Chocolate Bread Pudding The Best 9-Step Recipe Guide You’ll Ever Need

Name: Chocolate Bread Pudding
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups heavy cream; 1½ cups whole milk; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 6 oz dark chocolate (chopped or chips); 4 large eggs; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 2 tsp vanilla extract; ½ tsp cinnamon (optional); Pinch of salt; 6 cups day-old brioche or challah, cubed

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Chocolate Bread Pudding is the perfect blend of cozy nostalgia and rich indulgence. This heavenly dessert turns everyday bread into a decadent, chocolatey masterpiece—soft in the middle, crisp on top, and bursting with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re planning a holiday menu, weekend brunch, or simply craving a warm dessert, chocolate bread pudding delivers satisfaction every single time.

Chocolate Bread Pudding baked to perfection in rustic dish

Don’t miss our creamy and rich Chocolate Cheesecake for another indulgent dessert idea.

Table of Contents

What Is Chocolate Bread Pudding?

What Makes Chocolate Bread Pudding Different from Cake or Brownies?

Unlike brownies or cakes, chocolate bread pudding is made by soaking cubes of stale bread in a chocolate-infused custard. There’s no flour, no baking powder—just bread, eggs, cream, and chocolate baked to perfection. The result is a dessert with a creamy, pudding-like center and a lightly crisped top, giving it a rustic, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Where cakes are fluffy and structured, bread pudding is dense and comforting. It absorbs every bit of the rich custard, making each bite deeply flavorful and satisfying. It’s a dessert born from simplicity, but elevated by rich chocolate and clever technique.

Origin of Chocolate Bread Pudding: A Sweet Twist on Tradition

The roots of bread pudding go back to 11th-century Europe, where frugal cooks created it to avoid wasting old bread. Over time, it evolved into a beloved comfort dessert with many variations across cultures.

Chocolate bread pudding is a modern American spin on this traditional dish, swapping raisins and spices for melted chocolate or cocoa. It first gained popularity in Southern kitchens, where comfort food reigns supreme, and has now found its way into upscale menus and holiday tables everywhere.

It’s a classic made modern—and deliciously unforgettable.

Key Ingredients for the Best Chocolate Bread Pudding

Choosing the Right Bread: Brioche vs. Challah vs. French Bread

When making chocolate bread pudding, the type of bread you choose makes a huge difference in texture and flavor. The best options are rich, dense breads that can soak up the custard without falling apart.

Here’s a breakdown of your top contenders:

Bread Type	Texture	Best For
Brioche	Buttery, tender	Ultra-rich puddings
Challah	Slightly sweet, soft	Classic style with mild sweetness
French Bread	Firm crust, chewy	Holds up well in soaking and baking
Croissants (day-old)	Flaky, buttery	Elegant, dessert-like texture
Sourdough	Tangy, dense	Adds depth and contrast to sweetness

If you’re going for ultra-luxurious, brioche is your best bet. But if you’re using leftover bread, even a basic sandwich loaf can work—just toast it first to prevent sogginess.

Best Chocolate for Bread Pudding: Dark, Semi-Sweet, or Chips?

The heart of any chocolate bread pudding recipe lies in—surprise—the chocolate. But not all chocolates are created equal.

Here’s how to choose what works best for your dessert:

Dark Chocolate (60%-70%): Gives a rich, intense flavor and balances the sweetness of the custard.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Easy to fold in for melty pockets of chocolate without overpowering.
Cocoa Powder (Unsweetened): Excellent for flavoring the custard base.
Milk Chocolate: Sweeter and creamier, great for kids or lighter desserts.
Chocolate Chunks: Offer gooey texture in the middle with bite-sized richness.

For the ultimate chocolate bread pudding, a combo of cocoa powder and chopped dark chocolate gives a deep, complex flavor. Sprinkle some chips on top before baking for that signature gooey topping.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Chocolate Raspberry Cake that blends fruit and chocolate effortlessly.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Classic Chocolate Bread Pudding

Pouring chocolate custard into bread pudding

Preparing the Custard Base with Rich Chocolate Flavor

To make the most decadent chocolate bread pudding, you’ll need to start with a silky custard base. This is where the flavor magic happens. The custard seeps into every cube of bread, giving it that signature soft, pudding-like texture.

