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Decadent Valentines Bread Pudding Recipe with Chocolate and Berries Perfect for Date Night

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A rich and comforting bread pudding featuring melted dark chocolate and fresh berries, perfect for a cozy and romantic date night.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups day-old brioche or challah bread, cubed (about 200g / 7 oz)
  • 2 cups whole milk (480ml / 2 cups)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (240ml / 1 cup)
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150g / 5.3 oz)
  • 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 pinch of salt (optional)
  • 1 cup dark chocolate chunks or chips (170g / 6 oz)
  • 1 cup mixed fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
  • Optional: 2 tbsp powdered sugar for dusting
  • Optional extras:
  • 1 tbsp orange zest
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. (5 minutes)
  2. Cut your day-old brioche into roughly 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes. The bread should be slightly stale to soak up the custard without turning mushy. (5 minutes)
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 2 cups whole milk (480ml), 1 cup heavy cream (240ml), 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150g), 2 tsp vanilla extract, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt if using. Whisk until fully combined and slightly frothy. (5 minutes)
  4. Place the bread cubes in the prepared baking dish. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, pressing down gently with a spatula to help the bread soak up the custard. Let it sit for 15 minutes to absorb. (15 minutes)
  5. Sprinkle the dark chocolate chunks evenly over the soaked bread, then scatter the fresh berries on top. If you’re using orange zest, sprinkle it over now for an extra zing. (5 minutes)
  6. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown. The edges should puff slightly and the center should feel firm but still have a slight jiggle. (40-45 minutes)
  7. Remove the bread pudding from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar if desired for a pretty finish. (10 minutes)

Notes

Use day-old bread for best texture; fresh bread can become soggy. If top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil halfway through baking. Let pudding rest 10 minutes after baking for easier slicing and better flavor. Can be made vegan by substituting dairy and eggs with plant-based alternatives. Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free bread.

Nutrition

Keywords: bread pudding, chocolate, berries, dessert, Valentine's Day, date night, easy dessert, comfort food

Find it online: https://hungermind.com/decadent-valentines-bread-pudding-recipe-with-chocolate-and-berries-perfect-for-date-night/