Sweets for the Sweet
I was lucky in love, managing to fall in love with the man who has turned into my best and dearest friend. The day-to-day "stuff" of work, kids, family, friends, obligations and household sometimes makes it hard to remember to pull close, exchange real words, and simply be thankful that we're in this together.
That's what Valentine's Day is about, for me. Forget cards, flowers and candy--time for a smile suits us just fine.
Oh, and Chocolate and Brandy Bread Pudding is pretty damn nice, too.
Anna's Amazing Chocolate Brandy Bread Pudding
(Make the day before serving)
1 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted
2 1/4 cups half and half
1/3 cup brandy, or liquor of your choice
2 cups chocolate chips, divided in half
1/2 cup dark brown sugar, packed
2 tsp. cinnamon, divided
4 large eggs, beaten
1 tsp. vanilla
pinch of salt
8 thick slices crustless, good-quality country white bread cut in 1/2 inch cubes (NOTE: about one loaf french bread, or 1/2 a large challah)
2 cups chilled heavy whipping cream
2 Tbsp. sugar
Brush sides and bottom of 8x8 Pyrex dish with melted butter.
Simmer half and half and brandy in a large heavy sauce pan for 5 minutes. Don't let it boil, and stir frequebtly.
Remove from heat and add 1 cup of chocolate chips. Let stand for 1 minute.
Whisk until chocolate chips are melted and the mixture is smooth.
Whisk in brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon.
Let stand 20 minutes until cool.
Whisk in eggs, vanilla, and salt.
Stir in bread gently. Let stand for 30 minutes.
Spread 1/2 half of mixture ( about 2 1/2 cups) into prepared Pyrex.
Sprinkle remaining cup of chocolate chips over bottom half of bread pudding mixture. Cover with remaining bread pudding mixture.
Cover and chill at least 8 hours, or overnight
Can be made 1 day ahead!
Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Bake until puffed and firm in the center. About 45 minutes
Remove from oven and let cool 10 minutes
Beat chilled heavy cream with 2 Tablespoons of sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon to top Individual servings of pudding. Sprinkle portions with remaining cinnamon.