Orange Chocolate Bread Pudding

1. 1

   Using about 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, butter the inside bottom & sides of a 3-quart baking dish.

2. 2

   Spread half the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish, then, if using the raisins, sprinkle them over the top of the bread cubes.

3. 3

   Spread the rest of the bread cubes evenly over the raisins, then set aside.

4. 4

   In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, sugar & chocolate, then cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes or until chocolate is melted, whisking or stirring frequently.

5. 5

   When chocolate is melted, remove from heat.

6. 6

   In a large bowl, combine eggs, orange zest, vanilla extract & salt, then gradually whisk the chocolate mixture into this egg mixture.

7. 7

   Pour mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing down lightly to make sure the bread is completely moistened.

8. 8

   Cover loosely with foil, & set aside while oven is heating.

9. 9

   Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F, then bake, covered, for 25 minutes, then uncover & bake another 30 minutes or until the bread is nicely browned, evenly puffed & set.

10. 10

    Remove from the oven & cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before serving.

No additional tips available.