Often made with stale bread, bread pudding is a classic dessert that's stood the test of time. It originated in England in the 11th century when cooks soaked leftover bread with a spiced syrup to make the most of available ingredients. Originally known as "poor man's pudding," it's since evolved into a more decadent treat, typically made with a custardy mix of eggs, milk, cream, sugar, butter, and enriched bread for a rich and flavorful result. This chocolate bread pudding casserole takes this indulgent dish to the next level. The chocolate-studded casserole is served with a chocolate ganache for an over-the-top dessert or brunch offering.
Our Tips for the Best Chocolate Bread Pudding Casserole
Bread pudding is quick, easy, and incredibly indulgent. When making this chocolate bread pudding casserole, keep these tips in mind for the most delicious result:
- Butter generously: Butter adds a layer of richness and flavor to the casserole that takes it to the next level.
- Be patient: Give the casserole 30 minutes of soaking time in the refrigerator, as directed, to make sure the bread soaks up every bit of the custardy base.
- Good quality chocolate: Use a good quality chocolate (chopped bars are preferred over chips), for the best texture and flavor.
- Water bath: While it may be an extra step, cooking the casserole in a water bath helps provide a gentle environment to create the most custardy texture.
- Serve warm: Bread pudding can become rubbery or soggy as it cools. Serve warm, fresh from the oven (after a short rest time) for the best texture.
Ingredients
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5 large eggs
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2 cups whipping cream
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1 cup granulated sugar
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½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
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¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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8 ( 1-inch slices) firm white bread (about 10 ounces) (crusts left on)
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¾ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
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4 ounces semisweet and/or milk chocolate, chopped (1 cup)
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Ganache
Directions
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Assemble the Pudding
Butter a 2-quart rectangular baking dish; set aside. In a large bowl whisk together the eggs, cream, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. Generously spread one side of each slice of bread with the 3/4 cup butter. Cut the slices in half diagonally and arrange the bread in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, overlapping the slices. Sprinkle the chocolate over the bread, tucking some between the bread slices. Pour the custard over the bread; cover with foil and let it soak in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
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Bake and Serve
Preheat oven to 375°F. Place the baking dish in a large roasting pan. Add enough hot water to come halfway up the sides of the dish. Bake for 45 minutes or until the pudding is set and the top is golden (there will be a layer of melted butter over the pudding). Carefully remove the baking dish from the water bath and let cool slightly on a wire rack (the butter will soak back into the bread as it cools). Serve pudding warm with ganache spooned over the top.
How to Make Chocolate Ganache: In a medium saucepan, bring 1 cup whipping cream just to boiling over medium heat. Remove from heat. Add 12 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped (do not stir). Let stand 5 minutes. Stir until smooth. Cool for 15 minutes.
How To Store Chocolate Bread Pudding Casserole
Wrap and refrigerate leftover bread pudding for up to three days, or freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, and reheat, covered, in a preheated 350°F oven, toaster oven, or microwave until hot throughout before serving.
To prepare it in advance, assemble as directed, wrap, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh before serving. You can also prepare the ganache up to four days ahead. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate, then microwave until warmed before using.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| 786 | Calories |
| 61g | Fat |
| 61g | Carbs |
| 8g | Protein |
| Nutrition Facts | |
|---|---|
| Servings Per Recipe 12 | |
| Calories 786 | |
| % Daily Value * | |
| Total Fat 61g | 78% |
| Saturated Fat 37g | 185% |
| Cholesterol 238mg | 79% |
| Sodium 249mg | 11% |
| Total Carbohydrate 61g | 22% |
| Total Sugars 47g | |
| Protein 8g | 16% |
*The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a food serving contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.