Decadent Chocolate Croissant Bread Pudding: A Dessert to Savor
What could be better than warm, melted chocolate flecked throughout flaky, buttery croissants? This Chocolate Croissant Bread Pudding is a dessert that’s not only irresistible but also incredibly easy to make, thanks to your slow cooker. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving something sweet, this bread pudding is a surefire hit. Serve it with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you’ll find yourself making it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 large croissants, preferably a day old
- 4 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 6 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Begin by spraying the inside of your slow cooker pot with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Assemble the Pudding: Tear the croissants into bite-sized pieces and place them into the slow cooker. Sprinkle half of the chopped chocolate over the croissants.
3. Melt the Chocolate and Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl or a small saucepan, melt the butter with the remaining chocolate. Once melted, allow it to cool completely.
4. Make the Custard: In a separate mixing bowl, beat together the eggs, heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract. Slowly add the cooled melted chocolate mixture to the custard, whisking until fully combined.
5. Combine and Cook: Pour the custard mixture over the croissants in the slow cooker, ensuring all pieces are well soaked. Gently press down on the croissants to help them absorb the custard.
6. Cook the Pudding: Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for about 3 hours, or until the bread pudding is puffed and set. The top should be golden and slightly crispy.
7. Cool and Serve: Once cooked, remove the lid and allow the pudding to cool for about 20 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the pudding to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
Serving Suggestions:
- For a decadent touch: Top each serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Add some freshness: Serve with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries to balance the richness of the pudding.
Final Tips:
- Day-old croissants work best for this recipe as they better absorb the custard.
- Be sure to cool the melted chocolate before adding it to the eggs, as hot chocolate may cook the eggs prematurely.
- Pressing down on the croissants ensures even absorption of the custard, leading to a moist and flavorful pudding.
Conclusion
This Chocolate Croissant Bread Pudding combines the buttery richness of croissants with the decadent flavor of semisweet chocolate, creating a dessert that’s both comforting and luxurious. The slow cooker takes the hassle out of baking, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet treat with minimal effort. One bite, and you’ll be hooked!
