Warm, rich, and decadently spiced, this Sweet Heat Chocolate Bread Pudding delivers big flavor in every bite. Made with buttery brioche bread, bittersweet chocolate, and our signature Sweet Heat Mesquite Sugar, this dessert balances creamy sweetness with a bold kick of smoky heat. Whether baked in the oven or slow-cooked in a crock pot, it's a comfort food classic turned gourmet showstopper.
Sweet Heat Chocolate Bread Pudding
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf (1 lb) brioche, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 8 cups)
- 3 cups heavy (whipping) cream
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup Sweet Heat Mesquite Sugar
- ½ cup sugar
- 8 oz bittersweet chocolate chips
- 4 large eggs
- 2 large egg yolks
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Butter (for greasing the skillet or baking dish)
- Optional: Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving
Oven-Baked Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter a baking dish or skillet.
- In a heavy saucepan, combine cream, milk, 1 tsp vanilla, Sweet Heat Mesquite Sugar, and regular sugar. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, whisking to dissolve sugar. Remove from heat.
- Whisk in half the chocolate until melted (return to low heat briefly if needed).
- In a large heatproof bowl, whisk eggs, egg yolks, and remaining 1 tsp vanilla. Slowly pour in the hot cream mixture, whisking continuously to temper the eggs.
- Fold in the brioche cubes until mostly soaked. Let sit briefly for absorption.
- Spoon mixture into the prepared dish. Sprinkle with remaining chocolate, pressing slightly into the top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the pudding is golden and set.
Crock Pot Instructions:
- Lightly grease a medium-sized slow cooker.
- Place cubed bread inside.
- Follow steps 2–4 from the oven method above to make the custard.
- Pour over bread, gently pressing to ensure full coverage.
- Cover the crock pot with a thin cotton towel before placing the lid on top to absorb excess moisture.
- Cook on LOW for 3–3½ hours or until firm and cooked through.
Why Use Sweet Heat Mesquite Sugar?
Our Sweet Heat Mesquite Sugar combines sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors to elevate traditional recipes. It brings warmth and complexity to this bread pudding without overpowering the chocolate or vanilla. It’s the perfect gourmet sugar for bold desserts, barbecue glazes, and even spiced cocktails.
Serving Suggestions:
- Top with vanilla bean ice cream or freshly whipped cream.
- Dust with extra Sweet Heat Sugar for extra sparkle and flavor.
- Serve warm with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel.
This Sweet Heat Chocolate Bread Pudding is bold, rich, and perfect for cold nights, special occasions, or whenever you're craving a little heat with your sweetness.
Looking for more spicy-sweet or chocolatey dessert recipes? Browse the Lesley Elizabeth Recipe Collection for more flavorful inspiration!