Chocolate Bread Pudding Skillet Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug, look no further than this Chocolate Bread Pudding Skillet. It’s soft on the inside with just the right touch of crispiness on top, and bursting with rich, melty chocolate flavor that will delight everyone at the table. Whether you want a quick weeknight treat or a cozy weekend indulgence, this Chocolate Bread Pudding Skillet delivers comfort and decadence all in one beautiful skillet. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll want to make it again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple, letting each ingredient shine and work together to create that perfect chocolate bread pudding texture and flavor. Every item is essential, from the milk lending creaminess to the chocolate chips adding irresistible bursts of sweetness.

• Bread cubes: Use slightly stale bread for better absorption and texture—day-old bread works brilliantly.
• Milk: Provides moisture and creaminess, soaking into the bread for that tender bite.
• Eggs: Act as the binding agent, helping the pudding set in the skillet perfectly.
• Sugar: Sweetens the entire dish and helps develop that tempting caramelized crust on top.
• Chocolate chips: Melt into gooey pockets of rich chocolate throughout, making every bite heavenly.
• Butter: Used for greasing the skillet and adds a slight richness that rounds out the flavor.

How to Make Chocolate Bread Pudding Skillet

Step 1: Mix the Custard Base

Start by whisking together the milk, eggs, and sugar until the sugar fully dissolves and the mixture is smooth. This custard is the heart of the Chocolate Bread Pudding Skillet and will soak into the bread cubes, infusing them with sweet creaminess.

Step 2: Combine Bread and Chocolate

Gently fold the bread cubes and chocolate chips into the custard mixture, making sure every piece gets coated beautifully. The bread will absorb the rich custard, and the chocolate chips will nestle into the nooks and crannies, ready to melt into luscious pockets of flavor.

Step 3: Prepare Your Skillet

Heat the butter in your skillet over medium heat until melted and foamy. This not only prevents sticking but also gives the pudding an incredibly rich flavor and helps create the slightly crisp top layer that we all love about this dessert.

Step 4: Cook Until Set

Pour the bread pudding mixture into the warmed, buttered skillet. Let it cook gently over medium-low heat until the custard is fully set and the edges start turning a beautiful golden brown. This usually takes around 20 minutes. You’ll notice a tender, moist interior and a satisfyingly crisp surface when it’s ready.

How to Serve Chocolate Bread Pudding Skillet

Garnishes

Serving this dessert warm is the way to go for the best texture and ultimate comfort. For an extra-special touch, dust the top with powdered sugar to add a festive look and subtle sweetness that enhances the chocolate’s richness.

Side Dishes

While this Chocolate Bread Pudding Skillet shines perfectly on its own, pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream brings a fantastic contrast of cold creaminess to the warm, gooey pudding. Fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce also add lovely brightness and depth.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be shy to get creative! Try adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before serving to add layers of texture and flavor. You can even drizzle melted chocolate over each serving for an extra chocolate extravaganza that will wow your friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which is rare because this dish disappears fast), cover the skillet tightly or transfer the pudding to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days without losing its delightful richness.

Freezing

You can freeze the Chocolate Bread Pudding Skillet by portioning it into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, pop individual portions in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds, or warm the skillet gently on the stovetop over low heat. The warm pudding will regain its softness with a slight crisp on top, just like freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use any type of bread for the pudding?

Absolutely! Stale white or brioche bread works wonderfully. Avoid super dense breads like rye or whole grain as they may alter the texture and soaking ability.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the milk with your favorite plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative. The dessert will still be deliciously rich.

How do I make sure the pudding doesn’t get soggy?

Using slightly stale bread helps it absorb just the right amount of custard without becoming mushy. Also, cooking in the skillet to form a crispy top balances the texture beautifully.

Can I prepare the pudding in advance?

Yes! You can assemble the mixture, cover, and refrigerate it for a few hours before cooking. This lets the flavors meld and makes the baking process super quick when you’re ready.

What kind of chocolate chips are best for this recipe?

Semisweet chocolate chips work best to balance the sweetness, but feel free to experiment with dark or milk chocolate depending on your preference.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Bread Pudding Skillet is truly one of those magical desserts that feel both timeless and special. Its simple ingredients and straightforward steps come together to create something incredibly comforting and delightful. I hope you give it a try soon and enjoy every warm, chocolatey bite as much as I do. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that leaves you wanting more!