Name: Decadent Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding: Gooey Perfection Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 3 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 loaf (about 1 pound) sweet bread (like brioche or challah), torn into 1-inch pieces; 4 large eggs; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 8 ounces cream cheese, chilled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes; 1 1/2 cups dark chocolate chunks or chips, divided; Unsalted butter, for greasing the baking dish

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Introduction

If you’re craving a rich and comforting dessert, this Decadent Chocolate & Cream Cheese Bread Pudding is pure perfection. Combining gooey cream cheese, melty dark chocolate, and sweet custardy bread, it’s an indulgent treat that’s surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for cozy evenings or special occasions.

A close-up of a thick slice of a pastry dessert on a white plate, placed on a white marbled surface. The slice shows multiple layers starting from a golden, flaky crust that is slightly browned on the edges. Inside, there is a creamy white layer that looks soft and smooth, followed by a thick, glossy dark chocolate layer that appears slightly melted and gooey. The top of the pastry has chunks of dark chocolate embedded in the golden crust, adding texture and depth. The layers are uneven but richly filled, making the dessert look indulgent and fresh. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 loaf (about 1 pound) sweet bread (like brioche or challah), torn into 1-inch pieces
4 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
8 ounces cream cheese, chilled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1 1/2 cups dark chocolate chunks or chips, divided
Unsalted butter, for greasing the baking dish

Instructions

Step 1: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter. Scatter the torn bread pieces evenly in the prepared dish.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread in the baking dish. Gently press down on the bread pieces to help them absorb the liquid. Let sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or cover and refrigerate for 2 hours or overnight for best results.
Step 4: After soaking, gently stir in the cream cheese cubes and 1 cup of the dark chocolate chunks, distributing them evenly.
Step 5: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of chocolate chunks over the top of the pudding.
Step 6: Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Avoid overbaking to keep the center gooey.
Step 7: Remove from oven and let cool for 15 to 20 minutes before serving to allow the creamy center to fully set. Serve warm and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

For an extra flavor boost, add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the custard mixture.
Swap dark chocolate for semi-sweet or milk chocolate for a sweeter pudding.
Try adding a handful of toasted nuts or dried fruit for added texture.
Ensure thorough soaking time to prevent dry bread and achieve that luscious gooey center.

Storage

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions gently in the microwave until warmed through, or in a 325°F oven for 10-15 minutes. The texture may firm slightly once chilled but will soften nicely when reheated.

How to Serve

A close-up of a thick slice of layered dessert placed on a white plate with a slightly raised rim, set against a white marbled surface. The dessert has four main visible layers: the top layer is golden brown with a crisp, flaky texture, adorned with chunks of dark chocolate. Beneath it, there is a smooth creamy white layer, followed by a thick dark melted chocolate layer that appears rich and glossy. The bottom layer consists of a mixed texture of slightly crumbly dough with chocolate bits. The edges of the slice are browned and flaky, showing the baked crust wrapping around the layers. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, brioche and challah work best due to their richness, but you can also use other sweet breads or even sturdy white bread. Avoid very dense or whole grain breads for best texture.

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

You can omit the cream cheese or substitute with mascarpone or ricotta for a slightly different but still creamy result.