There’s something undeniably comforting about the smell of warm, chocolate-infused bread pudding wafting through the kitchen-an aroma that carries whispers of generations past and the simple joys of homemade desserts. “Timeless delight: Old-Fashioned Chocolate Bread Pudding Recipe” invites you to step into a world where humble ingredients transform into a rich, velvety treat that has stood the test of time. this classic dessert, with its luscious chocolate notes and tender custard-soaked bread, offers more than just sweetness; it’s a nostalgic journey that reconnects us with the essence of traditional cooking and the heartwarming satisfaction found in every spoonful. Join us as we unveil the secrets behind this enduring favorite and guide you through crafting a chocolate bread pudding that’s as indulgent as it is indeed timeless.
Chocolate bread pudding has long been revered as a comforting, soul-satisfying dessert. A timeless delight that marries rustic simplicity with decadent indulgence, chocolate bread pudding pulls you into its rich history and comforting warmth. Originating from humble leftover bread transformations in European kitchens, this dessert evolved over centuries into a luscious, chocolate-infused favorite. Each forkful carries whispers of tradition, rustic bakeries, and cozy family gatherings around the hearth.
Prep and Cook Time
Readiness: 20 minutes | Cooking: 45 minutes | Total: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield
Serves 6 generous portions
Difficulty Level
Easy to Medium – Ideal for both novice and seasoned home bakers
Selecting the Perfect Bread and Cocoa for Optimal Flavor
Choosing the right bread and cocoa is crucial to crafting a truly exceptional chocolate bread pudding.Opt for a dense, sturdy bread like challah, brioche, or a rustic French baguette-these soak up the custard without disintegrating. Day-old bread is perfect as it holds structure while absorbing the creamy blend.
For the chocolate component, use high-quality unsweetened or dark cocoa powder with deep, complex flavor notes. For added richness, complement the cocoa with finely chopped bittersweet chocolate chunks or chips. This layered chocolate approach will ensure every bite bursts with velvety decadence and balanced sweetness.
Ingredients
- 6 cups day-old challah or brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- ¾ cup bittersweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- Pinch of salt
- Butter (for greasing the baking dish)
Step by Step Guide to Crafting Creamy, Decadent Pudding
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously butter a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add richness.
- In a medium saucepan,warm milk and heavy cream over low heat until just steaming (do not boil).Remove from heat to avoid scorching.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, cinnamon (if using), and vanilla extract until smooth and well blended.
- Gradually pour the warm milk and cream mixture into the egg mixture while whisking continuously to temper the eggs and create a silky custard base.
- Place the cubed bread into the prepared dish, distributing it evenly. Sprinkle the bittersweet chocolate chips evenly over the bread cubes.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, gently pressing the cubes down to soak thoroughly. Let it sit for 15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the custard fully – this step guarantees a luscious, creamy texture.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for an additional 15 minutes until the pudding is set around the edges and has a slightly wobbly center.
- Allow the pudding to cool slightly before serving, which helps it firm up texturally while maintaining its creamy core.
Expert Tips for Serving and Elevating Your Chocolate Bread Pudding
Serve warm, topped with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to create a harmonious contrast of hot and cold. A drizzle of homemade caramel sauce or a spoonful of chantilly cream will elevate this classic dessert to showstopper status.
Garnish thoughtfully with fresh raspberries, a sprig of mint, or shaved chocolate for color and added texture. For an adventurous twist, spike the custard with a tablespoon of your favorite liqueur like Grand Marnier or Kahlúa.
Chef’s Notes
- For gluten-free options, experiment with gluten-free brioche or challah bread varieties.
- Ensure the custard is warm but not hot to avoid scrambling the eggs during mixing.
- To make ahead, assemble the pudding the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh just before serving for ultimate convenience.
- For an even richer pudding, substitute half the milk with coconut or almond milk and adjust the sugar accordingly.
- If your bread pudding seems too dry,a light brushing of extra cream or milk before baking adds moisture.
| Nutritional Info (per serving) | Calories | Protein (g) | Carbs (g) | Fat (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chocolate Bread Pudding | 410 | 8 | 54 | 18 |
For more decadent dessert recipes that warm the soul, explore our Classic Dessert Recipes collection.Dive deeper into the legacy of chocolate with the Fine Chocolate Industry Association for an enriching history on chocolate’s origins.
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Q&A
Q&A: timeless Delight – Old-Fashioned Chocolate Bread Pudding Recipe
Q1: What makes this chocolate bread pudding “old-fashioned”?
A: This recipe harks back to a simpler time when desserts were crafted with love, pantry staples, and minimal fuss. It relies on classic ingredients like day-old bread, rich cocoa, and whole milk, embracing tradition over trendy tweaks to deliver comforting nostalgia in every bite.
Q2: Why use day-old bread for bread pudding? Can fresh bread work too?
A: Day-old bread is slightly dried out, which helps it absorb the custard thoroughly without turning soggy or mushy. While fresh bread can be used in a pinch, it may yield a less structured pudding. For that ideal texture, letting the bread sit out overnight is key.
Q3: How does chocolate enhance the traditional bread pudding experience?
A: Chocolate adds a luscious depth of flavor and a velvety richness that elevates this humble dessert into something decadent yet approachable. The bittersweet cocoa balances the sweetness, and melted chocolate ribbons through the custard create delightful pockets of gooey bliss.
Q4: can I customize this recipe with different types of chocolate or add-ins?
A: Absolutely! Dark, milk, or even white chocolate can be used depending on your preference. For extra flair, consider folding in toasted nuts, dried cherries, or a splash of espresso. Just remember to keep the core balance of custard and bread intact to maintain that perfect texture.
Q5: What’s the secret to achieving the perfect bread pudding consistency?
A: The magic lies in the custard soak and baking time.The bread should soak long enough to absorb the creamy custard but not so long it breaks down entirely. Baking until the pudding is just set-still slightly wobbly in the center-ensures a moist yet sliceable texture that’s pure comfort.
Q6: How should this dessert be served for maximum enjoyment?
A: Bread pudding shines warm from the oven,ideally accompanied by a drizzle of vanilla sauce,a scoop of vanilla ice cream,or even a dollop of whipped cream. Its gooey, chocolatey warmth paired with something cool and creamy creates a harmonious contrast that’s simply irresistible.
Q7: Is this recipe suitable for making ahead of time?
A: Yes! Bread pudding actually deepens in flavor when chilled and reheated. Prepare it the day before,store it in the fridge,and gently warm it in the oven before serving. It’s perfect for entertaining or cozy nights in when you want a quick yet classic dessert ready to go.
Q8: Any tips for scaling this recipe up or down?
A: Definitely. The recipe is wonderfully flexible. Just maintain the bread-to-custard ratio-roughly one cup of custard for every two cups of bread cubes-and adjust baking time slightly depending on your dish size. Smaller portions bake faster,so keep an eye out to avoid drying out.
This Q&A aims to illuminate the charm and technique behind the “Timeless Delight” old-fashioned chocolate bread pudding, inviting both novices and seasoned home cooks to savor every luscious morsel.
In Retrospect
As the last forkful of this old-fashioned chocolate bread pudding melts away, it’s clear that some recipes transcend time, weaving together history and flavor into a comforting embrace. Whether shared around a bustling family table or savored in quiet moments, this timeless delight reminds us that simple ingredients, when thoughtfully combined, create memories as rich as the dessert itself. So next time you seek a sweet retreat from the modern rush, let this classic recipe be your invitation to indulge in a taste of the past-because some pleasures, like good company and great chocolate pudding, never go out of style.
