Chocolate Pumpkin Bread Pudding

Chocolate Pumpkin Bread Pudding is a decadent and comforting dessert that marries the rich flavors of chocolate with the warm, spiced notes of pumpkin. This indulgent treat is perfect for fall gatherings, holiday celebrations, or any time you’re craving a luxurious, cozy dessert. Its creamy texture and deep flavors make it a standout addition to any dessert table.

Table of Contents

1.Ingredients

For the Bread Pudding:

6 cups day-old bread, cubed (such as challah, brioche, or French bread)
1 cup canned pumpkin puree
1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
4 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Chocolate Sauce:

1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon light corn syrup (optional, for shine)

Optional Toppings:

Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
Chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts)
Additional chocolate shavings

2.Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread:

a. Preheat Oven & Prepare Dish: – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). – Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray.

b. Cube the Bread: – Cut the day-old bread into 1-inch cubes. Fresh bread can become too soggy, so using day-old bread ensures the pudding holds its structure.

c. Combine with Pumpkin and Chocolate: – In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes, pumpkin puree, and chocolate chips. Gently toss to ensure the bread is evenly coated with the pumpkin and chocolate.

2. Make the Custard Mixture:

a. Whisk Wet Ingredients: – In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.

b. Add Spices and Salt: – Stir in the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt. These spices add warmth and depth to the pudding.

3. Combine and Soak:

a. Pour Custard Over Bread: – Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, pumpkin, and chocolate mixture. Use a spatula to ensure all the bread cubes are submerged.

b. Let Soak: – Allow the mixture to sit for about 15-20 minutes, letting the bread absorb the custard. For best results, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1-2 hours or overnight.

4. Bake the Bread Pudding:

a. Bake: – Cover the prepared baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. – Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set.

b. Cool Slightly: – Remove from the oven and let the bread pudding cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

5. Prepare the Chocolate Sauce:

a. Heat Cream: – In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer.

b. Melt Chocolate: – Remove the saucepan from heat and add the chocolate chips, stirring until smooth.

c. Add Butter and Corn Syrup: – Stir in the unsalted butter until melted and the sauce is glossy. If desired, add the light corn syrup for extra shine.

6. Serve:

a. Portion the Pudding: – Scoop individual servings of the warm bread pudding onto plates or into bowls.

b. Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce: – Generously drizzle the warm chocolate sauce over each serving.

c. Add Optional Toppings: – Top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Sprinkle with chopped nuts or additional chocolate shavings for added texture and flavor.

3.Tips for Success

Bread Selection: Choose a sturdy bread like challah, brioche, or French bread to maintain the pudding’s structure. Avoid overly soft breads that may become too mushy.
Day-Old Bread: Using day-old bread allows it to better absorb the custard without disintegrating.
Spice Balance: Adjust the spices according to your taste preference. For a spicier pudding, increase the amounts of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
Soaking Time: Allowing the bread to soak longer enhances the pudding’s texture and flavor integration.
Chocolate Quality: Use high-quality chocolate for a richer and more intense flavor in both the bread pudding and the sauce.

4.Variations

White Chocolate and Pecan: Substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with white chocolate chips and add chopped pecans for a different flavor profile and added crunch.
Vegan Option: Replace eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture, use plant-based milk and cream alternatives, and ensure the bread is vegan-friendly.
Add Caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce over the pudding before serving for an extra layer of sweetness.
Spiced Rum: Add a tablespoon of spiced rum to the custard mixture for an adult version with a subtle kick.

5.Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used and serving sizes.

Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 8 g
Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Sugars: 30 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sodium: 300 mg

6.Background & Popularity

Chocolate Pumpkin Bread Pudding is a modern twist on traditional bread pudding, incorporating the beloved flavors of pumpkin and chocolate. Its emergence can be traced to the fusion of classic comfort desserts with seasonal ingredients, particularly popular during the autumn months when pumpkin is in peak season. The addition of chocolate enhances the dessert’s richness, making it a favorite among chocolate lovers seeking a hearty and satisfying treat.

This dessert’s versatility allows it to be adapted for various dietary preferences and occasions, contributing to its widespread popularity. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or as a decadent brunch dish, Chocolate Pumpkin Bread Pudding stands out for its luxurious texture and harmonious blend of flavors.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, enjoying a cozy night in, or looking to impress guests with a sophisticated dessert, Chocolate Pumpkin Bread Pudding is a stellar choice that combines tradition with indulgence.