Here’s how to build your custard:

Ingredients for Custard:

2 cups heavy cream
1½ cups whole milk
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
6 oz dark chocolate (chopped or chips)
4 large eggs
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
Pinch of salt

Steps:

In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together cream, milk, and cocoa powder until smooth and heated through—be careful not to let it boil.
Stir in chopped dark chocolate and continue stirring until fully melted and smooth.
In a large bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, vanilla, and salt until combined.
Gradually pour the warm chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, whisking continuously to temper the eggs.

You now have a rich chocolate custard, ready to pour over your cubed bread.

Bread Prep Tip: Toast your bread cubes in the oven at 325°F for 10 minutes before soaking. This prevents sogginess and helps the bread hold its shape.

Check out this easy and fluffy Chocolate Whipped Cream to top your bread pudding perfectly after baking.

Baking Process: Temperature, Timing & Texture Tips

Once your bread is soaked and custard is prepped, it’s time to bake. Getting the bake just right is what makes or breaks a great chocolate bread pudding.

Assembly Instructions:

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Add toasted bread cubes and pour the custard evenly over the top.
Gently press down so the bread is fully submerged.
Let it sit for 30 minutes at room temp to fully absorb.

Baking:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place dish on the middle rack and bake for 45–55 minutes.
The pudding should puff slightly and feel set in the center but not dry.
A knife inserted into the center should come out slightly moist, but not with liquid.

Want to elevate your dessert table? Looking for inspiration? Try our Death by Chocolate Cake for a bold, gooey treat.

Creative Variations You Must Try

Chocolate Bread Pudding baked to perfection

White Chocolate Bread Pudding with Raspberry Swirls

Want to switch things up from the usual dark chocolate? For a twist, try white chocolate bread pudding with swirls of raspberry jam or fresh berries. It’s rich, fruity, and surprisingly balanced—not overly sweet, just indulgent enough.

How to make it:

Replace dark chocolate with 8 oz of chopped white chocolate in the custard for a creamy, sweeter variation.
Add ½ cup of raspberry preserves or lightly mashed fresh raspberries.
Drop spoonfuls of jam over the custard-soaked bread before baking.
Gently swirl with a knife to create a marbled effect.

The blend of sweet creaminess and tart berries is not only visually stunning but also incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect for brunches, bridal showers, or Valentine’s Day.

Learn more about crafting a silky White Chocolate Mousse for elegant dessert pairings.

Mocha, Nutella & Peanut Butter Chocolate Bread Pudding

Chocolate plays well with lots of other flavors—and if you’re feeling adventurous, these three combinations are next-level good:

1. Mocha Chocolate Bread Pudding

Stir in 1 tablespoon of instant espresso powder into the warm custard for an added depth of flavor.
Top with a drizzle of mocha glaze (powdered sugar + brewed coffee).

2. Nutella Swirl Bread Pudding

Drop dollops of Nutella between the layers of bread before baking.
The hazelnut and chocolate combo makes it extra gooey and flavorful.

3. Chocolate Peanut Butter Bread Pudding

Whisk ½ cup of creamy peanut butter into the custard with chocolate.
Add chopped peanuts or peanut butter chips on top for texture.

These versions are great for birthdays, kids’ parties, or whenever you want to jazz up the standard recipe.

Don’t miss our authentic Chocolate Brigadeiro Recipe – another rich, chocolatey treat you’ll love after this one.

Expert Tips to Avoid Common Mistakes

Why Is My Bread Pudding Soggy? Fixing Texture Issues

A soggy chocolate bread pudding is a common frustration—but it’s usually easy to fix once you know the cause.

Here’s why yours might be too wet (and how to solve it):

Problem	Solution
Bread not stale or dry enough	Use day-old or oven-toasted bread cubes
Too much custard vs. bread ratio	Follow accurate measurements and don’t overdo the liquid
Didn’t rest before baking	Let soak for 30 minutes to fully absorb
Underbaked center	Bake until center is set and edges are puffed

If you’re unsure about consistency, the custard should be absorbed but not sloshing. Press a spoon into the center—if it springs back slowly and isn’t jiggly, it’s ready to bake.

How to Know When Bread Pudding Is Done Perfectly

Knowing when chocolate bread pudding is done can be tricky, especially if it looks firm on top but is still liquid inside. Here’s how to test it the right way:

Bake Time: 45 to 55 minutes at 350°F.
Center Test: Insert a butter knife in the center—it should come out slightly damp, not covered in raw custard.
Visual Clue: The pudding should rise slightly, especially at the edges, and the top will look crispy or crackly.
Touch Test: Gently press the center. If it feels firm but springy, it’s done.

Pro tip: If the top is browning too quickly, loosely cover with foil for the final 10–15 minutes of baking.

