Name: Chocolate Orange Bread & Butter Pudding Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 300 g (10.5 oz) white bloomer-style bread; 3 tbsp unsalted butter; 100 g (3/4 cup) candied peel chunks; 100 g (2/3 cup) sultanas; 240 ml (1 cup) full-fat milk; 300 ml (1 1/4 cups) double (heavy) cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 4 egg yolks; 100 g (1/2 cup) light brown sugar; 2 tbsp cornflour (cornstarch); 1 tsp Valencian orange extract; 150 g (5.3 oz) dark chocolate (roughly chopped); 80 g (1/2 cup) chocolate chips (milk or dark chocolate, milk used here); 1 orange (sliced into half-moons); 1 tsp confectioners’ sugar (sifted)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 88 reviews

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, indulgent dessert that combines zesty citrus with rich, velvety chocolate, then this Chocolate Orange Bread & Butter Pudding Recipe is about to become your new favorite treat. It takes the classic British bread and butter pudding to a whole new level with luscious dark chocolate, a hint of Valencian orange extract, and bursts of candied peel and sultanas that create an irresistible medley of textures and flavors. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this pudding offers a warm slice of happiness that’s both nostalgic and excitingly fresh.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white bowl in the center filled with white flour and some powder on top. Around this bowl are five small white bowls arranged in a loose circle. One bowl contains light brown sugar chunks, another has a thick brown liquid, a third is filled with white granulated sugar, a fourth contains bright yellow melted butter, and the last holds an egg yolk with a clear egg white surrounding it. The scene is set on a white marbled surface, giving a clean and bright look. A woman's hand is not shown but implied by the careful arrangement of the bowls. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in crafting that perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and chocolaty delight. From the thick slices of white bloomer bread that soak up the custard, to the tang of orange extract that enlivens every bite, these essentials are simple but crucial for a memorable pudding.

300 g white bloomer-style bread: Thick slices provide the ideal base to absorb the custard while staying tender.
3 tbsp unsalted butter: Spreading butter onto the bread ensures richness and a golden crust.
100 g candied peel chunks: Adds bursts of sweet, chewy citrus flavor.
100 g sultanas: These plump dried grapes bring juicy sweetness and a lovely texture.
240 ml full-fat milk: The creamy custard starts here, giving moisture and body.
300 ml double (heavy) cream: Boosts richness, making the pudding decadently smooth.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and aromatic sweetness to the custard.
4 egg yolks: Essential for thickening the custard to a silky finish.
100 g light brown sugar: Provides subtle caramel notes and soft sweetness.
2 tbsp cornflour: Helps stabilize the custard’s thickness for perfect slicing.
1 tsp Valencian orange extract: Delivers a bright, authentic orange flavor.
150 g dark chocolate (roughly chopped): Adds deep chocolate intensity to the custard.
80 g chocolate chips: These melt on top creating delightful gooey pockets.
1 orange (sliced into half-moons): For a fresh fruity garnish and tangy contrast.
1 tsp confectioners’ sugar (sifted): A light dusting to finish with elegance and sweetness.

How to Make Chocolate Orange Bread & Butter Pudding Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Base

Begin by greasing a large casserole dish, ideally oval and around 28cm by 25cm, to make sure your pudding won’t stick. Slice your white bloomer bread into thick 2.5cm (1 inch) slices and spread each slice generously with unsalted butter—this is key to that rich flavor and crisp edges. Then, cut these slices into chunks that fit nicely into your dish. Arrange the buttered bread chunks evenly, sprinkle the candied peel and sultanas all over, and set aside while you work on the custard.

Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture

Heat the milk, cream, and vanilla extract gently in a pan until just below boiling—this warm custard base will soak into the bread. In a jug, whisk together the egg yolks, brown sugar, and cornflour for that silky texture we love. Slowly temper the egg mixture with the warm milk by adding a splash at a time and whisking continuously; this step is crucial to avoid scrambled eggs. Once combined, pour everything back into the pan and cook on medium heat while whisking until thickened to a smooth, creamy consistency.

