Calling all chocoholics, baking enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a decadent treat: Chocolate Bread and Butter Pudding! Prepare to embark on a journey to the land of gooey, warm, and utterly irresistible.
This dessert isn’t just a sweet treat; it’s a symphony of textures and flavors, a nostalgic hug in a bowl, and a testament to culinary ingenuity.
From Humble Beginnings to Chocolate Bread and Butter Pudding:
Chocolate Bread and Butter Pudding have a rich history, dating back to medieval Europe. Back then, stale bread was transformed into a luxurious treat by soaking it in custard and baking it.
Fast forward to the 17th century, and the addition of chocolate ushered in a golden age. Imagine, indulging in a creamy, chocolatey pudding studded with soft bread chunks – pure bliss!
The Allure of the Chocolate Bread and Butter Pudding:
So, what makes chocolate bread and butter pudding so special? Firstly, it’s a masterclass in utilizing leftovers. That forgotten loaf at the back of the pantry? It’s begging to be reborn as a pudding hero! Secondly, the combination of textures is pure magic.
The soft, melt-in-your-mouth bread contrasts beautifully with the smooth, rich custard, creating a heavenly bite in every spoonful. And then, there’s the chocolate. Ah, the chocolate! Whether you prefer dark, milk, or even white, it adds a depth of flavor that takes this pudding to a whole new level.
Crafting Your Chocolate Bread and Butter Pudding Masterpiece:
Ready to whip up your own batch of chocolatey goodness? The beauty of this pudding lies in its versatility. You can keep it classic with simple ingredients like butter, eggs, milk, and bread, or get creative with spices, liqueurs, or even chopped nuts. Here’s a sneak peek into the process:
1. Prep your bread: Slice and butter those crusty heroes, or opt for torn chunks for a rustic feel.
2. Whip up the custard: A creamy blend of eggs, milk, and chocolate awaits, infused with your chosen flavors.
3. Assemble and bake: Layer the bread in a dish, pour the custard over, and let the oven work its magic. The aroma alone will have you drooling!
Beyond the Basics:
Once you’ve mastered the classic, get adventurous! Here are some ideas:
Spiced it up: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even ginger for a warm and comforting twist.
Fruitful Fusion: Fold in berries, chopped apples, or even bananas for a burst of fresh flavor.
Go Nuts: Pecans, walnuts, or almonds add a delightful crunch and extra richness.
Boozy Delight: A splash of rum, Baileys, or even orange liqueur adds a sophisticated touch (for adults, of course!).
Chocolate Bread and Butter Pudding
Ingredients
For the bread and butter:
- 6 slices white bread about 12 oz, crusts removed and cut into 4 triangles each
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter softened
For the chocolate mixture:
- 4 oz 113 g good-quality dark chocolate, broken into pieces (60-70% cocoa solids is preferred)
- 1 cup 240 ml heavy whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon rum optional
- 1/3 cup 67 g granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 large eggs
For garnish (optional):
- Whipped cream
- Flaked almonds
- Chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Prepare the bread and butter: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly butter a rectangular baking dish (approximately 9×13 inches). Spread the bread triangles out on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, until golden brown. Set aside.
- Make the chocolate mixture: In a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water (don’t let the bowl touch the water), melt the chocolate with the whipping cream and rum (if using). Stir in the sugar, butter, and cinnamon until everything is smooth and combined. Remove from heat.
- Whisk the eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until frothy. Slowly pour the warm chocolate mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly to temper them and prevent curdling.
- Assemble the pudding: Spread a thin layer of the chocolate mixture in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange half of the toasted bread triangles in a single layer on top, overlapping slightly. Pour half of the remaining chocolate mixture over the bread. Repeat with the remaining bread and chocolate mixture, ending with a final layer of chocolate. Gently press down on the bread to soak up the liquid.
- Bake and chill: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the pudding is set around the edges but still slightly wobbly in the center. Remove from the oven and let cool completely at room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 24 hours, or up to 3 days, for the flavors to develop.
- Serve and enjoy: When ready to serve, preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Remove the pudding from the refrigerator and uncover it. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until warmed through. Let cool slightly before serving. Top with whipped cream, flaked almonds, and chocolate shavings (optional).
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use full-fat milk instead of water when making the chocolate mixture.
- If you don’t have rum, you can substitute it with vanilla extract.
- You can substitute brioche bread for the white bread for a slightly richer flavor and texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
FAQs for the Budding Pudding Chef:
What type of bread is best?
Stale bread works best, as it absorbs the custard beautifully. Day-old bread is perfect, but if your loaf is fresh, simply toast it lightly beforehand.
Can I use different kinds of chocolate?
Absolutely! For a richer flavor, experiment with dark, milk, white chocolate, or even cocoa powder.
How do I prevent the bread from becoming soggy?
Don’t oversoak the bread! Briefly dip each piece in the custard before layering, and avoid letting it sit for too long.
Can I make it ahead?
You sure can! Assemble the pudding and refrigerate overnight for a deeper flavor. Just bake it directly from the fridge for a slightly longer time.
The Verdict:
Indulge in a sensory delight with Chocolate Bread and Butter Pudding—an embodiment of culinary experience rather than just a dessert. It elevates humble ingredients into an exquisite symphony of flavors.
Prepare to embark on a journey into pure, unbridled chocolate ecstasy by assembling your ingredients, warming up the oven, and embracing this decadent creation. Let your creativity soar as there are no boundaries to what you can achieve!
And if you relish this delightful treat, explore our equally tantalizing ginger pudding recipe for another unforgettable culinary adventure.
