Scripps College Double Chocolate Bread Pudding: A Taste of Nostalgia

My first taste of this bread pudding was a revelation. It wasn’t some dry, forgotten dessert lurking in the dining hall – it was a warm, gooey, chocolate-laden dream. Scripps College, my alma mater, held many treasures, but this bread pudding stands out as a truly special memory. The rich combination of bittersweet and white chocolate, melting into the custardy bread, was pure comfort food. Every bite was a welcome escape from late-night study sessions and the pressures of college life. I feel so lucky that the college released the recipe; it allows me to recreate that same magic in my own kitchen.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes to 12 hours 15 minutes (including soaking time)
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours to 13 hours (including soaking time)
• Servings: 8
• Yield: 1 baking pan
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 10 cups bread (chopped or broken in 1 inch cubes) – Challah works beautifully, but any sturdy bread will do.
• 4 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
• 4 ounces white chocolate, chopped
• 3 large eggs
• ¼ cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups whipping cream
• ½ cup milk

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Well-greased baking pan (9×13 inch recommended)

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the bread and chocolate. In a large bowl, combine the chopped bread, bittersweet chocolate, and white chocolate. Make sure the chocolate is evenly distributed throughout the bread. This ensures that every bite is packed with chocolaty goodness.

2. In a separate, medium-sized bowl, whisk together the eggs until they are well beaten and slightly frothy. This will help create a smooth and creamy custard.

3. Add the ¼ cup sugar and the vanilla extract to the egg mixture. Whisk again until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.

4. Pour in 1 cup of the whipping cream and the milk into the egg mixture. Whisk until all the ingredients are thoroughly blended. This custard base is the key to the bread pudding’s delightful texture.

5. Pour the custard mixture over the bread and chocolate mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss to ensure that all the bread is evenly coated with the liquid.

6. Now comes the crucial step: soaking. Let the mixture stand for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight. The longer the mixture soaks, the creamier the bread pudding will be. The bread needs ample time to absorb the custard, resulting in a moist and decadent final product. If soaking overnight, cover the bowl and refrigerate.

7. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).

8. Pour the soaked bread pudding mixture into a well-greased baking pan. This will prevent the bread pudding from sticking and ensure easy removal after baking.

9. Pour the remaining ½ cup whipping cream evenly over the top of the bread pudding mixture. This final layer of cream adds extra richness and helps create a beautifully browned top.

10. Sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of sugar evenly over the cream. The sugar will caramelize during baking, adding a delightful sweetness and a slightly crispy texture.

11. Bake for 45 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is lightly browned and bubbly. To check for doneness, insert a knife into the center of the bread pudding. If the knife comes out clean, or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it, the bread pudding is ready.

12. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Bread Choice: Experiment with different types of bread for unique flavors and textures. Challah, brioche, or even croissants can add a delicious twist.
• Chocolate Intensity: Adjust the ratio of bittersweet to white chocolate to suit your personal preference. For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate with a higher cacao percentage.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the custard mixture for a warm and inviting flavor.
• Prevent Soggy Bottom: Ensure your baking pan is well-greased to prevent the bread pudding from sticking and becoming soggy.
• Doneness Check: If the top is browning too quickly, loosely tent the bread pudding with aluminum foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Scripps College Double Chocolate Bread Pudding warm, either on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of cocoa powder can also enhance the presentation.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions for 30-60 seconds, or bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) until warmed through. For longer storage, you can freeze the bread pudding for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	442 kcal	N/A
Total Fat	25.2g	38%
Saturated Fat	14.4g	71%
Cholesterol	136mg	45%
Sodium	351.4mg	14%
Total Carbohydrate	45.3g	15%
Dietary Fiber	1.4g	5%
Sugars	17.2g	N/A
Protein	8.9g	17%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Dairy-Free: Substitute the whipping cream and milk with coconut cream and almond milk for a dairy-free version.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Nutty Addition: Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the bread mixture for added texture and flavor.
• Fruit Infusion: Incorporate fresh or dried fruits, such as berries, cherries, or raisins, into the bread pudding for a fruity twist.
• Boozy Bread Pudding: Add a tablespoon or two of your favorite liqueur, such as rum or bourbon, to the custard mixture for an extra layer of flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use day-old bread for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Day-old bread is ideal for bread pudding, as it absorbs the custard better than fresh bread.

Q: How do I prevent the bread pudding from becoming too dry?
A: Make sure the bread is thoroughly soaked in the custard mixture and that you don’t overbake the bread pudding.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the bread pudding up to the baking stage and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Q: What if I don’t have whipping cream? Can I use milk instead?
A: While whipping cream is recommended for its richness, you can substitute it with whole milk. However, the bread pudding might not be as creamy.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze leftover bread pudding for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Final Thoughts

This Scripps College Double Chocolate Bread Pudding is more than just a dessert; it’s a nostalgic journey back to cherished memories and simple pleasures. Whether you’re a college student seeking a comforting treat or a seasoned baker looking for a new favorite recipe, this bread pudding is sure to delight. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations and substitutions to make it your own. And most importantly, share it with friends and family to create new memories that will last a lifetime. I hope you enjoy this delicious taste of Scripps as much as I do!