If you’re craving something that feels like a warm hug from your oven, you absolutely have to try this Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding with Cream Sauce Recipe. It’s a luscious, comforting dessert that effortlessly combines the rich, custardy texture of bread pudding with the sweet, melty goodness of chocolate chips, all elevated by a smooth, decadent cream sauce. This recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a show-stopping treat that’s perfect whether it’s a cozy weeknight dessert or a special occasion finale. Trust me, once you dive into this, there’s no turning back — it’s that good!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding with Cream Sauce Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to create layers of flavor and texture that work harmoniously together. From fluffy bread cubes soaking in rich custard to the luscious cream sauce that ties everything together, every component is essential for whipping up this classic dessert.
- 4 cups cubed bread (brioche or challah preferred): These breads bring a tender crumb and subtle sweetness, perfect for soaking up the custard.
- 2 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and moisture to the custard base, making it silky smooth.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Boosts richness, ensuring a decadent mouthfeel.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the custard just right without overpowering.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses the dish with a comforting and aromatic flavor.
- 3 large eggs: The binding agent that helps the pudding set perfectly.
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melts slightly in the oven, providing little bursts of chocolate joy.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (for sauce): Creates a luxuriously creamy sauce to drizzle on top.
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar (for sauce): Sweetens the cream sauce harmoniously.
- 1 tbsp butter: Adds depth and a velvety finish to the cream sauce.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for sauce): Enhances the cream sauce with warm, sweet notes.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding with Cream Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Start by cubing your bread into roughly one-inch pieces. I recommend using brioche or challah because their tender crumb absorbs the custard beautifully without becoming mushy. Spread these cubes evenly in a greased 8×8-inch baking dish to ensure every bite is soaked perfectly later.
Step 2: Make the Custard Mix
In a large bowl, whisk together the whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs until the mixture is velvety smooth and uniformly combined. This custard is the heartbeat of your bread pudding, and getting it well mixed means every forkful will be rich and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Pudding
Pour your freshly made custard evenly over the bread cubes, making sure each piece gets a good soak. Letting it sit for about 10 minutes helps the bread absorb all that custardy goodness. When ready, sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips across the top, so as it bakes, those little pockets of chocolate melt into a delightful surprise.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the pudding for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the custard has set firmly and the top boasts a gorgeous golden brown crust. The aroma filling your kitchen will already have you eager for the next step — the cream sauce!
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Sauce
While the pudding bakes, warm the heavy cream, sugar, and butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and the sauce thickens slightly, around 5 minutes. Once removed from heat, stir in the vanilla extract to add an aromatic sweetness that perfectly complements the bread pudding.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Drizzle the warm cream sauce generously over each serving of bread pudding. This final touch not only adds moisture but also wraps the dessert in an irresistibly creamy finish. Now it’s time to dig in and savor every luscious bite of your Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding with Cream Sauce Recipe.
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding with Cream Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation and texture, consider topping your bread pudding with a dusting of powdered sugar or a handful of fresh berries. A sprig of mint adds a fantastic pop of color and freshness that balances the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
While this dish is a dessert in itself, serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream makes for a truly indulgent experience. For those wanting a lighter contrast, fresh fruit or a crisp salad can nicely balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the bread pudding in individual ramekins topped with the cream sauce and a drizzle of chocolate syrup for that extra wow factor. You could even turn leftovers into parfaits layered with fresh fruit and yogurt for a delightful breakfast twist on the Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding with Cream Sauce Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool any leftover bread pudding to room temperature, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing
This pudding freezes beautifully! Wrap individual portions tightly in foil or place them in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To enjoy your leftovers, warm them in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in 30-second bursts, being careful not to overcook. Don’t forget to reheat your cream sauce separately and drizzle it over the pudding just before serving!
FAQs
Can I use stale bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! In fact, slightly stale bread works best because it soaks up the custard without turning to mush. Just make sure it’s not moldy or overly dried out.
What kind of chocolate chips are best?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips are ideal, as they provide the perfect balance of sweetness and flavor that complements the rich custard. However, feel free to experiment with dark or milk chocolate chips based on your taste preference.
Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the pudding the night before, cover it, and keep it refrigerated. When ready, bake it fresh for the best texture and flavor.
Is there a dairy-free version?
To make this dairy-free, swap the milk and cream for coconut milk or any non-dairy cream alternative, and use a plant-based butter substitute for the sauce. The flavor will be different but still delicious!
How do I get the custard to set perfectly?
Using fresh eggs and maintaining the right baking temperature (350°F) help the custard to set without curdling. Baking long enough until it’s just set and golden on top guarantees a creamy yet firm texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the way the Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding with Cream Sauce Recipe brings together nostalgic flavors in such a comforting and luxurious way. It’s a dessert that feels like a celebration of simple ingredients done right. Whether for family dinners or cozy evenings, this recipe will quickly become a beloved classic you’ll want to make again and again. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to some homemade magic!
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Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding with Cream Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A decadent Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding made with buttery brioche or challah bread, soaked in a rich vanilla custard, baked to golden perfection, and served warm with a luscious homemade cream sauce.
Ingredients
Bread Pudding
- 4 cups cubed bread (brioche or challah preferred)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Cream Sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish and evenly spread the cubed brioche or challah bread inside.
- Mix Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs until smooth and fully combined to create the custard base.
- Assemble: Pour the custard evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring that all pieces soak thoroughly. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to absorb. Then sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the custard has set and the top is beautifully golden brown.
- Prepare Cream Sauce: While the pudding bakes, combine heavy cream, granulated sugar, and butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Serve: Once baked, drizzle the warm cream sauce over the bread pudding before serving for an extra layer of rich flavor.
Notes
- Using brioche or challah bread enhances the richness and texture of the pudding.
- Allowing the bread cubes to soak in the custard ensures a moist and creamy texture.
- The cream sauce can be made ahead and gently reheated before serving.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the bread with a gluten-free option.
- Serve warm for best taste and texture.
