Chocolate Bread Pudding Recipe
This Chocolate Bread Pudding Recipe is warm, soft, and full of rich chocolate flavor. It is a classic dessert that many people love in New Orleans. Made with French bread, sweet custard, and chocolate chips, this dessert is simple but very special. When served with warm mocha brandy sauce, it becomes a perfect ending to any meal.
This dessert is great for holidays, family dinners, or even a weekend treat. If you are looking for an easy chocolate bread pudding recipe that feels homemade and comforting, this one is perfect for you.
You can enjoy it warm with ice cream or serve it at a party. No matter when you make it, this classic bread pudding dessert will always impress.
Classic New Orleans Chocolate Bread Pudding
Bread pudding has deep roots in Louisiana cooking. Many restaurants in New Orleans serve their own version of this famous dessert. This New Orleans bread pudding recipe uses simple ingredients but delivers rich flavor and soft texture.
The base is made from stale French bread soaked in a sweet custard mixture. The bread absorbs the milk, eggs, sugar, and vanilla, creating a soft inside and slightly crisp top after baking. Chocolate chips melt into the pudding and add a decadent chocolate taste.
At Mardi Gras School of Cooking, all of our dishes are inspired by traditional Cajun and Creole recipes. It is easy to make at home, but tastes like it came from your favorite New Orleans restaurant.
Why You Will Love This Chocolate Bread Pudding Recipe
Rich Chocolate Flavor
This chocolate bread pudding is filled with chocolate chips that melt while baking. Every bite has melty chocolate that keeps you coming back for more. If you love chocolate, this bread pudding recipe will quickly become your favorite.
Soft and Crisp Texture
The custard mixture keeps this dessert soft and moist. The top becomes slightly golden while the inside stays tender. The water bath helps keep the texture smooth and prevents it from drying out.
Easy to Make at Home
This homemade bread pudding recipe does not require special tools. The steps are simple, and the ingredients are easy to find. It is perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike!
Chocolate Bread Pudding with Mocha Brandy Sauce
20 minutes
1 hour 15 minutes
8
Dessert
Cajun/ Creole
Ingredients for Chocolate Bread Pudding Recipe
Bread Pudding Ingredients
2 (14 oz) loaves French bread (stale)
8 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
2 cups whole milk
2 cups sugar
4 eggs
2 tablespoons vanilla extract
12 oz chocolate chips
Stale French bread works best because it absorbs the custard mixture better than fresh bread, plus it is a great use for leftover bread. Whole milk adds richness and gives the pudding a creamy texture. The chocolate chips melt into the bread and create pockets of sweet chocolate throughout the dessert.
Using good-quality chocolate chips will improve the flavor. This simple mix of ingredients creates a classic bread pudding that tastes rich and comforting.
Mocha Brandy Sauce Ingredients
1 stick unsalted butter
1 ½ cups powdered sugar
½ cup mocha instant coffee mix
½ cup brandy
This mocha sauce for bread pudding adds a deep flavor. The coffee mix gives a light mocha taste, while the brandy adds a warm, spicy hit that we love. When poured over warm pudding, the sauce makes the dessert even more special.
If you prefer, you can reduce the brandy or replace it with milk for a non-alcoholic version.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Bread Pudding
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F so it is fully heated before baking. Lightly grease a 9”x5” loaf pan with butter or cooking spray. This helps the chocolate bread pudding come out easily after baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Tear the stale French bread into inch-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl. Do not cut the bread too small, as larger pieces give better texture. Stale bread works best because it absorbs the custard mixture well.
Step 3: Mix the Custard
In a separate bowl, combine melted butter, milk, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well blended. Then stir in the chocolate chips to create the rich base for this chocolate chip bread pudding.
Step 4: Combine Bread and Custard
Slowly pour the custard mixture over the bread pieces. Gently fold everything together so all the bread is soaked. Do not mash the bread, as this keeps the pudding soft and light.
Step 5: Fill the Pan
Spoon the soaked bread mixture into the greased loaf pan. Spread it evenly so it bakes evenly. You can add a few extra chocolate chips on top if you like more chocolate flavor.
Step 6: Prepare the Water Bath
Place the loaf pan into a larger roasting pan. Carefully pour hot water into the outer pan until it reaches halfway up the sides. This water bath helps the Chocolate Bread Pudding Recipe bake evenly and stay moist.
