Chocolate Cream Cheese Bread Pudding Recipe
Introduction
Chocolate Cream Cheese Bread Pudding is a rich, comforting dessert that combines the creamy tang of cream cheese with sweet chocolate chips baked into warm bread. It’s an easy treat perfect for cozy evenings or special occasions.
Ingredients
- Bread (about 4 cups, cubed)
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened)
- Chocolate chips (1 cup)
- Eggs (4 large)
- Milk (2 cups)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Step 2: In the baking dish, layer half of the cubed bread evenly. Dollop half of the cream cheese over the bread, followed by half of the chocolate chips. Repeat these layers with the remaining bread, cream cheese, and chocolate chips.
- Step 3: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until fully combined. Pour this egg mixture evenly over the layered bread and cream cheese.
- Step 4: Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to soak, then bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
- Step 5: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving warm.
Tips & Variations
- Use day-old or slightly stale bread for better absorption of the custard mixture.
- Mix in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
- Substitute half of the milk with cream for a richer custard.
- Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.
Storage
Store leftover bread pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until warm. To retain moisture, cover with a damp paper towel while reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use any type of bread for this pudding?
Yes, sturdy breads like French bread, brioche, or challah work best because they hold up well during soaking and baking.
Can I prepare the bread pudding ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can assemble the pudding the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake it straight from the refrigerator, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
PrintChocolate Cream Cheese Bread Pudding Recipe
This luxurious Chocolate Cream Cheese Bread Pudding combines soft bread, rich cream cheese, and melty chocolate chips for an indulgent dessert. Baked to golden perfection, the pudding is creamy and decadent, perfect for chocolate lovers seeking a warm and comforting treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Bread Pudding Base
- 6 cups of cubed day-old bread (preferably brioche or challah)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Custard Mixture
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the bread and cream cheese layers: In a greased baking dish, evenly layer half of the cubed bread, followed by half of the cream cheese cubes and chocolate chips. Repeat with the remaining bread, cream cheese, and chocolate chips to create two layers.
- Mix the custard: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined and smooth.
- Combine custard with bread mixture: Pour the egg and milk mixture evenly over the layered bread, cream cheese, and chocolate chips, allowing it to soak in thoroughly. Press down lightly with a spatula to incorporate the custard throughout the bread cubes.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to preheat while the custard soaks in.
- Bake the pudding: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the custard is set and the top is lightly golden. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and allow the pudding to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving to let it set and enhance the flavors.
Notes
- Use day-old bread for better absorption of the custard without becoming too soggy.
- You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark or milk chocolate according to preference.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to the custard for an enhanced flavor profile.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently before serving.
Keywords: Chocolate bread pudding, cream cheese dessert, baked chocolate dessert, easy bread pudding recipe, holiday dessert
