Cherry Chocolate Bread Puddings

Cherry Chocolate Bread Puddings Recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Cherry Chocolate Bread Puddings are a delightful and indulgent dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and the sweet tartness of cherries. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.

History

Bread pudding has been a popular dessert for centuries, with variations found in many different cultures around the world. The addition of cherries and chocolate to this classic dish adds a modern twist and creates a unique flavor combination.

Ingredients

cooking spray
2 cups whole-grain bread
3 tbsp dried cherries
1 tbsp toasted wheat germ
0.67 cup fat-free milk
0.25 cup semisweet chocolate pieces
0.33 cup thawed refrigerated or frozen egg product
1 tsp orange peel
0.5 tsp vanilla
frozen light whipped dessert topping, thawed
unsweetened cocoa powder

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Coat four 6 oz (170 g) individual soufflé dishes or custard cups with nonstick cooking spray.
Divide bread cubes, cherries, and wheat germ among the dishes.
In a small saucepan, combine milk and chocolate.
Cook and stir over low heat until the chocolate melts; remove from heat.
If necessary, beat smooth with a wire whisk.
In a small bowl, gradually stir the chocolate mixture into the egg product.
Stir in orange peel and vanilla.
Pour the mixture over the bread cubes in the dishes.
Press lightly with the back of a spoon to moisten the bread.
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until the tops appear firm and a knife inserted near the centers comes out clean.
Serve warm.
If desired, serve with whipped topping and sprinkle with cocoa powder.

Variations

Try using different types of dried fruit, such as cranberries or raisins, in place of the cherries.
Experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark chocolate or white chocolate, for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use whole-grain bread for added fiber and nutrients.

- Toasting the wheat germ before adding it to the dish will enhance its nutty flavor.

- Make sure to press the bread cubes down into the liquid mixture to ensure they are fully soaked.

- Serve the bread puddings warm for the best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Cherry Chocolate Bread Puddings with a dollop of whipped topping and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an extra touch of sweetness.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have wheat germ, you can substitute ground flaxseed or almond meal.

- You can use regular milk instead of fat-free milk if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the bread puddings up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Simply reheat in the oven before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Cherry Chocolate Bread Puddings in individual soufflé dishes or custard cups for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Cherry Chocolate Bread Puddings with a glass of red wine or a cup of coffee for a delightful dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 220 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 32g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 5g per serving

Saturated Fat: 2g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 6g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of iron and calcium.

Alergens

Contains wheat, milk, and eggs.

Summary

Cherry Chocolate Bread Puddings are a delicious dessert option that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also a good source of iron and calcium.

Summary

Cherry Chocolate Bread Puddings are a decadent and delicious dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With a rich chocolate flavor and the sweet tartness of cherries, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Cherry Chocolate Bread Puddings. It was a warm summer day, and I had just returned from a visit to the local farmers market. As I unpacked my bags, I noticed a small pamphlet tucked away in one of the corners. Curious, I picked it up and started flipping through the pages.

There it was, a simple yet enticing recipe for Cherry Chocolate Bread Puddings. The combination of sweet cherries and rich chocolate immediately caught my eye, and I knew I had to give it a try. The recipe was handwritten, with little notes scribbled in the margins. It was clear that this was a cherished recipe, passed down through generations.

I decided to make the bread pudding that very afternoon. I gathered all the ingredients - stale bread, cherries, chocolate, milk, eggs, and sugar - and got to work in the kitchen. As I mixed and stirred, the sweet aroma of cherries and chocolate filled the air. I could hardly contain my excitement as I popped the dish into the oven and waited for it to bake.

When the bread pudding was finally ready, I took a bite and was instantly transported to dessert heaven. The flavors of the cherries and chocolate melded together perfectly, creating a decadent and satisfying treat. I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen.

Over the years, I have made the Cherry Chocolate Bread Puddings countless times, each time tweaking the recipe just a bit to make it my own. Sometimes I add a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for warmth. Other times, I experiment with different types of bread or chocolate to see how it changes the overall taste.

But no matter how I choose to customize the recipe, the end result is always the same - a delicious and comforting dessert that never fails to impress. I have shared this recipe with friends and family, who have all fallen in love with its simplicity and bold flavors.

As I sit here reminiscing about that fateful day at the farmers market, I am filled with gratitude for all the recipes I have collected over the years. Each one tells a story, a connection to the past that brings me joy and comfort in the present. And the Cherry Chocolate Bread Puddings will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the simple pleasures that can be found in a warm and lovingly prepared dessert.