Easy Chocolate Bread Pudding Recipe

Published: 10 Feb 2026

If you are looking for a cozy, indulgent dessert, this easy chocolate bread pudding recipe is perfect. Soft bread soaked in a rich chocolate custard, baked until golden and warm, this dessert is both comforting and delicious. It is simple enough for beginners, yet indulgent enough to impress family, friends, or guests. Whether you are using leftover bread or fresh slices, this recipe turns everyday ingredients into a dessert that tastes like it came from a bakery.

This guide will walk you through every detail—from choosing the best bread to creating a creamy chocolate custard, baking it to perfection, and serving it with toppings that bring out the best flavors. You’ll also find tips, variations, and storage instructions to make this recipe completely foolproof.

Table of Content

Why This Easy Chocolate Bread Pudding Works Every Time

This recipe is designed to be forgiving, making it perfect for both new bakers and experienced ones. It uses simple ingredients that most people already have at home, and it doesn’t require fancy equipment. The custard soaks into the bread perfectly, ensuring each bite is soft, moist, and flavorful.

Here’s why it stands out:

The bread absorbs just the right amount of custard for a soft, rich texture.
Chocolate flavor is rich but balanced, never overpowering.
Optional add-ins like chocolate chips or bananas make it customizable.
Baking time and temperature are easy to follow, so the dessert comes out consistent every time.

This recipe works well for everyday dessert, for using up leftover bread, or as a show-stopping treat for special occasions.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Easy Chocolate Bread Pudding

Bread Choices That Work Best

The type of bread you use affects the final texture. Slightly stale bread works best because it absorbs the custard without becoming mushy. You can also use fresh bread; just allow it to dry for a few hours. Recommended breads include:

White sandwich bread
Brioche or milk bread for extra richness
Chocolate bread for a deeper chocolate flavor

Chocolate and Dairy Ingredients

Chocolate is the star of this dessert. Use high-quality cocoa powder or melted chocolate for the custard. Adding chocolate chips enhances the texture and creates pockets of melted chocolate in the pudding. Dairy gives the custard creaminess and richness. Ingredients include:

Milk (whole milk is best for creaminess)
Heavy cream for a richer custard
Cocoa powder or melted chocolate
Chocolate chips (optional, but highly recommended)

Custard Base Ingredients

The custard binds the bread together and gives the pudding its soft, creamy texture. Eggs add structure, sugar adds sweetness, and vanilla adds warmth. Ingredients include:

Eggs (for structure and smooth texture)
Granulated sugar (for sweetness)
Vanilla extract (to enhance the chocolate flavor)

These simple ingredients combine to make a dessert that is both indulgent and approachable.

Step-by-Step Recipe Method (Core Section)

Follow each step carefully. Take your time and enjoy the process. This recipe is forgiving, but attention to detail ensures perfect results.

6 Step Recipe Formula

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Tear the bread into roughly 1-inch cubes. Place the cubes in a lightly greased baking dish, spreading them evenly. Slightly dry or stale bread will absorb the custard better, giving you a creamy texture without sogginess.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Custard

In a medium saucepan, combine the milk and heavy cream. Heat gently over medium heat until warm, but do not let it boil. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and cocoa powder (or melted chocolate). Slowly pour the warm milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking continuously to prevent the eggs from curdling. Add vanilla extract and mix until smooth. The custard should be glossy and slightly thickened.

Step 3: Combine Bread and Custard

Pour the chocolate custard evenly over the bread cubes. Gently press the bread down to ensure each piece soaks up the custard. Allow it to sit for 10–15 minutes. This step helps the bread absorb the custard fully, ensuring every bite is creamy and rich.

Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips or Bananas

Optional add-ins like chocolate chips create melted pockets of chocolate in the pudding, while slices of banana add natural sweetness and moisture for a chocolate banana bread pudding variation. Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the custard-soaked bread or gently fold in banana slices.

Step 5: Bake the Bread Pudding

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is slightly firm to the touch. The edges should turn lightly golden, while the center remains soft. To avoid overbaking, check after 30 minutes; the pudding should jiggle slightly in the middle but not appear liquid.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove the bread pudding from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes. This allows the custard to set further and makes slicing easier. Serve warm, optionally with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

Easy Variations to Try

Chocolate Banana Bread Pudding: Fold in sliced bananas for natural sweetness and added moisture.
Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding: Sprinkle chocolate chips throughout the bread for extra melted chocolate pockets.
Coconut Bread Pudding: Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical twist, inspired by coconut pie flavors.
Extra Chocolate Bread Version: Use chocolate bread instead of white or brioche for richer flavor.

Each variation keeps the recipe simple while adding new flavors to enjoy.

Helpful Tips for the Best Results

Use slightly stale bread for best custard absorption.
Warm milk helps blend the chocolate custard smoothly.
Cover loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly.
Allow the pudding to sit for a few minutes before serving to enhance texture.
Experiment with add-ins like nuts, coconut, or dried fruits for variety.

These tips ensure every batch comes out soft, creamy, and chocolatey.

Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips

Store any leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to retain the creamy texture. You can also freeze unbaked custard-soaked bread and bake fresh when needed. Filled or topped versions can be thawed at room temperature before serving.

Serving Ideas and Toppings

This bread pudding tastes incredible served warm. Top with:

A scoop of vanilla ice cream for contrast
Whipped cream for lightness
Chocolate sauce drizzle for extra indulgence
Fresh fruit like raspberries or strawberries for color and tang

These additions elevate a simple dessert into a dessert-worthy presentation.

When to Make Chocolate Bread Pudding

This dessert is perfect for:

Family dinners or weekend baking
Using leftover bread in a delicious way
Comfort food cravings on a chilly day
Special occasions or casual gatherings

It’s also one of those fun easy things to cook when you want a cozy treat without complicated steps.

Common Questions About Easy Chocolate Bread Pudding

Can I use fresh bread? Yes, just allow it to dry slightly so it absorbs the custard better.
Can I make it less sweet? Reduce sugar slightly; the chocolate flavor will still shine.
How do I know it’s fully baked? The edges should be set and lightly golden. The center should jiggle slightly but not appear liquid.

More Easy Dessert Recipes to Try

If you love this recipe, explore:

Classic easy bread pudding recipe
Creamy chocolate custard desserts
Fun twists with chocolate chip bread pudding
Comforting treats using chocolate bread

👉 Check the homepage for more food recipes and easy dessert ideas.

Final Thoughts

This easy chocolate bread pudding is a comforting, indulgent dessert that anyone can make at home. Its soft, custardy interior and rich chocolate flavor make it a dessert everyone will love. With simple ingredients, step-by-step guidance, and a few helpful tips, you can create a dessert that feels luxurious but is completely approachable.

Take your time, enjoy the process, and share this cozy treat with family and friends. Don’t forget to explore more delicious recipes on the homepage for your next baking adventure.