Decadent Chocolate Cream Cheese Bread Pudding Recipe
A rich and decadent Chocolate Cream Cheese Bread Pudding combining creamy layers of smooth cream cheese and chocolate chips within soft bread, baked to a custardy perfection. This dessert is perfect for chocolate lovers looking for an indulgent yet comforting treat.
- Author: Nora
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Bread Pudding Base
- 6 cups cubed day-old bread (such as French or brioche)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Custard Mixture
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Prepare the Bread and Cream Cheese Layers: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish. In the dish, layer cubed bread evenly. Distribute softened cream cheese cubes and sprinkle chocolate chips over the bread for an even mixture of flavors in every bite.
- Make the Egg Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine and Bake: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered bread, cream cheese, and chocolate chips. Press down gently to help bread absorb the custard. Allow to sit for 10 minutes to soak fully. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the bread pudding to cool slightly before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, with optional toppings such as whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Notes
- Using day-old bread helps the pudding absorb the custard without becoming overly soggy.
- For a richer flavor, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream.
- Feel free to add nuts like chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture.
- This bread pudding can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated before baking; just increase baking time by a few minutes if baking chilled.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free bread.
Keywords: chocolate bread pudding, cream cheese dessert, baked bread pudding, chocolate chips dessert, custard bread pudding