Chocolate Bread And Butter Pudding

Chocolate Bread and Butter Pudding is a decadent twist on the traditional British dessert, transforming leftover bread into a rich, custardy treat. Layers of buttered bread are soaked in a creamy chocolate custard, then baked until golden and gooey, with a crisp top and a luscious, soft center. It’s the perfect dessert for any chocolate lover and a great way to use up stale bread. Serve it warm with a drizzle of cream, a scoop of ice cream, or just on its own for a comforting, indulgent treat.

Ingredients:

• 8 slices of stale white bread (or brioche, croissants)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate, chopped
• 3 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
• Whipped cream or ice cream, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish (approximately 8×8 inches or similar).
2. Butter the bread: Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread. Cut the slices into triangles or cubes, and layer them in the greased baking dish, slightly overlapping.
3. Make the chocolate custard: In a saucepan, gently heat the milk, cream, and sugar over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped dark chocolate until melted and smooth. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
4. Whisk the eggs and cocoa: In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, vanilla extract, and cocoa powder together until smooth. Gradually pour the chocolate mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly to avoid curdling.
5. Pour the custard over the bread: Slowly pour the chocolate custard over the buttered bread in the baking dish, ensuring all the pieces are well coated. Let the bread soak in the custard for 10 minutes. If using, sprinkle chocolate chips over the top for extra decadence.
6. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the pudding is set but still slightly wobbly in the center and the top is golden and crisp.
7. Serve: Dust with powdered sugar, if desired, and serve warm with whipped cream, ice cream, or a drizzle of cream.

This Chocolate Bread and Butter Pudding is a warm, comforting dessert perfect for any chocolate craving and a wonderful way to elevate simple ingredients.