Decadent Italian Chocolate and Amaretto Bread Pudding

Ingredients

• 1 loaf stale Italian bread, cut into cubes
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons amaretto liqueur
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips
• 4 units large eggs, beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup sliced almonds, toasted
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, for dusting

Method

1. 01
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. 02
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk, cream, and sugar, whisking until the sugar is dissolved.
3. 03
   Stir in the amaretto, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until fully incorporated.
4. 04
   Add the bread cubes and chocolate chips to the liquid mixture, ensuring the bread is fully soaked.
5. 05
   Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
6. 06
   Sprinkle the toasted almonds over the top of the bread pudding.
7. 07
   Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the top is golden brown.
8. 08
   Allow the pudding to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.
9. 09
   Serve warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.