Looking for more chocolate dessert ideas? Discover great ideas like our Chocolate Raspberry Cake that mixes sweetness with a fruity edge.

Best Toppings and Sauces for Chocolate Bread Pudding

Vanilla Bean Sauce, Bourbon Glaze & Whipped Cream Options

A rich, warm chocolate bread pudding is already a showstopper—but when you drizzle on a silky sauce or add a fluffy topping? Game over.

Here are three irresistible options that take your pudding to the next level:

1. Vanilla Bean Custard Sauce
A classic choice that adds creaminess and contrast to deep chocolate.

How to make it:

1 cup heavy cream
1 egg yolk
¼ cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla bean paste

Simmer cream and sugar, whisk in yolk, cook until thickened—don’t boil. Drizzle generously over warm pudding.

2. Bourbon Glaze
Perfect for adults who like a little edge to their dessert.

Quick recipe:

½ cup powdered sugar
1 tbsp melted butter
1 tbsp bourbon
1 tbsp milk

Mix until smooth and pour over cooled pudding for a boozy, caramel-like kick.

3. Flavored Whipped Cream
Top with espresso whipped cream, orange zest cream, or go simple with classic vanilla.

Want more ideas? Don’t miss our Death by Chocolate Cake to pair with your favorite whipped toppings.

Easy Chocolate Ganache and Ice Cream Pairings

Want to double up on chocolate? Ganache is the way to go.

Simple Ganache Recipe:

1 cup heavy cream
8 oz dark chocolate, chopped

Heat cream until steaming, pour over chocolate, wait 1 minute, stir until smooth. Pour over bread pudding while still warm for a luscious finish.

Best Ice Cream Pairings:

Ice Cream Flavor	Why It Works
Vanilla Bean	Cuts through chocolate richness
Salted Caramel	Adds sweetness and contrast
Coffee or Mocha	Enhances deep cocoa flavors
Raspberry Sorbet	Light, fruity complement
Chocolate Fudge Brownie	For the ultimate chocolate overload

Check out this easy and fluffy Chocolate Whipped Cream that makes a perfect topping on warm bread pudding too.

How to Store and Reheat Chocolate Bread Pudding

Fridge vs. Freezer: How Long It Stays Good

Chocolate bread pudding isn’t just delicious fresh out of the oven—it stores beautifully too. If you make a big batch or want to prepare it ahead of time, knowing how to store it properly is key to maintaining its texture and flavor.

Here’s a quick guide:

Storage Method	How to Store	Shelf Life
Refrigerator	Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap	3–5 days
Freezer	Wrap tightly in foil, then in freezer bag	Up to 2 months

Tips:

Let the pudding cool completely before refrigerating or freezing.
For individual servings, portion out into airtight containers before storing.
Avoid storing with toppings like whipped cream or sauce—add those fresh when serving.

To prevent freezer burn, double-wrap the dish and label it with the date.

Reheating Without Drying It Out

The key to reheating chocolate bread pudding is preserving its original soft, moist texture. Here’s how to do it the right way:

In the Oven (Best Method):

Preheat to 325°F (163°C)
Cover the dish with foil to trap moisture
Bake for 15–20 minutes or until heated through

In the Microwave (Faster Option):

Place one portion on a microwave-safe plate
Cover with a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out
Heat for 30–45 seconds on medium power

Avoid high heat—it can turn the custard rubbery and dry out the edges.

Need more dessert storage ideas? Don’t miss our creamy and chill-friendly White Chocolate Mousse recipe that keeps well in the fridge, too.

Serving Ideas for Every Occasion

Chocolate Bread Pudding for Brunch, Holidays, and Parties

Chocolate bread pudding isn’t just a dessert—it’s a showstopper centerpiece that fits into any setting, from relaxed brunches to festive holidays.

Here’s how to serve it up based on the event:

1. Weekend Brunch

Slice while warm and garnish with a dollop of vanilla bean whipped cream.
Serve alongside fresh fruit or a mimosa.
Offer maple syrup or a caramel drizzle on the side.

2. Holiday Dinners (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter)

Bake it in a festive dish and finish with a light dusting of powdered sugar.
Top with a scoop of salted caramel ice cream for an added touch of richness.
Pair with a bold cup of coffee or a glass of spiced wine for a perfect complemen.

3. Potlucks or Gatherings

Bake in a disposable foil tray for easy transport.
Serve extra toppings, like ganache or bourbon sauce, in small containers on the side.
Offer it warm or at room temp—it holds up great.

