If you are craving a comforting dessert that dances beautifully between rich chocolate and fresh fruit flavors, you have to try this Chocolate and Berry Bread Pudding Recipe. It’s a perfect combination of fluffy brioche soaked in a luscious custard, bursting with juicy blueberries and raspberries, and studded with melty chocolate chips. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or an impressive weekend treat, this dish blends simple ingredients into a spectacularly delicious experience that feels both indulgent and wholesome.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things straightforward but relies on each element to bring a unique texture, sweetness, and vibrancy. From the buttery brioche that provides a tender base to the fresh berries that add pops of color and tartness, every ingredient plays a vital role in this memorable bread pudding.
- Brioche bread (12 oz): Choose soft, fresh brioche for that rich, buttery foundation that soaks up the custard perfectly.
- Blueberries (1 cup): These add a subtle sweetness and juicy burst in every bite.
- Raspberries (1 cup): For a tangy contrast that brightens the pudding’s flavor profile.
- Chocolate chips (1/2 cup): Use semi-sweet or dark for gooey pockets of chocolate throughout.
- Eggs, beaten (3 large): Essential for creating the silky custard that binds the bread and fruit.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds a warm aromatic note that enhances the chocolate’s richness.
- Sugar (1/4 cup): Just enough sweetness to balance the tart berries without overpowering.
- Whipping cream (1/2 cup): Contributes to the creamy texture and luxurious mouthfeel.
- Whole milk (2 1/2 cups): Lightens the custard while keeping it creamy.
How to Make Chocolate and Berry Bread Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Bread
Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and positioning the rack in the center. While it preheats, cut the brioche into generous 2-inch cubes. The size helps the bread soak up just the right amount of custard without turning mushy. Spread these cubes evenly in a 13×9 baking dish to create a perfect base layer.
Step 2: Add the Berries
Scatter the fresh blueberries and raspberries across the bread cubes. Distributing them evenly ensures every scoop has a lovely balance of sweet and tart fruit, making each bite exciting and tasty.
Step 3: Prepare the Custard Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, whipping cream, vanilla extract, sugar, and whole milk until fully combined. This custard will infuse the bread with a creamy richness and carry the flavors harmoniously.
Step 4: Soak the Bread
Pour the custard gently over the brioche and berries in the baking dish, giving it time to soak—about 30 minutes works perfectly. This step is crucial because the bread absorbs the custard, resulting in that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that defines great bread pudding.
Step 5: Add Chocolate and Bake
Once the bread has soaked adequately, sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the top. Bake for 35 minutes at 350°F until the custard is set and the top is golden with a slight crisp. The chocolate will melt and create delightful pockets of richness throughout the pudding.
How to Serve Chocolate and Berry Bread Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Chocolate and Berry Bread Pudding Recipe, top it with a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of berry coulis. Fresh mint leaves also make a beautiful and refreshing garnish that complements the berries nicely.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of crème fraîche to add creaminess. For brunch, consider serving it alongside crispy bacon or a light salad to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, bake individual portions in ramekins or mini cast iron skillets. Layer the berries and chocolate chips inside for a visually stunning surprise. You can also top with toasted nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra warmth and texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Chocolate and Berry Bread Pudding Recipe, simply cover leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the pudding moist and allows the flavors to deepen.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this bread pudding freezes beautifully. Wrap cooled portions individually in plastic wrap and then foil, placing them in a freezer-safe container. They will keep well for up to one month.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then warm gently in the oven at 325°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving when possible to retain the pudding’s lovely texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! Brioche is ideal for its richness, but challah or even a sturdy white bread can work well. Just make sure it’s slightly stale for better custard absorption.
What if I don’t have raspberries or blueberries?
You can substitute with strawberries, blackberries, or even frozen berries if fresh aren’t available, adjusting the quantity to keep the balance.
Is there a way to make this dairy-free?
Yes, swap the whipping cream and whole milk for your favorite plant-based alternatives like coconut cream and almond milk, though the custard might be a bit lighter in texture.
Can I prepare this the night before baking?
Definitely! In fact, letting the bread soak overnight in the custard creates an even more flavorful and tender pudding. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
What type of chocolate works best?
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips provide the best contrast to the brightness of the berries, but you can also experiment with white chocolate for a sweeter twist.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and exciting about this Chocolate and Berry Bread Pudding Recipe that keeps me coming back. It’s the perfect way to bring a little magic to simple ingredients, turning them into a luscious, satisfying treat everyone will love. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do!
Print
Chocolate and Berry Bread Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This decadent Bread Pudding recipe combines soft brioche bread with fresh blueberries and raspberries, enhanced by a rich custard mixture and studded with chocolate chips for a delightful dessert or brunch dish. Baked to golden perfection, this comforting pudding offers a perfect balance of fruity freshness and chocolatey indulgence.
Ingredients
Bread and Fruit
- 12 oz brioche bread (cut into 2-inch cubes)
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1 cup raspberries
Custard Mixture
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup whipping cream
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
Topping
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and position a rack in the center. Cut the brioche into 2-inch cubes and spread them evenly across a 13×9-inch baking dish.
- Add Berries: Evenly sprinkle the blueberries and raspberries throughout and between the brioche cubes, distributing the fruit for balanced flavor.
- Make Custard Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, vanilla extract, sugar, whipping cream, and whole milk until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the brioche and berries, allowing the bread to soak up the liquid by letting it sit for 30 minutes before baking.
- Add Chocolate Chips and Bake: Sprinkle the chocolate chips on top of the soaked bread mixture. Place the dish in the oven and bake at 350°F for 35 minutes or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
Notes
- Allowing the bread to soak for 30 minutes ensures it absorbs the custard fully for a creamy texture.
- Brioche is preferred for its buttery, rich texture but other soft white breads can be used.
- Adjust the sugar to taste, especially if your berries are very sweet or tart.
- Serve warm for the best flavor, optionally with a drizzle of cream or ice cream.
- Can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
