As I stood in my kitchen, the rich aroma of melting dark chocolate gently enveloped me, transporting me to dessert heaven. This Decadent Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding is not just a recipe; it’s an easy escape to comfort food bliss. With its delightful combination of creamy texture and chocolatey goodness, it makes for the perfect centerpiece at gatherings or a sweet end to a cozy evening at home. Plus, the simplicity of preparation means you can whip this up without breaking a sweat. Are you ready to discover how to create this irresistible, gooey delight? Let’s dive in!
Why is this bread pudding irresistible?
Decadent flavors: The fusion of rich dark chocolate and tangy cream cheese creates an unforgettable taste that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Effortless preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy this indulgent dessert without the stress — perfect for both novice and experienced cooks!
Crowd-pleasing delight: Serve it warm at gatherings, and watch as friends and family rave about this comforting treat, perhaps alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.
Customizable options: Feel free to swap ingredients, like replacing dark chocolate with white or adding your favorite nuts for a delightful crunch—each variation is a new adventure!
Gooey perfection: Allowing it to cool slightly results in a dreamy, creamy texture that’s nothing short of heavenly.
Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding Ingredients
For the Base
• Sweet Bread (Brioche or Challah) – Provides the perfect structure and richness for soaking in custard; day-old croissants or white sandwich bread work as substitutes.
• Large Eggs – Binds the mixture together and adds richness to the pudding.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dish and balances the chocolate’s richness.
• Salt – Enhances sweetness and intensifies the chocolate flavor.
For the Custard
• Whole Milk – Contributes creaminess and moisture to the pudding.
• Heavy Cream – Adds a luxurious mouthfeel; half-and-half can be used for a lighter alternative.
• Vanilla Extract – Infuses aromatic depth and elevates the overall flavor.
For the Indulgence
• Cream Cheese – Provides tanginess and creaminess, melting beautifully into the pudding.
• Dark Chocolate Chunks or Chips – Creates luscious pockets of intense chocolate flavor; choose high-quality chocolate with at least 60-70% cocoa for the best results.
• Unsalted Butter – Greases the baking dish, ensuring the pudding doesn’t stick during baking.
With these ingredients at hand, you’re just a few steps away from making the ultimate Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding that will leave everyone craving more!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin your Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding journey by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, take a moment to lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with unsalted butter, ensuring it’s coated well to prevent your delicious pudding from sticking later.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Tear your sweet bread, such as brioche or challah, into 1-inch pieces. Distribute these fragrant, pillowy morsels evenly in the greased baking dish, creating a solid base that will soak up all the rich custard. This step is essential for an even texture in your decadent bread pudding.
Step 3: Mix the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the large eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. The blending of these rich ingredients will result in a luscious custard that envelops your bread, infusing it with flavor and creating the ideal texture.
Step 4: Soak the Bread
Pour the creamy custard mixture over the torn bread pieces, gently pressing down with a fork or your fingers to ensure the bread absorbs every delicious drop. Allow the mixture to soak for at least 30 minutes, though letting it rest in the refrigerator for 2 hours or even overnight will enhance flavor and texture significantly.
Step 5: Add Cream Cheese and Chocolate
After soaking, stir in the cubed cream cheese and 1 cup of dark chocolate chunks, folding gently to distribute these indulgent additions throughout the mixture. You’ll want to feel the creamy pockets of cheese and chocolate blend into the bread, setting the stage for a rich and gooey dessert.
Step 6: Bake the Pudding
Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chunks generously on top for an extra treat, then place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is still slightly jiggly. This visual cue ensures that your Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding remains perfectly gooey inside.
Step 7: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, allow your decadent pudding to cool for 15-20 minutes before serving. This short wait is crucial for the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a tender, creamy dessert that’s ready to be devoured warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
What to Serve with Decadent Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding
As you tempt taste buds with this luscious dessert, consider these delightful pairings to complete a memorable meal.
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Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: A classic companion, its creamy, smooth texture beautifully balances the richness of the bread pudding. The temperature contrast makes each bite heavenly.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a bright burst of flavor that cuts through the decadence of chocolate. Their tartness harmonizes well with the sweet richness.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over the serving adds an extra layer of indulgence. The sweet, buttery flavor enhances the chocolate and cream cheese, creating a luxurious finish.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream offers a fresh, fluffy contrast to the dense pudding. Top it off with a sprinkle of cocoa for a touch of elegance.
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Mint Tea: A cup of soothing mint tea provides a refreshing cleanse for the palate. Its herbal notes complement the rich, smooth chocolate, enhancing the overall experience.
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Chocolate Martini: For an adult twist, consider serving a chocolate martini. The rich, creamy cocktail pairs perfectly with the dessert’s flavors, taking your indulgence up a notch!
These delightful accompaniments will elevate your Decadent Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding to new heights, making for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding Variations
Get ready to transform your decadent creation with these delightful twists that are sure to make your taste buds cheer!
