Introduction
Imagine a dessert that combines the rich, creamy flavor of cheesecake, the gooey decadence of chocolate, and the tart sweetness of cherries—all soaked into warm, custardy bread pudding. Sounds heavenly, right? That’s exactly what you get with Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bread Pudding. This delightful dish is the perfect way to elevate a simple bread pudding into an unforgettable dessert experience. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests at a dinner party or just want to treat yourself to something special, this bread pudding is sure to satisfy.
The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make! By using a few simple ingredients and following straightforward steps, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes gourmet. The combination of chocolate and cherries is a classic, and when you add in the creamy texture of cheesecake and the comforting, custardy bread pudding, it’s pure magic. Plus, this dish is versatile enough to be enjoyed warm or cold, making it perfect for any season.
Enjoyment Suggestions
Perfect Pairings
To complement the rich flavors of Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bread Pudding, consider these pairings:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A dollop of vanilla ice cream melts over warm bread pudding, creating a wonderful contrast.
- Whipped Cream: Light, fluffy whipped cream balances the rich and dense texture of the pudding.
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a fresh and tangy note.
Serving Occasions
This versatile dessert is perfect for a variety of events. Here are a few ideas:
- Holiday Gatherings: Its festive flavors make it a hit at Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any holiday dinner.
- Family Dinners: End your family meal with this comforting and decadent dessert.
- Potlucks and Parties: Easy to transport and serve, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Complementary Dishes and Beverages
To enhance your dessert experience, serve Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bread Pudding with these complementary dishes and drinks:
- Espresso: The strong, bold flavor of espresso pairs well with the rich and sweet pudding.
- Red Wine: A glass of red wine, such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, enhances the chocolate and cherry flavors.
- Hot Chocolate: For an extra indulgent treat, enjoy a cup of rich, creamy hot chocolate alongside your dessert.
FAQs
1. Can I make this meal in advance? It is possible to make the Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bread Pudding in advance. To keep it warm, refrigerate it and reheat in the oven before serving.
2. What type of bread works best for this pudding? Day-old brioche, challah, or French bread are excellent choices because they are sturdy enough to hold up to the custard while still becoming wonderfully soft and creamy.
3. Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried or canned cherries? Yes, fresh cherries can be used, but they should be pitted and halved. You may also need to adjust the sugar content depending on the sweetness of the fresh cherries.
4. How long will the bread pudding last in the refrigerator? You may keep the bread pudding for up to five days in the refrigerator. You may reheat the whole meal in the oven or just individual servings in the microwave.
5. Can I freeze bread pudding? It is possible to freeze bread pudding. For up to three months, freeze it carefully wrapped in aluminum foil and plastic wrap. Before serving, reheat and let it thaw in the fridge for the whole night.
Print
Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bread Pudding
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bread Pudding is a decadent dessert that marries the rich flavors of chocolate, the tangy sweetness of cherries, and the creamy indulgence of cheesecake, all in one irresistible bread pudding. This comforting treat is perfect for special occasions or as a show-stopping finale to a dinner party. Easy to prepare and utterly delicious, it’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
For the bread pudding:
- 6 cups day-old brioche or challah bread, cubed
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the topping:
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips, melted (for drizzling)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Instructions
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Prepare the bread and cherries:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Spread the cubed bread evenly in the prepared baking dish. Scatter the cherries and chocolate chips over the bread cubes.
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Make the cream cheese mixture:
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Gradually mix in the milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and salt until well combined.
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Assemble the bread pudding:
- Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing down gently to ensure all the bread is soaked.
- Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
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Bake the bread pudding:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
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Add the topping:
- Drizzle the melted chocolate chips over the top of the bread pudding.
- Dust with powdered sugar, if desired, before serving.
Notes
- For an extra indulgent twist, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- This recipe can be prepared ahead of time. Simply assemble the bread pudding, cover, and refrigerate for up to 12 hours before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: chocolate cherry, cheesecake, bread pudding, easy dessert recipe, comfort food, holiday dessert, decadent treat, family dessert.
