Bittersweet Chocolate Bread Pudding

Bittersweet Chocolate Bread Pudding Recipe - Delicious and Decadent Dessert

Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Bittersweet Chocolate Bread Pudding is a decadent dessert that combines the rich, deep flavors of dark chocolate with the comforting, soft texture of classic bread pudding. This dish is perfect for chocolate lovers looking for a sophisticated twist on a traditional dessert. The recipe is straightforward, making it accessible to bakers of all skill levels, and it incorporates simple ingredients that come together to create a truly indulgent treat.

History

The concept of bread pudding dates back centuries, with variations found in many cultures around the world. It was originally a frugal way to use up stale bread, transforming it into a delicious dessert or even a savory dish, depending on the ingredients available. The addition of chocolate to bread pudding is a more modern innovation, reflecting the contemporary love for all things chocolate. This bittersweet chocolate bread pudding recipe is a testament to the evolution of this classic dish, offering a rich and luxurious version that pays homage to its humble origins.

Ingredients

0.75 cup stale breadcrumbs
2 cups scalded milk
1 oz (28 g) bitter chocolate
1 cup sugar
0.5 tsp salt
0.5 tsp vanilla
1 slightly beaten egg
0.33 cup sugar
0.5 tsp vanilla extract

Vanilla Sauce

1 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp flour
2 cups boiling water
0.25 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

How to prepare

Soak the bread in 1.75 cups of milk for thirty minutes.
Melt the chocolate over hot water. Gradually add the sugar and the remaining 0.25 cups of milk to make a smooth paste.
Add the salt, vanilla, and slightly beaten egg to the bread mixture.
Place the mixture in a well-buttered pudding dish and bake for 0.5 hour until set.
Serve with vanilla sauce, which is made by melting the butter and flour and stirring until it bubbles.
Add the boiling water and sugar. Boil until smooth and thoroughly cooked.
Add the flavoring, strain, and serve hot.

Variations

For a twist on the classic recipe, consider adding a splash of espresso or rum to the chocolate mixture for a deeper flavor profile. Alternatively, mix in some chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture and taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your bittersweet chocolate bread pudding turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.

- Stale bread works best as it absorbs the milk mixture more effectively, leading to a better texture in the final dish.

- Be careful not to overbake the pudding, as it should be moist and slightly wobbly in the center when done.

- For a smoother chocolate mixture, consider using a double boiler to melt the chocolate, preventing it from seizing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this bittersweet chocolate bread pudding warm, topped with the homemade vanilla sauce for added moisture and flavor. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can also complement the rich chocolate taste and add a cool contrast to the warm pudding.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe, requiring careful temperature control and timing to achieve the perfect texture. The double boiling method for melting chocolate is also crucial for preventing the chocolate from burning and ensuring a smooth mixture.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter version, almond milk or another non-dairy milk can replace the regular milk. Similarly, a sugar substitute can be used in place of regular sugar to reduce the dessert's overall calorie content. Gluten-free bread can be used to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Make Ahead Tips

This dessert can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Additionally, the vanilla sauce can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving, saving time and effort on the day of serving.

Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, serve individual portions of the bread pudding in ramekins or small bowls. Garnish with a mint leaf and a dusting of powdered sugar or cocoa powder for a professional touch.

Pairing Recommendations

A sweet dessert wine or a strong coffee makes an excellent pairing with bittersweet chocolate bread pudding, balancing the richness of the dessert with their own robust flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover bread pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at a low temperature until heated through. Alternatively, individual portions can be microwaved for a quick reheat.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of bittersweet chocolate bread pudding contains approximately 300 calories. Given its rich ingredients, it's best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a daily indulgence.

Carbohydrates

A serving of bittersweet chocolate bread pudding contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbs come from the sugar and bread, providing energy. For those monitoring their carb intake, this dessert should be enjoyed in moderation.

Fats

This dessert contains about 10 grams of fat per serving, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats. The fats primarily come from the chocolate, egg, and butter used in the recipe. While fats are essential for a balanced diet, moderation is key, especially with saturated fats.

Proteins

Each serving of bittersweet chocolate bread pudding offers around 5 grams of protein. The protein sources in this recipe include the milk and egg, which contribute to the dish's nutritional value by supporting muscle health and overall body function.

Vitamins and minerals

This dessert provides a range of vitamins and minerals, including calcium from the milk, iron from the chocolate, and various B vitamins from the bread. These nutrients play vital roles in bone health, oxygen transport, and energy production, respectively.

Alergens

Key allergens in this recipe include gluten (from the bread), dairy (from the milk and butter), and eggs. Those with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients should exercise caution or seek alternative recipes.

Summary

Bittersweet chocolate bread pudding is a rich, indulgent dessert that offers a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals. However, due to its calorie density and potential allergens, it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Bittersweet Chocolate Bread Pudding is a luxurious take on a classic dessert, offering a rich and satisfying end to any meal. With its deep chocolate flavor and soft, comforting texture, it's sure to delight any dessert lover. By following the tips and variations provided, you can customize the recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs, making it a versatile addition to your dessert repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated. Bittersweet chocolate bread pudding. The name alone conjured up images of rich, decadent sweetness that I could almost taste on my tongue. I had always been a lover of all things chocolate, and the thought of combining it with bread pudding was simply irresistible.

I had come across the recipe in an old cookbook that I had picked up at a yard sale years ago. The pages were yellowed and fragile, the binding cracked and worn. But as I flipped through the pages, I knew that I had stumbled upon a treasure trove of culinary delights.

The recipe for bittersweet chocolate bread pudding stood out to me immediately. It called for simple ingredients - bread, milk, eggs, sugar, and of course, bittersweet chocolate. But it was the method that intrigued me the most. The bread was soaked in a rich custard before being baked to perfection, creating a dessert that was both comforting and indulgent.

I decided then and there that I had to try my hand at making this decadent treat. I gathered the ingredients and set to work in my kitchen, following the recipe to the letter. As the pudding baked, the rich aroma of chocolate filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

When the timer finally dinged, I pulled the pudding from the oven and allowed it to cool slightly before taking my first bite. The taste was pure heaven - the bread had soaked up the custard, becoming soft and velvety, while the bittersweet chocolate added a deep, complex flavor that lingered on my palate.

I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my culinary repertoire. I shared it with friends and family, who all raved about its deliciousness. And as time went on, I began to make small tweaks and adjustments to the original recipe, adding a splash of bourbon here, a sprinkle of cinnamon there, until I had created a version that was truly my own.

Over the years, I have shared this recipe with countless people, passing it down from generation to generation. Each time I make it, I am reminded of the joy and satisfaction that cooking brings me, and the memories of all the people who have enjoyed this dessert at my table.

And so, as I sit here now, penning this story, I am filled with gratitude for the simple pleasures in life - a good recipe, a warm kitchen, and the love of family and friends. And I can only hope that whoever reads these words will be inspired to try their hand at making bittersweet chocolate bread pudding, and experience for themselves the magic that a good dessert can bring.