Few desserts are as indulgent, comforting, and effortlessly elegant as chocolate bread pudding. A dish that originated as a frugal way to use up stale bread has now become a gourmet delight that graces restaurant menus and family tables alike. This warm, custardy dessert transforms simple ingredients—buttery bread, rich chocolate, and velvety cream—into a dish that is as satisfying as it is easy to make.
Whether served as the perfect ending to a holiday meal, a decadent brunch dish, or simply a cozy dessert for a night in, chocolate bread pudding is a showstopper. The deep, luxurious chocolate flavor, combined with the soft-yet-slightly-crisp texture of baked bread, creates an experience that is nothing short of magical.
With the addition of a silky chocolate crème anglaise or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, every bite melts in your mouth. If you’re a chocolate lover looking for a simple yet impressive dessert, this is one recipe you’ll want to have on repeat.
Why Chocolate Bread Pudding Is the Ultimate Dessert
1. A Perfect Way to Use Leftover Bread
Have a loaf of brioche, challah, or King’s Hawaiian rolls that’s starting to dry out? Chocolate bread pudding is the best way to give it a second life. Unlike fresh bread, slightly stale bread absorbs the rich chocolate custard more effectively, resulting in a pudding that is deeply flavorful and indulgently soft.
2. Simple Ingredients, Luxurious Taste
Despite its restaurant-quality appeal, chocolate bread pudding is made with everyday pantry staples—eggs, milk, cream, sugar, and chocolate. There are no complicated techniques or special equipment needed, making it an ideal dessert for both beginner and experienced bakers.
3. Customizable to Fit Any Taste
One of the best things about this dessert is its versatility. You can tailor it to suit your preferences:
- Add espresso or coffee liqueur for a mocha-inspired twist.
- Mix in chopped nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips for texture.
- Drizzle it with caramel sauce, raspberry coulis, or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra special touch.
4. A Crowd-Pleasing Dessert for Any Occasion
From holiday gatherings to casual weeknight indulgences, chocolate bread pudding fits any setting. It can be made ahead of time, reheated easily, and served warm or cold, making it the perfect make-ahead dessert for entertaining.
5. Even Better the Next Day
Like many custard-based desserts, chocolate bread pudding tastes even better after sitting for a few hours or overnight. The flavors continue to develop, and the pudding becomes even more luscious and rich.
Ingredients
For the Bread Pudding
- 12 oz King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls or brioche bread – The soft, buttery base of the pudding
- 3 tbsp butter, plus more for greasing – Adds richness and moisture
- 2 eggs + 2 egg yolks – Creates a smooth custard texture
- 2 ½ cups whole milk – A creamy liquid base
- ½ cup heavy cream – Enhances richness
- ½ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the custard
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds depth and warmth
- ½ tsp salt – Balances sweetness
- 300g semi-sweet chocolate – Melts into the custard for deep chocolate flavor
- 1 tsp instant coffee (optional) – Intensifies the chocolate taste
- ½ cup chocolate chips or chopped chocolate (optional) – Adds texture and extra richness
Directions
- Preheat the Oven – Set to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 7×11-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Bread – Cube the Hawaiian rolls or brioche and arrange them in the dish.
- Make the Custard – Heat milk, cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla, salt, and chocolate, stirring until smooth.
- Assemble the Pudding – Pour the custard over the bread cubes, pressing gently to soak.
- Bake the Pudding – Bake for 30–35 minutes until set but slightly wobbly in the center.
- Make the Chocolate Crème Anglaise (Optional) – Heat reserved custard until slightly thickened, then strain for a smooth sauce.
- Serve & Enjoy – Drizzle with chocolate crème anglaise, whipped cream, or ice cream.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g
The Secret to the Best Chocolate Bread Pudding
1. Choose the Right Bread
The bread is the foundation of this dessert, so choosing the right type makes all the difference.
- Brioche or challah – Soft, buttery, and slightly sweet, these breads absorb the custard beautifully.
- King’s Hawaiian Rolls – Adds an extra hint of sweetness for a unique touch.
- French bread or sourdough – For a slightly chewier texture with a more rustic feel.
2. Use High-Quality Chocolate
Since chocolate is the star ingredient, it’s essential to use the best quality you can find. Semi-sweet or dark chocolate (around 60–70% cocoa) provides the perfect balance of sweetness and richness. You can also mix milk and dark chocolate for a more complex flavor.
3. Let the Bread Soak
For the ultimate custardy texture, allow the bread to soak in the chocolate mixture for at least 15–20 minutes before baking. This step ensures every piece is fully saturated, preventing dry spots in the final dish.
4. Don’t Overbake
A good bread pudding should be set but slightly wobbly in the center when removed from the oven. It will continue to firm up as it cools. Overbaking results in a dry, rubbery texture, so keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking.
5. Serve with a Complementary Sauce
A warm, decadent dessert like chocolate bread pudding deserves an equally delicious finishing touch. Some of the best toppings include:
- Chocolate crème anglaise – A silky, custard-based sauce that enhances the chocolate flavor.
