Name: Creamy Chocolate Bread Pudding That Warms the Heart
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 6 cups Day-Old Bread (brioche or challah) (Tear into bite-sized pieces.); 2 cups Whole Milk (Can be substituted with almond milk.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Can be reduced or replaced with more milk.); 4 Large Eggs (Use fresh eggs.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Adjust sweetness to taste.); 1 cup Dark Chocolate Chips (Use high-quality chocolate.); 2 teaspoons Peppermint Extract (Use pure extract for best flavor.); 1/2 cup Cocoa Powder (Dutch-process cocoa preferred.); 1 cup Whipped Cream (Optional: sprinkle with crushed candy canes.)

As I stood in my cozy kitchen, the enticing aroma of peppermint mingled with rich chocolate, wrapping around me like a warm hug. This Irresistible Peppermint Chocolate Bread Pudding isn’t just a holiday dessert; it’s a comforting celebration that takes stale bread and transforms it into an indulgent treat. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to whip up and can be tailored to fit any dietary needs with dairy-free options! Each indulgent spoonful offers a delightful mixture of creamy sweetness and refreshing mint, perfect for sharing with friends and family during festive gatherings. So, are you ready to dive into this deliciously nostalgic dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds?

Why is this Peppermint Bread Pudding Special?

Richness Awaits: This Creamy Chocolate Bread Pudding turns simple ingredients into a luxurious dessert that oozes chocolatey goodness and minty freshness.

Convenient & Quick: Prepare it in under an hour, making it the perfect last-minute holiday treat for unexpected guests!

Customizable Options: With ideas like a Dairy-Free Option or Nutty Addition, you can easily adjust it to please everyone at the table.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: The classic blend of peppermint and chocolate guarantees that your dessert will be the star of every gathering.

Perfect Comfort Food: Dive into this delightful dish that warms both the heart and the home, just like my Garlic Shrimp Spinach for a cozy dinner.

Creamy Chocolate Bread Pudding Ingredients

For the Pudding
• Day-Old Bread – A hearty base that absorbs the rich custard; brioche or challah adds extra flavor and moisture.
• Whole Milk – Contributes to creaminess; swap with almond milk for a tasty dairy-free option.
• Heavy Cream – Adds a luscious texture; reduce the amount or replace with more milk for a lighter treat.
• Large Eggs – Essential for binding; ensure they’re fresh for the best results.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the pudding; feel free to adjust based on your taste or use brown sugar for a hint of caramel flavor.
• Dark Chocolate Chips – The star of the show! Choose high-quality chocolate for delicious gooey pockets of goodness.
• Peppermint Extract – Delivering that signature minty flavor; opt for pure extract for the most authentic taste.
• Cocoa Powder – Deepens the chocolate notes; Dutch-process cocoa provides a richer profile.

For Serving
• Whipped Cream – Adds a light, airy topping; consider sprinkling on crushed candy canes for a festive flair.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Chocolate Bread Pudding

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and generously grease it with butter or non-stick spray to ensure the creamy chocolate bread pudding doesn’t stick during baking. This preparation step is crucial for achieving that perfect texture later on.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Tear your day-old brioche or challah bread into bite-sized pieces, roughly one inch in size. Evenly distribute the torn bread within the greased baking dish, creating a charming, rustic appearance. This bread will act as the base that absorbs the delightful custard mixture, setting the stage for a rich, satisfying dessert.

Step 3: Mix the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, large eggs, cocoa powder, and peppermint extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This velvety custard is the heart of the creamy chocolate bread pudding, so be sure to mix thoroughly to incorporate all the flavors.

Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips
Stir in the dark chocolate chips to the custard mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed. This step enriches the pudding with luscious chocolate pockets that will melt as it bakes. The mixture should look glossy and inviting, promising a delightful treat once baked.

Step 5: Combine Bread and Custard
Pour the custard mixture over the torn bread pieces in the baking dish, making sure to gently press down on the bread to ensure each piece is soaked. Allow the bread to absorb the custard for about 15 minutes, creating a wonderfully moist and flavorful creamy chocolate bread pudding.

Step 6: Bake the Pudding
Carefully place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly puffed. The edges should be set while the center remains a little soft, indicating that the pudding is perfectly cooked but still creamy.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the creamy chocolate bread pudding from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This brief resting period enhances the flavors and makes serving easier. Serve warm with a generous dollop of whipped cream on top and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes for that festive touch.

Creamy Chocolate Bread Pudding Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this delightful recipe to your liking!