4. Date Nights

Serve warm with a split vanilla bean and a generous drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Add fresh raspberries or strawberries for a romantic touch.
Pair with a glass of red wine or espresso.

Hosting soon? Discover great ideas like our Chocolate Raspberry Cake for an equally rich and crowd-pleasing dessert option.

Mini Bread Pudding Cups for Easy Entertaining

For a more elegant or portion-controlled option, mini chocolate bread pudding cups are a fantastic choice.

How to make them:

Use a muffin tin or small ramekins.
Divide soaked bread evenly into each cup.
Bake for 20–25 minutes at 350°F.
Top each with a swirl of whipped cream or a ganache drizzle.

These are perfect for:

Dessert buffets
Brunch bars
Kids’ parties
Gifting in decorative jars

They’re easy to serve, no slicing required, and still pack all the flavor of a traditional pan of bread pudding.

Nutrition, Substitutions & Dietary Tips

Healthier Swaps: Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free & Sugar-Free Options

You don’t have to skip chocolate bread pudding just because you follow a special diet. With a few smart swaps, you can enjoy this classic dessert while staying within your dietary goals.

Here’s how to customize it:

Diet Type	What to Swap	Why It Works
Dairy-Free	Use almond, oat, or coconut milk instead of cream	Keeps it creamy without the dairy
	Replace butter with plant-based margarine	Still rich and satisfying
Gluten-Free	Use GF brioche, GF sandwich bread, or cornbread	Absorbs custard similarly
	Ensure chocolate and other ingredients are certified gluten-free	Avoids hidden gluten
Sugar-Free/Keto	Use monk fruit or erythritol instead of sugar	Reduces carb and sugar count
	Choose keto-friendly chocolate	Keeps it low-carb and indulgent

Bonus tip: Use unsweetened almond milk and dark chocolate with 85% cocoa to cut back on sugar without losing flavor.

Egg-Free Option: Replace each egg with ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water). You’ll get a softer texture, but it still holds together.

Need a guilt-free chocolate hit? Learn more about our Chocolate Brigadeiro Recipe which can be adapted for clean eating, too.

Portion Control and Nutritional Breakdown

Here’s a basic nutritional snapshot of a standard serving of classic chocolate bread pudding (without toppings):

Nutrient	Amount (per serving)
Calories	~320–380
Total Fat	~18g
Saturated Fat	~10g
Sugar	~25g
Protein	~6–8g
Carbohydrates	~35–40g

Keep in mind that toppings like ice cream or ganache can easily double the calorie count, so serve accordingly.

Pro tip: Bake in ramekins or muffin tins to naturally portion out your servings and avoid overindulging.

FAQs

How can you tell when bread pudding is done?

To know when your chocolate bread pudding is done, gently insert a knife or toothpick into the center. It should come out slightly moist but not covered in raw custard. The top will be puffed and lightly browned, and the edges will start pulling away from the sides of the dish. If the center still jiggles like liquid, give it 5–10 more minutes.

How long does bread pudding stay good?

Chocolate bread pudding will last for 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator, tightly covered with plastic wrap or foil. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 2 months in an airtight container. Just make sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating or freezing.
For best results when serving leftovers, reheat it in the oven at 325°F with foil to maintain moisture.

How do you know when your pudding is done?

It’s all about texture and color. When baked properly, your pudding will look slightly puffed, the top will be crisp and golden, and the center will be firm but soft—not runny. You should also see a bit of caramelized edges where the custard meets the pan. If it still jiggles in the middle, bake it a little longer.
Use a knife test or the press test to be sure: firm but bouncy is what you’re aiming for.

Conclusion

There’s no denying that chocolate bread pudding is a classic comfort dessert that never goes out of style. Whether you prefer it loaded with dark chocolate chunks, topped with bourbon sauce, or baked into mini cups for easy entertaining, this dessert always delivers warmth, richness, and crowd-pleasing flavor.

From mastering the custard base to exploring creative flavor twists and learning how to store leftovers like a pro, you now have everything you need to create this indulgent dish confidently. With just a few ingredients and a bit of love, you can turn stale bread into something truly unforgettable.

Don’t miss our authentic Chocolate Brigadeiro Recipe for another rich, chocolatey treat perfect after bread pudding.

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Chocolate Bread Pudding – The Ultimate Comfort Dessert You’ll Love

What Is Chocolate Bread Pudding?

What Makes Chocolate Bread Pudding Different from Cake or Brownies?