- Whipped cream – Light and airy, it balances out the richness.
- Vanilla or coffee ice cream – The contrast between warm pudding and cold ice cream is irresistible.
- Fresh berries – Raspberries or strawberries add a refreshing tartness.
- Salted caramel drizzle – A touch of salt amplifies the chocolate’s depth.
Creative Variations of Chocolate Bread Pudding
1. Mocha Chocolate Bread Pudding
Add 1 teaspoon of espresso powder or a shot of espresso to the custard for a subtle coffee flavor that intensifies the chocolate.
2. Boozy Chocolate Bread Pudding
For an adult twist, stir in a splash of Baileys, Kahlúa, or Grand Marnier to the custard before baking. The alcohol adds warmth and depth.
3. Nutty Chocolate Bread Pudding
Fold in chopped pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts for added crunch and nutty richness.
4. Spiced Mexican Chocolate Bread Pudding
Mix in ½ teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne pepper to create a Mexican hot chocolate-inspired flavor.
5. White Chocolate Raspberry Bread Pudding
Swap dark chocolate for white chocolate, and swirl in fresh raspberries or raspberry preserves for a fruity twist.
FAQs About Chocolate Bread Pudding
1. Can I Make Chocolate Bread Pudding Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the pudding up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it before baking. This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard, resulting in an even more luscious texture.
2. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave or oven at 300°F.
3. Can I Freeze Chocolate Bread Pudding?
Absolutely! Freeze baked bread pudding for up to 3 months in an airtight container. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
4. Can I Use Dairy-Free Alternatives?
Yes! Replace the milk and cream with coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version. Use dairy-free chocolate for the custard.
5. Can I Use White Chocolate Instead?
Yes, but white chocolate is much sweeter than dark chocolate, so you may want to reduce the amount of sugar in the custard.
Conclusion: A Timeless Dessert Worth Every Bite
Chocolate bread pudding is the kind of dessert that brings comfort, nostalgia, and indulgence to the table. Whether served warm with a drizzle of crème anglaise or paired with a scoop of ice cream, it delivers a satisfying combination of textures and flavors in every bite.
This dessert is proof that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with new flavors, chocolate bread pudding is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will keep you coming back for more.
So, next time you have leftover bread and a chocolate craving, don’t let them go to waste—turn them into something truly unforgettable!
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Easy Chocolate Bread Pudding: Decadent Dessert Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort dessert with this Easy Chocolate Bread Pudding! Sweet, buttery bread is soaked in a rich chocolate custard, baked to perfection, and topped with a silky chocolate crème anglaise. Perfect for holidays, special dinners, or just treating yourself, this chocolate bread pudding is as simple to make as it is delicious. Serve it warm, with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an unforgettable dessert experience!
Ingredients
- 1 12-pack King’s Hawaiian Original Hawaiian Sweet Rolls (or 12 ounces of brioche bread), ideally dried out overnight
- 3 tablespoons butter, plus more for greasing the pan
- 2 eggs
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 ½ cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 300g semi-sweet chocolate (or a mix of milk and dark chocolate)
- 1 teaspoon instant coffee (optional)
- ½ cup chocolate chips or chopped chocolate (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 7×11-inch baking dish (glass or ceramic recommended) with butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cube the Bread
- Chop the King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls (or brioche bread) into large cubes, about 1.5–2 inches each.
- Spread the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Custard
- In a nonstick saucepan, combine the whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, eggs, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk thoroughly to break down the eggs.
- Add the semi-sweet chocolate and butter to the saucepan.
- Place the saucepan over medium-low heat and stir constantly until the chocolate and butter are fully melted and incorporated. Avoid overheating or thickening the custard—it will cook further in the oven.
Step 4: Assemble the Bread Pudding
- Sprinkle the optional chocolate chips or chopped chocolate over the bread cubes in the baking dish.
- Pour the chocolate custard evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are well-soaked.
- Reserve 1.5–2 cups of the custard for making a chocolate crème anglaise sauce later.
- Gently press down on the bread with a spatula to ensure all pieces are submerged and coated.
Step 5: Bake the Bread Pudding
- Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the pudding is set but slightly wobbly when shaken. Avoid overbaking, as the pudding will firm up as it cools.
Step 6: Prepare the Crème Anglaise Sauce
- While the pudding bakes, return the reserved custard to the stove over low heat.
- Stir constantly until the sauce begins to thicken slightly, about 3–5 minutes. Be careful not to let it boil.
- Strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps, creating a smooth, creamy chocolate crème anglaise.
Notes
- Use Stale Bread: Stale or dried-out bread works best for soaking up the custard. If your bread is fresh, toast the cubes in the oven at 250°F for 10 minutes.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dessert, add an extra tablespoon of sugar to the custard.
- Customizable Add-Ins: Add chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even a splash of liqueur (like Baileys or Kahlúa) for a unique twist.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F or microwave individual servings.
- Freezing Option: Freeze baked bread pudding for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
