As I stood in my kitchen, the warm, sweet aroma of baking bread filled the air, bringing back memories of cozy family dinners and laughter. This Decadent Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding is my go-to comfort food that takes just a touch of effort to create a truly indulgent dessert. The combination of rich dark chocolate melting into creamy, tangy cream cheese results in layers of gooey perfection that’s impossible to resist. Not only is this recipe a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also a fantastic way to transform leftover bread into something truly special. Ready to wrap up your day with a slice of nostalgia? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Ready for a delicious dessert experience?
Comforting Goodness: This Decadent Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding is the ultimate comfort food, enveloping you in rich flavors and a cozy texture. Gooey Perfection: The melted chocolate and cream cheese create luscious pockets, making each bite a decadent treat. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for any home cook. Versatile Variations: Feel free to customize it with spices, fruits, or nuts, creating your own signature indulgence. Plus, you can enjoy it warm, topped with ice cream, enhancing the experience even further!
Decadent Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding Ingredients
For the Bread Base
• Sweet Bread (Brioche or Challah) – Provides rich, buttery flavor and texture; absorbs custard well. Substitution note: Can use day-old croissants or sturdy white bread.
• Large Eggs – Binds ingredients, adds richness, and helps set the pudding. Ensure eggs are at room temperature for better emulsification.
For the Creamy Custard
• Whole Milk – Contributes creaminess and moisture to the custard. Low-fat versions can be used but will slightly alter richness.
• Heavy Cream – Adds decadence and a creamy mouthfeel. For a lighter option, may substitute with half-and-half.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the pudding and enhances flavors. Brown sugar can add a deeper taste.
• Vanilla Extract – Provides aromatic depth, enhancing the overall flavor. Consider using vanilla bean for a more intense flavor.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and elevates flavors. Never omit; it’s crucial for taste.
For the Decadent Filling
• Cream Cheese – Offers tangy flavor and creamy texture; cut into cubes for melting pockets of richness. Can substitute with dairy-free cream cheese for a non-dairy version.
• Dark Chocolate Chunks or Chips – Melts into rich pockets of chocolate flavor, elevating the dessert. Use chocolate with at least 60-70% cocoa for the best results; can mix with milk chocolate or white chocolate for variety.
For Finishing Touches
• Unsalted Butter – Used for greasing the baking dish to prevent sticking. Do not substitute with salted butter, as it will alter the flavor.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Decadent Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, generously grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with unsalted butter. This will ensure that your Decadent Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding doesn’t stick, allowing for easy removal and serving later on.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Tear your sweet bread, like brioche or challah, into bite-sized pieces, about 1 inch in size. Evenly distribute these pieces in your prepared baking dish, ensuring they cover the bottom well. This base will absorb the custard, so it’s important to have an even layer for excellent texture throughout the pudding.
Step 3: Whisk the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, combine the large eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk these together until you achieve a smooth and creamy mixture, without any visible lumps. This custard will provide the rich, gooey flavor that defines your Decadent Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding.
Step 4: Combine the Mixtures
Pour the custard mixture over the prepared bread pieces, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Use your hands or a spatula to gently press the bread down into the custard, letting it soak. Allow this to sit for at least 30 minutes; if you have time, refrigerate for up to 24 hours for optimal soaking and flavor infusion.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Chocolate
After the soaking time, stir in the cubes of cream cheese along with 1 cup of dark chocolate chunks. Gently fold these ingredients into the custard-soaked bread until they’re well incorporated, ensuring that you have pockets of melty chocolate and creamy cheese throughout your Decadent Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding.
Step 6: Top with Remaining Chocolate
Sprinkle the remaining dark chocolate on top of the pudding mixture, allowing for extra chocolatey goodness as it bakes. This will melt into a rich a layer as your dessert cooks. If desired, give the top a gentle press to help it adhere to the pudding below, enhancing the texture of each bite.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the center is slightly jiggly. The Decadent Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding continues to set as it cools, so don’t worry if it looks a bit wobbly when you first take it out.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove your bread pudding from the oven and let it cool for 15-20 minutes. This cooling period allows the custard to set fully, creating that perfect gooey texture. Slice into generous portions and serve warm, perhaps with a scoop of ice cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for that extra touch of indulgence.
Make Ahead Options
These Decadent Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the entire mixture up to 24 hours ahead of time; simply follow the steps up to the soaking point, then cover the dish and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the final result. When you’re ready to bake, simply add in the cream cheese and chocolate, then pop it in the oven. To maintain the quality, avoid adding the chocolate topping until just before baking. You’ll enjoy a rich, gooey dessert with minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or cozy nights in!
Expert Tips for Decadent Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding
- Thorough Soaking: Allow the bread to soak in the custard mixture for at least 30 minutes to ensure a rich, gooey texture. Don’t rush this step!
- Jiggle Test: Before pulling it out of the oven, give the pudding a gentle shake; it should still slightly wobble, indicating it’s perfectly set.
- Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on your bread pudding as it bakes. Remember, it continues to set as it cools, so take it out while it’s still a bit jiggle!
- Use Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality dark chocolate and pure vanilla extract. It makes a noticeable difference in this Decadent Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding.
