If you crave a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, this Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding with Cream Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender cubes of rich brioche soaked in a luscious vanilla custard, baked until golden and bubbling with pockets of melted chocolate chips. Topped with a silky cream sauce that’s both sweet and comforting, every bite is pure magic. This recipe takes a humble pantry staple—day-old bread—and transforms it into a stunning, soul-satisfying treat that’s perfect for any occasion, guaranteed to become your new favorite indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential, each playing a special role in creating the perfect balance of creamy texture, sweet notes, and that irresistible golden crust. From the rich folds of buttery bread to the smooth custard and luscious cream sauce, every component contributes to this comforting dessert’s charm.
- 4 cups cubed bread (brioche or challah preferred): Rich, slightly sweet bread provides a tender, custardy base with a delicate crumb.
- 2 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and helps create a luscious custard soak.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Boosts richness both in the custard and the cream sauce.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the custard perfectly without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings a warm, fragrant depth that complements the chocolate beautifully.
- 3 large eggs: The binding agent that gives the pudding its silky texture and holds everything together while baking.
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melted pockets of chocolate add gooey, indulgent surprises throughout the pudding.
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar (for sauce): Sweetens the cream sauce just enough for a perfect drizzle.
- 1 tbsp butter: Adds a silky richness to the cream sauce, elevating its flavor and texture.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding with Cream Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Bread
Start by cubing your brioche or challah into bite-sized pieces; these breads are ideal because their natural sweetness and tender crumb soak up the custard beautifully without falling apart. Spread the cubes evenly in a lightly greased 8×8-inch baking dish to ensure every bite has a perfect balance of custard and bread.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Custard
In a large bowl, combine whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This custard base is what infuses the bread cubes with incredible flavor and that melt-in-your-mouth texture we all crave in bread pudding.
Step 3: Assemble the Pudding
Pour the custard over the prepared bread cubes, making sure to coat as evenly as possible so every cube soaks in that creamy goodness. Let it sit for 10 minutes; this resting time allows the bread to fully absorb the custard, ensuring each bite will be wonderfully rich. Then, sprinkle the chocolate chips on top so they can melt into delightful spots of sweetness as the pudding bakes.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C), and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the custard is set (no jiggling in the center) and the top has a gorgeous golden-brown crust. This caramelized surface adds a delightful texture contrast to the creamy inside.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Sauce
While the pudding bakes, make the rich cream sauce that makes this recipe unforgettable. In a small saucepan, gently heat heavy cream, sugar, and butter over medium heat, stirring frequently until the sugar dissolves and the sauce thickens slightly—about 5 minutes. Remove it from the heat and stir in vanilla extract for a fragrant, luxurious finish.
Step 6: Serve with Warm Cream Sauce
Once the bread pudding is out of the oven, drizzle the warm cream sauce generously over each serving. The combination of the soft, chocolate-studded pudding and the silky sauce creates a match made in dessert heaven.
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding with Cream Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your dessert experience, consider topping the pudding with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a handful of toasted nuts for some crunch. Fresh berries or a sprig of mint can add a pop of color and a hint of freshness that beautifully balances the sweet richness.
Side Dishes
This indulgent bread pudding pairs wonderfully with a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a cozy brunch twist, serve alongside fresh fruit salad or a light coffee or tea to cut through the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
You can make this recipe even more special by baking it in individual ramekins for personalized portions or using a cast-iron skillet for a rustic presentation. Serving it with the cream sauce in a small pitcher allows guests to drizzle as much or as little as they like, adding a fun interactive element.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding with Cream Sauce Recipe, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days, making it a perfect dessert to enjoy over a few days without missing any of the flavor or texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the bread pudding (without the cream sauce) for up to two months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, pop individual slices into the microwave for about 30 seconds or warm the entire dish in a 350°F oven until heated through. Reheat the cream sauce gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring often to maintain its silky consistency.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for this pudding?
Absolutely! While brioche or challah are preferred for their sweetness and texture, you can use challah, French bread, or even croissants. Just choose a bread that’s sturdy enough to hold the custard without turning mushy.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute whole milk and heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk and coconut cream, respectively. Keep in mind this will slightly change the flavor and texture but will still yield a delicious pudding.
Can I prepare the pudding the night before baking?
Definitely! After assembling, cover the dish and refrigerate overnight. This will actually allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Just bring it to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
What is the best way to melt the chocolate chips evenly?
Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the soaked bread cubes before baking, as directed. The heat of the oven will gently melt them throughout the pudding, creating melted pockets without burning or settling at the bottom.
How thick should the cream sauce be?
The cream sauce should be just thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable. This ensures it drizzles smoothly over the pudding without running off too quickly or becoming too cloying.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm slice of Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding with Cream Sauce Recipe fresh from the oven. It’s a dessert that wraps you in sweetness and nostalgia, simple yet utterly irresistible. Don’t hesitate to dive into this recipe and make it your own — it’s guaranteed to bring joy to any table and become a treasured favorite in your kitchen!
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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
This Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding with Cream Sauce is a comforting and decadent dessert featuring soft, custard-soaked bread cubes studded with semi-sweet chocolate chips and baked to golden perfection. Topped with a rich and creamy vanilla sauce, it’s a perfect warm treat for family gatherings or special occasions.
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 bread across the dish.
- Mix Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces get soaked. Let the bread absorb the custard for 10 minutes. Then sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the top.
- Bake Bread Pudding: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top turns a gorgeous golden brown color.
- Prepare Cream Sauce: While the pudding is baking, combine heavy cream, granulated sugar, and butter in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Serve: Once baked, allow the bread pudding to cool slightly, then drizzle the warm cream sauce generously over the top before serving.
Notes
- Use brioche or challah bread for the best texture and flavor.
- Letting the bread soak in custard ensures a moist and tender pudding.
- For a nuttier flavor, consider adding toasted pecans or walnuts.
- Chocolate chips can be substituted with white chocolate or raisins according to preference.
- The cream sauce can be prepared ahead and warmed before serving.
- Use fresh eggs and whole milk for the richest taste.