Step 7: Bake
Place the pan carefully in the oven and bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. The top should turn golden brown. The center should be set but still soft when gently touched.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Remove the pudding from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. This helps it firm up slightly and makes slicing easier. Serve warm with mocha sauce poured over the top.
Making the Mocha Brandy Sauce
Step 1: Melt and Mix
In a saucepan over medium heat, cream the butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Stir gently so the mixture does not burn. It should become creamy and well combined.
Step 2: Finish the Sauce
Remove the pan from heat and stir in the mocha instant coffee mix and brandy. Mix until smooth and fully blended. Serve the sauce warm over the homemade bread pudding recipe for the best flavor.
Printable Chocolate Bread Pudding Recipe Card
This printable version makes it easy to save your favorite homemade bread pudding recipe.
Variations You Can Try
Chocolate Chip and Pecan Bread Pudding
Add chopped pecans to the mixture before baking for a nutty crunch in every bite. The nuts balance the sweetness of the chocolate and add a warm flavor. This version is perfect for fall.
Dark Chocolate Version
Use dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate or semi-sweet chips for a richer taste. Dark chocolate gives a deeper flavor and makes the dessert less sweet. This option is great for those who prefer a bold chocolate bread pudding recipe.
No Alcohol Sauce Option
If you prefer not to use alcohol, replace the brandy with milk or heavy cream. The sauce will be smooth, creamy, and delicious. This option makes the homemade bread pudding recipe family-friendly while keeping the flavor rich and comforting.
What to Serve with Chocolate Bread Pudding
This dessert tastes amazing with:
Vanilla ice cream
Fresh whipped cream
Hot coffee or espresso
A light dusting of powdered sugar
Many restaurants in New Orleans serve bread pudding after Cajun or Creole meals. The warm chocolate dessert pairs well with coffee and makes a perfect ending to dinner.
About Mardi Gras School of Cooking
The Mardi Gras School of Cooking is located in the heart of the French Quarter in New Orleans. It started in 1988 when Chef Bond opened his home kitchen in Algiers Point. His goal was to teach people how to cook Cajun and Creole dishes in a fun and friendly way.
Today, the school offers hands-on cooking classes where guests wear aprons, learn knife skills, and understand the history behind Louisiana food. The school also hosts private events and corporate gatherings for up to 125 guests.
This Chocolate Bread Pudding Recipe reflects the rich dessert tradition of New Orleans that students learn in class.
Join a Cooking Class and Learn More New Orleans Recipes
If you enjoyed this classic bread pudding dessert, imagine learning it in person. At Mardi Gras School of Cooking, you can join a hands-on class and cook traditional Louisiana dishes from start to finish.
You will learn seasoning tips, cooking skills, and the story behind each recipe. It is perfect for visitors, families, and team-building events.
Visit the Mardi Gras School of Cooking website to book your class and experience the flavors of New Orleans yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What type of bread works best for chocolate bread pudding?
Stale or day-old bread works best as it absorbs the custard better. Brioche, challah, or French bread are popular choices because of their soft texture and slight sweetness. Avoid overly dense breads, as they may not soak up the chocolate custard evenly.
Can I make chocolate bread pudding dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute milk or cream with almond, oat, or soy milk, and use dairy-free butter. You can also use dairy-free chocolate chips to keep the rich flavor intact while accommodating lactose intolerance or vegan preferences without sacrificing taste.
Can I make chocolate bread pudding ahead of time?
Yes! Chocolate bread pudding can be prepared a day in advance. Simply assemble the pudding, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh when needed, or warm pre-baked pudding in the oven before serving. This helps the flavors meld, making it even more rich and delicious.
How do I get a gooey center in chocolate bread pudding?
To achieve a gooey center, slightly underbake the pudding and let it rest. The residual heat will continue cooking the custard. Using a higher chocolate-to-bread ratio and not over-soaking the bread also ensures a soft, creamy texture inside while keeping the top lightly set.
Can chocolate bread pudding be frozen?
Absolutely! Bake the pudding first, let it cool completely, and wrap it tightly in foil or an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Defrost, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Freezing may slightly change texture but the flavor remains rich and chocolatey.