As the holiday season approaches and the air becomes crisp, I find myself searching for that perfect dessert to warm those chilly evenings. Enter the star of my kitchen: Irresistible Peppermint Chocolate Bread Pudding. The moment I pull this treat from the oven, the sweet scent of melted chocolate mingling with bold peppermint fills the room, creating an inviting atmosphere that beckons friends and family to gather.
This delightful dish is more than just a dessert; it’s a heartwarming concoction of rich flavors and comforting textures that turns ordinary bread into something truly magical. Imagine softly soaked bread in a luscious custard, revealing gooey pockets of dark chocolate with each spoonful. Whether serving it at a festive gathering or indulging on a cozy night in, this Peppermint Chocolate Bread Pudding guarantees smiles all around—and it’s surprisingly simple to make! Join me in creating this holiday favorite that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why is this Chocolate Bread Pudding special?
Irresistible flavor: Rich chocolate mingles with refreshing peppermint for a unique twist.
Comfort in every bite: This dessert transforms stale bread into a warm, creamy delight.
Simple preparation: With minimal effort, you can craft a dish that sounds gourmet.
Versatile options: Feel free to customize with toppings like crushed candy canes or different types of chocolate!
Perfect for gatherings: This crowd-pleaser is guaranteed to bring smiles and delight at any holiday table. Enjoy this delectable creation, and for more cozy desserts, don’t miss our ultimate guide to holiday baking!
Chocolate Bread Pudding Ingredients
Experience the magic of flavors!
For the Base
- Day-Old Bread – Essential for texture; stale bread absorbs custard beautifully. Brioche or challah is preferred for richness.
- Whole Milk – Provides creaminess for texture; can be substituted with almond milk for a dairy-free option.
- Heavy Cream – Adds richness and depth; for lighter alternatives, reduce quantity or substitute with more milk.
- Eggs – Binds ingredients together; large eggs are standard in baking for best results.
For the Flavor
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dish; adjust to personal taste or use brown sugar for a nuanced flavor.
- Dark Chocolate Chips – Main flavor component; use high-quality chocolate to ensure gooey pockets of bliss.
- Peppermint Extract – Imparts a refreshing mint flavor; use pure extract for authenticity.
- Cocoa Powder – Deepens chocolate flavor; Dutch-process cocoa offers richness; unsweetened balances sweetness.
For Serving
- Whipped Cream – Enhances dessert; add crushed candy canes for a festive touch.
How to Make Chocolate Bread Pudding
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This ensures your pudding will bake evenly and release easily once it’s done.
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Tear the day-old bread into bite-sized pieces and evenly distribute them in the baking dish. Evenly spread bread creates the best texture throughout your pudding.
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Whisk together whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, eggs, cocoa powder, and peppermint extract in a bowl until smooth and fragrant. You want a luscious, creamy mixture that combines all those delightful flavors.
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Stir in dark chocolate chips, ensuring they are well mixed into the custard. Your chocolate chips will create those delicious gooey pockets that everyone loves!
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Pour the custard mixture over the torn bread and gently press down to ensure all pieces soak up the liquid. This step is key for achieving a custardy consistency in every bite.
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Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until set, golden on top, and slightly puffed. The top should be a beautiful golden brown, signaling that it’s time to enjoy!
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Cool for a few minutes before serving warm, topped with whipped cream and optional crushed candy canes. The coolness of the whipped cream with minty sweetness elevates the whole experience!
Optional: Garnish with extra chocolate shavings for an added touch of indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Chocolate Bread Pudding
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Stale Bread is Key: Ensure your bread is well-stale; this allows it to fully absorb the custard, creating a delectably creamy Chocolate Bread Pudding.
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Quality Ingredients Matter: Use high-quality dark chocolate chips for the best flavor; they will create those gooey pockets of bliss throughout the pudding.
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Soak Time: Let the mixture sit for at least 15 minutes before baking to avoid a soggy bottom and achieve the ideal custard consistency.
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Check for Doneness: Look for a golden top and a set center while baking; undercooking will result in a “bread soup” texture, which you want to avoid.
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Garnish Creatively: Enhance each serving with whipped cream and festive crushed candy canes for an added touch of sweetness and crunch!
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Bread Pudding
Fridge: Store leftover Chocolate Bread Pudding in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the pudding moist and delicious for quick access!
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then gently reheat in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, ensuring every bite is as delightful as the first.
