-inch chunks. Reserve about ⅓ cup of these chunks for later use as a topping. Place the remaining chocolate in a medium bowl and set aside, ready to meet the warm custard mixture soon.

Step 2: Make Custard
In a saucepan, combine whole milk, sugar, and cocoa powder over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring until the sugar dissolves and the chocolate blends well. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the unsalted butter, bourbon, and cinnamon until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Mix Eggs
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the large eggs, salt, and vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually pour the warm chocolate custard mixture into the eggs while whisking vigorously to prevent scrambling. Take your time with this step to ensure a creamy, smooth consistency for your chocolate bread pudding.

Step 4: Combine with Bread
Add the cubed challah bread to the warm chocolate custard, ensuring all the pieces are coated evenly. Allow the bread to soak in the custard mixture for at least 2 hours; for an even richer flavor, cover and refrigerate overnight to let the chocolate bread pudding absorb all the luscious custard.

Step 5: Preheat Oven
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 2-quart baking dish lightly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. This is an essential step for achieving a beautifully set and golden chocolate bread pudding.

Step 6: Bake
Transfer the soaked bread and custard mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved chocolate chunks evenly over the top, enhancing the visual appeal. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until puffed and set with a glossy surface. The pudding should feel firm but soft to the touch.

Step 7: Cool & Serve
Once baked, remove the chocolate bread pudding from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. This cooling period helps the pudding to set even more. Serve it warm, and for a delightful contrast in flavor and texture, consider topping it with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream!

What to Serve with Dark Chocolate Bread Pudding

Indulging in rich, chocolatey goodness is even more delightful when paired with complementary dishes that heighten the experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness and cold temperature contrast beautifully with the warm, decadent pudding, enhancing every spoonful.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a lovely touch of sweetness and creaminess to each bite.
Fresh Berries: Tartness from fresh raspberries or strawberries creates a delightful balance, brightening the rich chocolate flavors beautifully.
Espresso or Coffee: The strong, bold flavors of coffee awaken the palate, enhancing the chocolate notes and providing a comforting beverage pairing.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over the pudding introduces extra sweetness and a luscious texture, taking your dessert to new heights.
Chocolate Sauce: For true chocolate lovers, adding a drizzle of rich chocolate sauce deepens the indulgence and enhances the dessert’s already tantalizing flavor.
Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats bring a tropical flair, and their sweetness complements the chocolate pudding without overpowering it.
Nutty Flavors: Consider serving with toasted pecans or hazelnuts for added crunch and to introduce a new texture amidst the smooth pudding.
Mint Tea: A fragrant mint tea can cleanse the palate post-dessert, refreshing your senses after the chocolate richness.
Red Wine: A glass of robust red wine, like a Cabernet, pairs nicely, contrasting against the sweetness while enhancing the dessert’s complexity.

Make Ahead Options

These Indulgent Dark Chocolate Bread Pudding preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the pudding and let it soak for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator, allowing the bread to absorb the rich chocolate custard flavors fully. To prepare ahead, simply follow steps 1 to 4, then cover and refrigerate the mixture overnight. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C), pour the mixture into your greased baking dish, sprinkle with reserved chocolate, and bake as instructed until it is set and puffed. This method ensures you enjoy restaurant-quality chocolate bread pudding with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Bread Pudding

Fridge: Keep leftover chocolate bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven for a warm treat anytime.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cooled pudding tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To enjoy your frozen chocolate bread pudding, reheat in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. This keeps it soft and preserves its delicious texture.

Expert Tips for Chocolate Bread Pudding

Slow Egg Mixing: Pour the warm chocolate custard slowly into the eggs while whisking vigorously to prevent scrambling. This ensures a smooth custard texture.
Stale Bread Works Best: Using stale challah or brioche allows for better absorption of the custard, making your chocolate bread pudding rich and flavorful.
Chill for Flavor: For the best taste, let the mixture soak overnight in the fridge. This enhances the pudding’s chocolate depth and overall texture.
Even Baking: Bake the pudding until it’s puffed and set, checking for a slightly firm texture on top to avoid an overly soupy center.
Customize Liquors: Feel free to replace bourbon with rum or brandy for a unique twist—just remember to balance flavors accordingly.

Chocolate Bread Pudding Variations

Feel free to explore these variations and make this dessert your own with delightful twists and substitutions!

Liquor Options: Substitute bourbon with rum or brandy for a different flavor profile. Each spirit adds its own unique warmth.
Creamy Delight: Replace half of the milk with heavy cream for an even richer custard. The result is an ultra-luxurious texture that elevates indulgence.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts for unexpected crunch. They will complement the softness of the pudding beautifully, giving you that delightful contrast.
Fruity Twist: Consider incorporating dried fruits like cherries or raisins for a sweet, chewy surprise. The fruitiness pairs wonderfully with the chocolate for an exciting flavor burst.
Signature Spice: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a sprinkle of espresso powder for an intriguing depth of flavor. It’s an easy way to enhance your pudding and get your taste buds dancing.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk and replace butter with coconut oil for a delightful dairy-free version. You won’t miss the creaminess one bit!
Breakfast Version: Turn this dessert into a brunch treat by adding toasted shredded coconut and serving it with a dollop of Greek yogurt. You’ll have a guilt-free yet decadent start to your day.
Chocolate Variations: Swap semi-sweet chocolate for dark chocolate or even white chocolate for a completely different experience. Each offers a unique profile—try them all!

These creative ideas can make your chocolate bread pudding a new experience every time! Don’t forget to accompany your treat with a scoop of ice cream for extra indulgence, just as you would with my delightful Cake Chocolate Peanut or a gorgeous slice of Cinnamon Spiced Apple Bread. Enjoy your kitchen adventures!

Chocolate Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best bread for chocolate bread pudding?
Absolutely! Using challah or brioche is ideal because their rich textures absorb the custard beautifully. If you’re in a pinch, sturdy French bread works too. Stale bread is actually preferred as it soaks up the custard even better, giving you a richer flavor and texture.

How should I store leftover chocolate bread pudding?
Very simply! Place your leftover chocolate bread pudding in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat the portions in the microwave or pop them in the oven for a couple of minutes to bring back that fresh warmth.

Can I freeze chocolate bread pudding? How?
Yes, you can! To freeze your chocolate bread pudding, first allow it to cool completely. Then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This keeps it safe from freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.

What should I do if my chocolate bread pudding is too dry?
If you find your chocolate bread pudding is dry, it might be due to over-baking. To prevent this, keep an eye on it during the last 10 minutes of baking—you’re aiming for a slightly firm surface but a custardy inside. If you suspect it’s dry already, consider serving it warm with a drizzle of cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to add moisture and enhance flavor.

Are there any allergy considerations for this chocolate bread pudding?
Certainly! This recipe contains eggs and dairy, so if you have allergies, consider substitutes such as using almond milk instead of whole milk or coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version. Always check the labels on your ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs. Enjoying a delicious chocolate treat should be safe for everyone!

Can I customize the flavors of my chocolate bread pudding?
The more the merrier! You can certainly customize the flavors by swapping out the bourbon for rum or brandy for a delightful twist. If you’re not into alcohol, consider using brewed coffee instead—it adds a rich depth to the chocolate. Plus, tossing in some chopped nuts or dried fruits can give an extra layer of texture and taste!