Croissant Bread Pudding with Chocolate Sauce

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Butter a 13x9 inch baking dish.

Step 2

Cut the croissants into thirds using a serrated knife. Arrange the croissants in the bottom of the pan in an even layer (this doesn’t have to be perfect).

Step 3

In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat together the butter and sugar. Add the vanilla extract and mix again. Add eggs and beat until incorporated. Pour in the milk and heavy cream. Beat until combined.

Step 4

Pour the mixture over the croissants; press them down into the custard mixture to ensure every piece is covered and soaked with the custard. Allow the mixture to stand for at least 30 minutes, or overnight.

Step 5

Cover the pan with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Uncover the dish and then bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until well puffed with a set center. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.

Step 6

Combine the chips and evaporated milk in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat the mixture at 100% power in 1 minute intervals until the mixture bubbles (about 2 minutes, more or less, depending on the wattage of your microwave). Let stand 1 minute; whisk well until combined. Stir in the butter and whisk until melted and incorporated.

Step 7

Serve chocolate sauce in a small pitcher or gravy boat alongside the bread pudding. Or, drizzle chocolate sauce over bread pudding and top with chopped berries. Serve warm.