How to turn vanilla pudding mix into chocolate pudding?

To transform vanilla pudding mix into chocolate pudding, simply whisk in ¼ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder with the dry mix before adding liquid. You can also melt in a small amount of dark or milk chocolate to deepen the flavor. This works great when serving a second pudding alongside white chocolate bread pudding for contrast.

Should bread pudding be refrigerated overnight before baking?

Yes. Refrigerating white chocolate bread pudding overnight allows the custard to fully soak into the bread. It also enhances the flavor and texture. Letting it sit in the fridge covered for 6–12 hours results in a creamier, more unified dessert when baked the next day.

Can you use milk instead of heavy cream for bread pudding?

Absolutely. If you're out of cream or want a lighter texture, whole milk or even 2% milk can substitute for heavy cream in white chocolate bread pudding. For best results, combine ¾ cup milk with ¼ cup melted butter to mimic cream's fat content and richness.

What bread makes the best bread pudding?

The best bread for white chocolate bread pudding is stale brioche, challah, or croissants. These breads are rich, slightly sweet, and absorb the custard well without turning soggy. Avoid thin-sliced sandwich breads or anything too crusty.

What is the ratio of eggs to milk for bread pudding?

A standard ratio is 1 large egg for every ½ cup of milk or cream. For a 9x13 baking dish, use 4–5 eggs with 2 to 2½ cups of dairy. This ensures a custard base that sets without becoming rubbery—ideal for silky white chocolate bread pudding.

Can I use evaporated milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, evaporated milk is a fantastic substitute in white chocolate bread pudding. It's creamy, shelf-stable, and slightly less fatty than heavy cream. Swap it 1:1 and consider adding an extra egg yolk for a richer texture.

Can adding vanilla extract to chocolate pudding enhance its flavor?

Definitely. A teaspoon of pure vanilla extract brings depth, balance, and warmth to chocolate pudding. It smooths out bitterness and enhances sweetness. Try this trick when layering chocolate pudding beneath white chocolate bread pudding or swirling it in.

How to make a simple chocolate pudding?

Whisk ½ cup sugar, ¼ cup cocoa powder, 3 tablespoons cornstarch, and 2¾ cups milk over medium heat until thickened. Add a pinch of salt and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract off-heat. Let cool before serving. This creamy dessert pairs beautifully with white chocolate bread pudding.

What happens when you add pudding to a cake mix?

Adding instant pudding mix to cake batter boosts moisture, richness, and density—mimicking the custardy texture of white chocolate bread pudding. It also enhances flavor and helps the cake stay fresh longer. Just add one box of pudding mix to your dry cake ingredients before baking.

White Chocolate Bread Pudding – Best Dessert Recipe 2025

Name: White Chocolate Bread Pudding – The Ultimate Creamy Dessert Guide
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 cups cubed brioche or challah; 1½ cups heavy cream; 1½ cups whole milk; 6 oz white chocolate, chopped; ¾ cup sugar; 4 large eggs; 2 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; Butter for greasing dish

Ingredients

Scale

6 cups cubed brioche or challah
1½ cups heavy cream
1½ cups whole milk
6 oz white chocolate, chopped
¾ cup sugar
4 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Butter for greasing dish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish.
Step 2: Heat cream and milk, then melt white chocolate in it.
Step 3: Whisk eggs, sugar, vanilla, and salt.
Step 4: Combine all, pour over bread cubes.
Step 5: Soak for 20 minutes or refrigerate overnight.
Step 6: Bake uncovered 40–45 minutes until golden.

Notes

Best served warm with a drizzle of cream or white chocolate sauce on top.

Author: Mike
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 420
Sugar: 25g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 130mg

Keywords: white chocolate bread pudding, dessert, baked pudding, American dessert