Step 3: Incorporate Flavor and Chocolate

Turn off the heat, then stir in the Valencian orange extract for that unmistakable citrus zing. Immediately add the roughly chopped dark chocolate and stir until it fully melts into the custard, creating a luscious chocolatey mixture. Pour this heavenly sauce over the bread chunks and mix gently to ensure every bite is coated, allowing the bread to soak in all that flavor during the next resting period.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Allow the mixture to sit for 30 minutes—this resting time helps the bread absorb the custard deeply. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 175C (350F, fan). Just before baking, sprinkle the chocolate chips across the top so they melt enticingly into the custard as it bakes. Place the dish in the oven for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges turn crisp and golden while the interior remains gorgeously soft and bubbling.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, arrange fresh orange slices on top for a vibrant citrus note and finish with a light sift of confectioners’ sugar to add a delicate sweetness and pretty presentation. This pudding is divine served warm on its own or with creamy vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

How to Serve Chocolate Orange Bread & Butter Pudding Recipe

The image shows a white round dish filled with dark brown baked bread pudding that has a rough, uneven top layer with many textures from the baked bread chunks and melted chocolate chips scattered on top. Light brown chocolate chips are spread across the upper surface, mingled in with the dark bread layers. There is a soft dusting of white powdered sugar adding a frosty look all over the top. Several bright orange slices with shiny pulp are placed on one side, adding a fresh pop of color. A silver spoon rests inside the dish on the right side, digging into the pudding, with some sticky melted chocolate and bread on it. The dish sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The pudding is beautiful with a simple topping of orange half-moons and a dusting of confectioners’ sugar, which adds brightness and a hint of sweetness right on the surface. If you want a bit more, a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of orange-infused chocolate sauce can elevate the experience even further.

Side Dishes

This dessert stands well on its own, but a scoop of vanilla or orange-scented ice cream complements it wonderfully. For something lighter, try a fresh fruit salad with berries or citrus segments, which adds freshness to balance the pudding’s richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in pretty ramekins for an elegant touch, layering the bread and custard carefully for a refined look. Another fun idea is to add a sprinkle of toasted almonds or a few candied orange peels on top for texture and decorative appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover any leftover pudding with cling film or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 days, and the flavors often deepen overnight, making the next day’s slice even better.

Freezing

You can freeze your leftover Chocolate Orange Bread & Butter Pudding Recipe by wrapping it tightly and placing it in a freezer-safe dish or container. Freeze for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Warm slices of this pudding in the oven at 160C (320F) covered loosely with foil to prevent drying, or microwave gently in short bursts until heated through. Avoid overheating to keep the custard creamy and chocolate smooth.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread for this pudding?

Yes, though white bloomer bread is ideal for its absorbency and texture, you can use brioche or challah for an even richer pudding; just make sure the bread is fresh or slightly stale.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute dairy milk and cream with coconut milk or almond cream, and use dairy-free butter alternatives to keep all the deliciousness with a dairy-free twist.

Can I prepare the pudding the day before baking?

Definitely, assembling the pudding in advance and allowing it to soak overnight will deepen the flavors. Just keep it covered in the fridge and bake fresh when ready.

What chocolate works best in this recipe?

We recommend good quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa for a deep, rich flavor, but feel free to experiment with milk chocolate if you prefer something sweeter.

Is the orange extract necessary?

While you can omit it, the Valencian orange extract intensifies the citrus aroma and flavor, making the pudding truly special and vibrant.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Chocolate Orange Bread & Butter Pudding Recipe, you’ll see why it’s such a beloved classic with a delightful twist. The combination of zesty orange and luxurious chocolate wrapped in creamy custard is the perfect cozy dessert to share and savor. Don’t hesitate to make a batch for your next gathering—you’re guaranteed compliments and smiles all around!