Decadent Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding Recipe

Introduction

This Decadent Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding is a rich, comforting dessert perfect for any occasion. It combines buttery sweet bread with creamy custard, melty chocolate, and tangy cream cheese for an irresistible treat.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf (about 1 pound) sweet bread (like brioche or challah), torn into 1-inch pieces
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 8 ounces cream cheese, chilled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1 1/2 cups dark chocolate chunks or chips, divided
• Unsalted butter, for greasing the baking dish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter. Scatter the torn bread pieces evenly in the prepared dish.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and well combined.
3. Step 3: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread in the baking dish. Gently press down on the bread pieces to ensure they absorb the liquid fully. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or cover and refrigerate for 2 hours or overnight for the best results.
4. Step 4: After soaking, gently fold in the cream cheese cubes and 1 cup of the dark chocolate chunks, distributing them evenly.
5. Step 5: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of dark chocolate chunks over the top of the bread pudding.
6. Step 6: Bake for 45-55 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is set but still slightly jiggly when shaken gently. Avoid overbaking to keep a gooey center.
7. Step 7: Remove from the oven and let cool for 15-20 minutes before serving. Serve warm to enjoy the creamy, gooey texture.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, substitute half the whole milk with additional heavy cream.
• Use leftover day-old bread for better texture as it soaks up the custard more effectively.
• Try adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
• Swap dark chocolate for semi-sweet or milk chocolate depending on your preference.

Storage

Store leftover bread pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) or in the microwave until warmed through. Avoid overheating to preserve the creamy texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this bread pudding ahead of time?

Yes, soaking the bread overnight in the custard in the refrigerator improves the texture and flavor. The prepared pudding can also be assembled earlier and baked just before serving.

What type of bread works best for this recipe?

Sweet breads like brioche or challah are ideal because they soak up the custard well while adding a rich flavor. Avoid very dense or crusty breads to maintain a soft, creamy center.