Make Ahead Options
These Irresistible Peppermint Chocolate Bread Pudding treats are perfect for busy home cooks seeking to streamline their meal planning! You can prepare the custard mixture (whole milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, cocoa powder, and peppermint extract) up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain its freshness. The bread can be torn and added to the baking dish, ready for the custard to soak in just before baking. When you’re ready to serve, pour the refrigerated custard over the bread, press it down gently, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy warm, delicious chocolate bread pudding with minimal effort!
Chocolate Bread Pudding Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this delicious dish truly your own with these fun twists!
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Candy Cane Crunch: Add crushed candy canes to the custard for an extra burst of peppermint and festive crunch.
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Different Chocolate: Swap the dark chocolate chips for white or milk chocolate for a sweeter flavor profile that kids will love.
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Nutty Addition: Toss in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and added richness in texture.
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Sour Dough Swap: Use sourdough bread for a tangy twist that complements the sweet chocolate and mint beautifully.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute whole milk with almond milk and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a creamy yet dairy-free option.
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Spiced Variation: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard for a warm, spicy flavor that enhances the chocolate.
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Fresh Mint Infusion: Incorporate fresh mint leaves into the custard for an intensified minty flavor that freshens the pudding.
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Chili Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the mix for a surprising warmth that stays on your palate.
With these variations, you can create your own signature version of this comforting dessert!
What to Serve with Peppermint Chocolate Bread Pudding?
Creating the perfect meal with this indulgent dessert in mind can elevate your dining experience to a whole new level.
- Rich Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop complements the pudding’s warmth, adding creaminess and balancing the rich chocolate with sweetness.
- Fresh Berries: The tartness of raspberries or strawberries enhances the dessert’s richness while adding a pop of color and freshness.
- Hot Chocolate: For chocolate lovers, a warm mug of hot cocoa with a hint of peppermint can create a cozy pairing, perfect for holiday gatherings.
- Frosty Peppermint Milkshake: Serve this delightful shake alongside for a refreshing nod to the same flavors found in the pudding.
- Coffee or Espresso: A robust cup brings out the chocolate notes, making it a match made in heaven, especially after a rich dessert.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: For a light, dairy-free topping, this adds a hint of tropical flavor that contrasts beautifully with the chocolate.
- Candied Nuts: A sprinkle of sweet, crunchy nuts offers an unexpected texture and an extra layer of flavor to each bite.
- Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted chocolate on top can elevate presentation and saturate the dish with even more chocolaty goodness!
Peppermint Chocolate Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs
What type of bread works best for this recipe?
Day-old bread is essential for this Peppermint Chocolate Bread Pudding. I recommend using brioche or challah for their rich texture and ability to absorb the custard beautifully. If you have sourdough or a hearty whole wheat bread on hand, those can also add unique flavors and textures!
How should I store leftover Peppermint Chocolate Bread Pudding?
Leftover pudding should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps to retain its moisture and flavor. If you want to enjoy it later, consider freezing it!
Can I freeze Peppermint Chocolate Bread Pudding?
Absolutely! To freeze, first let the pudding cool completely. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container, which ensures they don’t stick together. You can keep them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just make sure to label them so you can easily find that indulgent treat later!
What should I do if my bread pudding is too soggy?
If your Peppermint Chocolate Bread Pudding turns out too soggy, it might be due to not fully letting the bread soak or using too much liquid. To salvage it, I recommend baking it a little longer to dry it out. Keep an eye on the top to avoid burning, and check for a set center—you want it to be just right!
Are there any dietary considerations for this dessert?
Definitely! For allergy considerations, ensure that the ingredients like chocolate chips and whipped cream are free of common allergens, such as dairy or gluten, if needed. You can substitute whole milk with almond milk for a dairy-free option. When serving, always check with your guests for any dietary restrictions!
Can I add toppings to enhance the dessert?
Very! You can enhance your Peppermint Chocolate Bread Pudding with a dollop of whipped cream and crushed candy canes, which add a delightful crunch. Feel free to experiment with chocolate shavings or even a drizzle of hot fudge for an extra layer of indulgence!
Creamy Chocolate Bread Pudding to Warm Your Heart
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Tear the day-old bread into bite-sized pieces and evenly distribute them in the baking dish.
- Whisk together whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, eggs, cocoa powder, and peppermint extract in a bowl until smooth and fragrant.
- Stir in dark chocolate chips, ensuring they are well mixed into the custard.
- Pour the custard mixture over the torn bread and gently press down to ensure all pieces soak up the liquid.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until set, golden on top, and slightly puffed.
- Cool for a few minutes before serving warm, topped with whipped cream and optional crushed candy canes.