- Milk & White Chocolate: Swap dark chocolate for milk or white chocolate for a creamier, sweeter treat that everyone will adore.
- Cinnamon Infusion: Sprinkle in some ground cinnamon or nutmeg to warm up the flavor and add a dash of spice! This aromatic addition creates a comforting aroma that will fill your kitchen.
- Nutty Crunch: Mix in toasted pecans or walnuts for an added crunch that beautifully contrasts the soft pudding. The combination of textures will keep every mouthful exciting!
- Fruit Burst: Toss in fresh raspberries, cherries, or even sliced bananas to introduce a fruity explosion that brightens your dessert. Each bite becomes a delightful surprise with pops of color and flavor.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute dairy products with alternatives like almond milk and coconut cream for a lighter, dairy-free version. This swap ensures that everyone can indulge in this rich treat!
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top before serving for an extra indulgence that elevates every bite. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an unforgettable dessert experience—as seen in our Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake!
- Chili Heat: For those who enjoy a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the custard mixture. This unexpected heat will surely ignite your taste buds, and for a full spicy experience, why not try it with our Corn Ribs Cheese?
- Cream Cheese Swirls: Instead of mixing it in, drop dollops of cream cheese on top before baking for beautiful, creamy swirls. This visual appeal feels decadent even before every bite!
With these creative variations, dive into the joy of experimenting while crafting your Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding masterpiece!
Expert Tips for Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding
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Soaking Time Matters: Allow the bread to soak in the custard for at least 30 minutes; ideally, refrigerate overnight for the best flavor and texture.
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Watch the Bake: Keep an eye on the oven! The pudding should be golden on top and slightly jiggly in the center when done. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture.
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Cool for Perfection: Be patient and let it cool for 15-20 minutes before serving; this waiting time enhances the gooey texture you desire in Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding.
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Quality Ingredients Count: Use high-quality dark chocolate (60-70% cocoa) and fresh cream cheese for the richest flavor; don’t skimp on these key ingredients!
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Explore Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding spices or nuts; introducing elements like cinnamon or toasted pecans can elevate your dessert to new heights!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Decadent Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding ahead of time is a game-changer for busy weeknights! You can soak the bread in the custard mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing all those rich flavors to meld beautifully. Simply cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate. For an even easier option, you can assemble the entire dish (including the cream cheese and chocolate) and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days before baking. Just ensure it’s tightly covered to maintain quality. When you’re ready to enjoy this indulgent dessert, pop it in the oven straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed, and treat your family to a warm, gooey delight!
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding
Fridge: Store leftover chocolate & cream cheese bread pudding in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or enjoy it cold for a tasty treat!
Freezer: For longer storage, slice the pudding and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To enjoy your pudding warm, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave in short intervals until heated through.
Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving chocolate & cream cheese bread pudding out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure quality and food safety.
Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right sweet bread for this recipe?
Choosing the right sweet bread is crucial for a fantastic Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding! I recommend using brioche or challah, as they have a rich texture that soaks up custard beautifully. If you can’t find them, feel free to substitute with day-old croissants or quality white sandwich bread, which will also work well while giving a unique twist to the pudding.
How should I store leftover bread pudding?
You can store any leftover Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Just cover it well to maintain its moisture and flavor! If you prefer it cold, enjoy it straight from the fridge. If you’d like to savor it warm, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave for a cozy treat.
Can I freeze the bread pudding? If so, how?
Absolutely! For longer storage, slice the bread pudding into portions, then wrap each piece tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. This way, you can freeze your delicious Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the slices overnight in the refrigerator before reheating them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
What should I do if my bread pudding is too dry?
If you find that your Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding is too dry, it might be due to overbaking or not allowing enough soaking time. For the next time, make sure you let the bread soak in the custard for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight. Keep an eye on it while baking; the center should jiggle slightly when done. If it seems dry after baking, serve it with a drizzle of cream or warm your favorite sauce on top to add a luscious touch!
Can this recipe be made dairy-free or suitable for dietary restrictions?
While the original recipe is not dairy-free, you can adapt it to fit dietary needs! Substitute whole milk and heavy cream with almond milk or coconut cream for a dairy-free option. For vegan cooking, replace the eggs with a mixture of flaxseed meal and water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water replaces 1 egg) while using a dairy-free cream cheese. This creates a delightful version of your Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding, allowing everyone to enjoy its rich goodness!
Indulge in Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with unsalted butter.
- Tear your sweet bread into 1-inch pieces and distribute them evenly in the greased baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the large eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and well-combined.
- Pour the creamy custard mixture over the torn bread pieces and gently press down to ensure the bread absorbs the mixture. Allow to soak for at least 30 minutes, preferably refrigerating overnight.
- Stir in the cubed cream cheese and dark chocolate chunks, folding gently to distribute throughout the mixture.
- Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chunks on top and bake for 45-55 minutes until golden brown and slightly jiggly in the center.
- Allow the pudding to cool for 15-20 minutes before serving.
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