- Cooling Patience: Let the pudding cool for 15-20 minutes before serving. This waiting time helps the custard firm up, creating that perfect gooey mouthfeel.
Decadent Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on your Decadent Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding and make it your own!
- Milk Chocolate: Swap dark chocolate for creamy milk chocolate for a sweeter, softer flavor. This twist offers a luscious melt that kids and adults will adore!
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to add a warming heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness. This unexpected flavor combination is sure to surprise and delight!
- Nutty Crunch: Toss in some toasted pecans or walnuts for added texture and a lovely nuttiness that harmonizes with the chocolate. The crunch will create a delightful contrast to the creamy pudding.
- Fruity Bliss: Add in fresh or frozen raspberries, cherries, or sliced bananas for a fruity burst. These juicy additions not only enhance flavor but also add a bright pop of color to your dessert!
- Caramel Swirl: Drizzle some salted caramel sauce through the custard mixture before baking to elevate the pudding with a sweet, buttery layer. It takes the decadence to a whole new level!
- Herbal Infusion: For a unique twist, add a touch of fresh mint or basil to your custard mixture. These herbs will lend a refreshing note that brightens the rich flavors wonderfully.
- Cinnamon Spice: Sprinkle in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor perfect for chilly days. The spice beautifully complements the creamy filling, creating an inviting aroma as it bakes.
- Cheese Swap: Use a flavored cream cheese, like chive or herb, for a savory twist to an otherwise sweet dessert. It adds an intriguing layer of flavor that may become your new favorite!
Feel inspired? With just a few simple swaps, you can create a unique version of this comforting favorite. For even more delicious ideas (like pairing it with Cranberry Cream Cheese or drizzling it with Garlic Butter Shrimp), let your creativity shine!
Storage Tips for Decadent Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This keeps the delicious gooey texture intact while preventing it from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, cut portions, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 1 month. To enjoy later, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, gently reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Enjoy that decadent chocolate flavor again!
Make-Ahead: Prepare the bread pudding up to the point of baking, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This allows flavors to meld beautifully before cooking.
What to Serve with Decadent Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding
Enhance your dessert experience by pairing this sweet treat with complementary sides and flavors.
- Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: The creamy, cool texture offers a delightful contrast to the warm, gooey pudding. A classic choice!
- Fresh Berries: Raspberries or strawberries add a juicy burst of sweetness and a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate. Their tartness balances out the flavors beautifully.
- Homemade Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream provides a luscious touch that rounds out the dessert’s richness. It’s a decadent yet simple addition.
- Caramel Drizzle: A warm, buttery caramel sauce enhances the pudding with a sweet, sticky delight that will have everyone coming back for more. Just a little drizzle is all it takes!
- Chocolate Sauce: For true chocolate lovers, an extra drizzle of melted chocolate elevates the experience and creates an indulgent double chocolate treat. Pairing it with ice cream is simply irresistible!
- Fruit Coulis: Creating a raspberry or blueberry coulis introduces a tangy element that cuts through the richness, adding a splash of color and flavor to each bite.
- Toasted Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts bring a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts with the softness of the bread pudding. The texture adds a new dimension that’s delightful!
- Sweet Dessert Wine: A glass of dessert wine, like a late-harvest Riesling, brings a sweet, fruity note to enhance the decadent flavors of the pudding. Cheers to indulgence!
- Coffee or Espresso: A warm, robust cup of coffee complements the rich chocolate, enhancing the overall flavor experience while providing a comforting, cozy vibe.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: For a romantic touch, these bite-sized treats add a burst of flavor and elegance to your dessert presentation, delighting both the eyes and taste buds.
Decadent Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs
What type of bread works best for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using sweet bread like brioche or challah as they provide a rich, buttery flavor and absorb the custard beautifully. If you’re in a pinch, day-old croissants or sturdy white bread will also work.
How should I store leftover bread pudding?
After enjoying this Decadent Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s sealed well to maintain its gooey texture and avoid drying out.
Can I freeze the bread pudding for later?
Yes, indeed! Allow the pudding to cool completely, then cut portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can freeze it for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
What’s the best way to know when the bread pudding is done baking?
The ‘jiggle test’ is your best friend here! After 45-55 minutes of baking, gently shake the baking dish; it should have a slight jiggle in the center. It’s perfectly okay if it looks a bit wobbly—remember, it will set more as it cools, achieving that dreamy gooeyness!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Certainly! If you need a dairy-free option, you can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free variety and use coconut milk or almond milk instead of whole milk. Just be mindful of cross-contamination if you’re dealing with allergies, so double-check all packaged ingredients used.
Decadent Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding to Savor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with unsalted butter.
- Tear the sweet bread into bite-sized pieces and evenly distribute them in the prepared baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
- Pour the custard mixture over the bread pieces, gently pressing down to soak. Let sit for at least 30 minutes.
- Stir in the cubes of cream cheese and dark chocolate chunks, folding gently.
- Sprinkle the remaining dark chocolate on top and press gently to adhere.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes until golden brown and slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool for 15-20 minutes before serving warm with optional toppings.
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