Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding

There's something incredibly special about the smell of Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding wafting through the house, and it takes me right back to my grandma's kitchen. Every holiday season, she would whip up this decadent dessert, and I'd sneak little bites of the rich, chocolatey goodness while it was still warm. Those moments of indulgence, laughter, and the joy of family gathering around the table are etched in my heart, and I want to share that warmth with you.

This recipe is perfect for chilly evenings when you want a cozy dessert that feels like a hug from the inside. Whether it’s a family gathering or just a quiet night in, Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding is an irresistible treat that brings everyone together. It’s rich, creamy, and utterly delicious—just like the memories it holds.

Why You’ll Love "Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding"

• This dessert is a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.
• It requires minimal ingredients, many of which you might already have on hand.
• Prep time is quick—only about 20 minutes—so you can spend more time enjoying with family.
• Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding is wonderfully versatile; it can be served warm or at room temperature.
• Leftovers (if there are any!) keep well in the fridge and can be reheated easily.
• It’s a delightful way to use up stale bread, minimizing waste while treating yourself to something delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Sweet Bread: 1 loaf (about 1 pound), torn into 1-inch pieces. I love using brioche or challah for their sweetness and texture.
• Large Eggs: 4. Make sure they're fresh for the best flavor and texture.
• Whole Milk: 2 cups. This adds creaminess, but feel free to substitute with any non-dairy milk if needed.
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup. This is key for a rich custard, but you can use a lighter cream if you prefer.
• Granulated Sugar: ½ cup. Adjust to your taste if you like it sweeter or less sweet.
• Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons. Always go for pure vanilla extract if you can; it makes a big difference!
• Salt: ¼ teaspoon. Just a pinch to enhance all the flavors.
• Cream Cheese: 8 ounces, chilled and cut into ½-inch cubes. I like to use full-fat cream cheese for creaminess, but reduced-fat works too.
• Dark Chocolate Chunks or Chips: 1 ½ cups, divided. I recommend semi-sweet or dark chocolate for a rich flavor.
• Unsalted Butter: for greasing the baking dish. You want it nice and slippery so the pudding doesn’t stick!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it's all warmed up and ready for your delicious pudding!

Grease the Baking Dish

1. Take a baking dish (I usually use a 9x13 inch one) and coat it generously with unsalted butter. Make sure to cover all sides to prevent any sticking later on!

Prepare the Custard Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the large eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until it’s smooth and creamy—this is where the magic begins!

Combine Bread and Custard

1. Add the torn sweet bread to your custard mixture. Gently stir to make sure every piece of bread gets coated in that luscious liquid. Don’t worry if it looks a bit runny; that’s normal!

Add Cream Cheese and Chocolate

1. Now it’s time to fold in those delightful cream cheese cubes along with 1 cup of dark chocolate chunks. Be gentle here; we want the cream cheese to stay in nice little pockets of deliciousness!

Pour into Baking Dish

1. Carefully pour the entire mixture into your greased baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly if needed. It should look so good already, you might want to sneak a taste!

Top with Remaining Chocolate

1. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of dark chocolate on top. This will melt beautifully and create a rich, gooey topping that you’ll absolutely love!

Bake

1. Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the custard is set and the top is golden brown. The aroma will be heavenly!

Cool Before Serving

1. Once baked, take it out and let it cool slightly before serving. This will help it set a little more, and trust me, you want to enjoy it warm!

Variations

• For a fruity twist, add fresh berries or sliced bananas to the mixture.
• Try using cinnamon raisin bread for an extra flavor kick!
• For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with additional milk.
• Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free bread.
• Use almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free adaptation.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Serve your Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding warm, or let it come to room temperature for a more relaxed vibe. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, adding that extra touch of indulgence!

Storage

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop individual servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Helpful Notes

• Feel free to swap the granulated sugar for brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
• If you're avoiding dairy, use vegan cream cheese and coconut milk.
• For a nutty flavor, consider adding chopped nuts to the mixture.
• Leftover bread pudding can be served with a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for an extra treat.
• Adjust the sweetness based on your preference; taste the custard before adding the bread!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding?

Yes, you can freeze Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding! Once it’s completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.

How can I substitute the cream cheese?

If you need to substitute the cream cheese, you can use mascarpone cheese for a similar texture and flavor. For a dairy-free option, try using vegan cream cheese made from cashews or tofu, which can work well in this recipe.

What types of bread work best?

The best breads for this recipe are sweet breads like brioche or challah due to their rich flavor and soft texture. However, you can also use other types of bread like French bread or even bagels, just be sure they’re a bit stale for the best results!

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk or coconut milk. Use vegan cream cheese to replace the regular cream cheese, and you’ll have a delicious dairy-free bread pudding.

How long does it take to bake?

Baking time for Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding is about 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the custard is set and the top is golden brown. Keep an eye on it towards the end to ensure it doesn't overbake!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re feeling inspired to dive into making this delightful Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding! It’s a dessert that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a cozy night at home, this recipe is sure to create sweet memories around the table. Remember, cooking is all about enjoying the process and bringing joy to those you love. So, roll up your sleeves, get a little messy, and make this delicious treat. You won’t regret it, and neither will your taste buds!

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