Ultimate Chocolate Bread Pudding Recipe: How to Make It

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon plus 1/2 cup butter, divided
• 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 pound egg bread or challah, cubed
• SAUCE:
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans, toasted
• 1/4 cup flaked coconut, toasted
• 2 to 3 teaspoons brandy, optional
• SWEETENED WHIPPED CREAM:
• 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons confectioners' sugar
• 1 to 2 tablespoons brandy, optional