If you’re looking for a heartwarming dessert that’s both totally nostalgic and undeniably indulgent, you’ve just stumbled onto the secret to pure bliss: Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding with Cream Sauce. Imagine golden cubes of custard-soaked bread nestled with melty chocolate chips, all baked to perfection and finished with a velvety, sweet cream sauce. Whether you’re serving it at a cozy family supper or a celebratory dinner, this recipe brings comfort and luxury together in the most delightful way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It doesn’t take anything fancy to create this irresistible classic; the magic comes from everyday ingredients working together to produce warm, rich flavors and dreamy textures. Each item here is essential—contributing everything from the pillowy custard to the gleaming drizzle that finishes the dish.
- Day-old bread (6 cups, cubed, such as brioche or French bread): The foundation of your pudding, absorbing the custard for unbeatable softness and structure.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1/2 cup): Scatter in moments of gooey chocolate richness in every mouthful.
- Large eggs (4): Essential for setting the custard and giving the pudding its creamy, luscious texture.
- Whole milk (2 cups): Provides moisture and helps create that dreamy custard interior.
- Heavy cream (1 cup for pudding, 1/2 cup for sauce): Adds luxurious richness and makes the sauce extra silky.
- Granulated sugar (3/4 cup for pudding, 1/4 cup for sauce): Sweetens the custard and the sauce just right without overpowering the chocolate.
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup): Brings warm, caramel-like depth to the custard.
- Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon for pudding, 1 teaspoon for sauce): Infuses both components with comforting, fragrant flavor.
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle, aromatic spice that balances the richness of the dish.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Just a pinch to highlight all the other flavors and keep the sweetness in check.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons for sauce): Melts into the cream sauce, lending glossiness and a touch of extra decadence.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding with Cream Sauce
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish, lightly grease it with a little butter or nonstick spray, and set it aside. Getting the dish ready first makes everything go seamlessly when you start assembling.
Step 2: Layer the Bread and Chocolate Chips
Tumble your bread cubes into the prepared pan, making sure they’re spread out evenly. Next, sprinkle those semi-sweet chocolate chips over the top, nestling some between the bread so every piece gets a chocolate surprise.
Step 3: Whisk the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Aim for a smooth mixture—this luscious custard is the heart of the Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding with Cream Sauce dream.
Step 4: Soak the Bread
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and chocolate chips, making sure all the cubes get a good soak. Gently press the bread down with a spatula or the back of a spoon so everything starts absorbing. Let the whole thing sit for 10 to 15 minutes to guarantee that creamy, tender texture.
Step 5: Bake the Bread Pudding
Slide the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’re looking for a golden top and a center that’s just set. The heavenly smells will tell you it’s nearly there—a gentle wobble in the middle means it’s perfectly custardy.
Step 6: Make the Cream Sauce
While the pudding bakes, pop the heavy cream, granulated sugar, and butter into a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is hot (but not boiling). Take the pan off the heat and stir in the vanilla. The sauce should pour smoothly and coat the spoon—a final luxe touch for your Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding with Cream Sauce.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Spoon out the warm bread pudding and drizzle each portion generously with cream sauce. Dive right in or add a flourish with your favorite toppings—either way, delight is guaranteed!
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding with Cream Sauce
Garnishes
Dress up your plate by dusting the pudding with a shower of powdered sugar, tossing on a handful of toasted nuts, or crowning each serving with fresh berries. A sprig of mint or a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes the presentation (and flavor) to extra-special heights.
Side Dishes
Pairing this dessert with a light, fresh side is a lovely touch—think simple macerated strawberries, a crisp fruit salad, or even a palate-cleansing scoop of lemon sorbet. A small espresso or cup of strong coffee balances the sweetness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, try baking the pudding in individual ramekins to create personal desserts, each bathed in its own pool of cream sauce. Or, for a rustic look, serve straight from the baking dish at the table, letting everyone dig in family-style. If you want a playful vibe, consider layering in extra chocolate chips or dried fruit right before baking for a unique twist on the classic Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding with Cream Sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding with Cream Sauce can be covered and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature first, and keep the cream sauce in a separate container for the best texture when reheating.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze bread pudding! Wrap squares individually or freeze the whole dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to two months. For best results, freeze the cream sauce separately in a small airtight container.
Reheating
To enjoy leftovers, simply reheat portions of Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding with Cream Sauce in the microwave (just until warm) or cover with foil and heat in a 325°F (165°C) oven until heated through. Warm the sauce gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, then pour it over the pudding just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Dessert
Definitely! While brioche and French bread create an especially tender, custardy texture, you can use any good-quality, sturdy bread you have on hand—even challah or a hearty white loaf will work beautifully.
What’s the best way to know when the bread pudding is done baking?
The pudding should be set in the center with a gentle wobble, and the top should turn golden brown. If you insert a knife into the middle and it comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are okay), it’s ready to come out of the oven.
Can I add other flavors or mix-ins?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts, dried fruit, white chocolate chips, or even a handful of berries can be mixed in for a personal twist on your Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding with Cream Sauce. Adjust seasoning or mix-in amounts to taste.
Is it okay to make the pudding ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the bread pudding a few hours in advance and keep it in the fridge before baking. When ready to serve, bake as directed and prepare the cream sauce while it bakes, so everything is warm and inviting.
How do I make the cream sauce thicker or thinner?
If you want a thicker sauce, simmer it gently for an extra minute or two. For a thinner drizzle, add a splash more cream or milk until it reaches your desired consistency—easy tweaks make it perfect for your taste.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about a dessert that’s as comforting and rich as Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding with Cream Sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser every time, and once you taste that first chocolate-filled, custardy bite with the sweet cream poured over, you’ll want to make it again and again. Don’t wait for a special occasion—treat yourself and your loved ones to this classic, soul-satisfying treat!
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Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding with Cream Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of this Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding with a luscious Cream Sauce. This classic dessert is a perfect blend of soft bread soaked in a sweet custard, studded with chocolate chips, and served with a decadent cream sauce.
Ingredients
Bread Pudding:
- 6 cups day-old bread (cubed, such as brioche or French bread)
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Cream Sauce:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the bread: Place cubed bread in the dish, sprinkle with chocolate chips.
- Make custard: Whisk eggs, milk, cream, sugars, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Pour over bread.
- Bake: Bake for 45–50 minutes until golden and set.
- Prepare cream sauce: Heat cream, sugar, butter in a saucepan. Stir in vanilla.
- Serve: Drizzle warm bread pudding with cream sauce.
Notes
- Best served warm.
- Add nuts or swap chocolate for white chocolate or dried fruit.
- Can be made ahead and reheated.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 155mg