Candy Cane Crunch: Fold in crushed candy canes for an extra peppermint punch, enhancing both flavor and texture.
Different Chocolate: Swap dark chocolate chips with milk or white chocolate for a sweeter twist; it’ll delight those with a sweeter tooth.
Nutty Addition: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the custard for a crunchy contrast that balances the creamy pudding beautifully.
Dairy-Free Option: Replace the whole milk with almond milk and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream to maintain richness without dairy.
Spiced Variation: Blend in a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to warm up the flavor profile, making this dessert feel even cozier on chilly nights.
Fresh Mint Infusion: For a more vibrant mint flavor, incorporate fresh mint leaves into the custard, enhancing the refreshing notes of your dish.
Chili Kick: For the adventurous, sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper into the custard for a surprising warmth that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
Decadent Drizzle: Top each serving with a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce for added sweetness and an elegant touch—perfect for a festive occasion.

Looking for more indulgent ideas? Try pairing your dessert with a slice of Caramel Banana Bread or some delectable Firecracker Chocolate Truffles for a truly cozy gathering!

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Chocolate Bread Pudding dishes are a dream for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hustle and bustle of the holidays! You can prepare the custard mixture (milk, cream, eggs, sugar, cocoa, and peppermint extract) up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. You can also tear the day-old bread and store it separately in an airtight container for up to 3 days, which helps prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the custard and bread, let it soak for 15 minutes, then bake as instructed. This way, you can enjoy a delicious, heartfelt dessert with minimal effort right when it’s needed most!

What to Serve with Irresistible Peppermint Chocolate Bread Pudding

The perfect pairing elevates your holiday feast, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate together.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their velvety texture complements the dense richness of the pudding, offering a satisfying contrast in every bite.
Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette is the perfect palate cleanser against the rich pudding. Toss together mixed greens and cranberries for a festive touch!
Homemade Hot Chocolate: Elevate the chocolate experience with a warm cup of hot chocolate, drizzled with peppermint syrup for a delightful match.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their nutty flavor and slight crunch balance the softness of the pudding, offering a savory element to your meal.
Candied Pecans: Sweet, crunchy pecans create a lovely contrast of texture and flavor when enjoyed alongside creamy chocolate bread pudding. They’re also a delightful snack on their own!
Spiced Apple Cider: Warm your guests from the inside out with a mug of spiced apple cider; its fruity aroma enhances the dessert’s peppermint notes.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts into the warm pudding, adding extra creaminess and a delightful cold contrast.
Chocolate Mint Cookies: For the cookie lovers, serving chocolate mint cookies as a side creates a chocolate celebration that everyone will adore.
Peppermint Bark: This sweet treat echoes the flavors within the pudding and serves as a delightful crunchy bite to end your meal.

Storage Tips for Creamy Chocolate Bread Pudding

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep the creamy chocolate bread pudding fresh and delicious.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Gently reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, use the microwave in 30-second intervals, ensuring it remains moist.

Serving Reminder: Enjoy this delightful dessert warm, topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes for an extra festive treat!

Expert Tips for Creamy Chocolate Bread Pudding

Bread Selection: Choose day-old brioche or challah; avoiding fresh bread ensures a better texture and prevents sogginess in your creamy chocolate bread pudding.
Custard Soaking Time: Allow the bread to soak for at least 15 minutes before baking; this helps infuse every piece with rich chocolate and peppermint flavor.
Baking Consistency: Look for a golden top and slightly soft center; overbaking can lead to a dry pudding, so check a few minutes early if you’re unsure.
Leftover Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring your delicious creamy chocolate bread pudding remains fresh.
Cutting Tips: For clean slices, let the pudding cool slightly before serving; this will help maintain its shape and highlight the decadent layers.

Creamy Chocolate Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs

How should I choose my day-old bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! Opt for brioche or challah for a rich flavor and texture. Look for bread that is slightly stale, which absorbs the custard better, avoiding fresh bread as it can lead to a soggy pudding. If you have some that’s just gone stale, it’s perfect!

What is the best way to store leftovers?
For sure! Store your creamy chocolate bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its rich flavors and creamy texture. If you want to save some for longer, freeze individual portions wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 months.

Can I freeze the pudding, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze your creamy chocolate bread pudding, first allow it to cool completely. Then, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. This method prevents freezer burn and keeps each serving fresh. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.

What should I do if my pudding looks too dry after baking?
Very! If you’ve baked your pudding and find it on the dry side, it’s possible it was baked a bit too long. For future reference, look for a golden-brown top and a slightly soft center as indicators of doneness. To remedy dry pudding, a scoop of warm custard or cream poured over each serving can add back moisture and flavor!

Is this dessert suitable for those with allergies?
For sure! If you’re concerned about allergies, this recipe can be tailored. You can easily substitute almond milk for whole milk and coconut cream for heavy cream to make it dairy-free. Just be cautious about chocolate chips; opt for a brand that is allergy-friendly if you’re serving guests with specific dietary needs.

Can I use any chocolate chips in this recipe?
Very! While dark chocolate chips provide a rich depth of flavor, you can absolutely switch them out for white or milk chocolate depending on your personal preference. Just keep in mind that using sweeter chocolate will alter the overall sweetness of the creamy chocolate bread pudding.