When it comes to desserts, few things can match the decadence and comfort of a well - made bread pudding. And today, we're going to explore a recipe that takes this classic dessert to a whole new level: the chocolate and walnut bread pudding topped with a warm Kahlua coffee sauce. This recipe is not only perfect for a lazy Sunday brunch but also a show - stopper at any party.

Let's start with the ingredients for the bread pudding itself. You'll need some day - old bread. The staler the bread, the better it will absorb the custard mixture. Cut the bread into cubes and spread them out on a baking sheet. Toast them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until they're lightly golden. This step adds a lovely crunch to the final dish.

For the custard, you'll need eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, and a bit of vanilla extract. In a large bowl, whisk together 4 eggs until they're well - beaten. Then, slowly pour in 2 cups of milk and 1 cup of heavy cream while continuously whisking. Add 3/4 cup of sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Keep whisking until the sugar is completely dissolved.

Now, it's time to incorporate the chocolate and walnuts. Chop up 8 ounces of semi - sweet chocolate into small pieces. You can also use chocolate chips if you prefer. Toast 1 cup of walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly until they're fragrant. Add the chopped chocolate and toasted walnuts to the bread cubes in a large baking dish. Pour the custard mixture over the bread, chocolate, and walnuts, making sure everything is well - coated. Let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the custard.

Preheat your oven to 325°F. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake the bread pudding for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 - 20 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set. You can test the center by inserting a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the bread pudding is ready.

While the bread pudding is baking, it's time to make the star of the show: the warm Kahlua coffee sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, 1/4 cup of heavy cream, 2 tablespoons of instant coffee granules dissolved in 2 tablespoons of hot water, and 2 tablespoons of Kahlua. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Once it boils, reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

When the bread pudding is done baking, let it cool for a few minutes. Then, scoop a generous portion onto a plate and drizzle the warm Kahlua coffee sauce over the top. You can also sprinkle some additional chopped walnuts or a dusting of cocoa powder for an extra touch of elegance.

This chocolate and walnut bread pudding with Kahlua coffee sauce is a rich and sweet treat that combines the comforting flavors of bread pudding with the boldness of chocolate, the nuttiness of walnuts, and the warmth of coffee and Kahlua. It's a dessert that will leave your taste buds dancing and your guests asking for seconds. Whether you're enjoying it on a quiet morning at home or serving it at a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

So, the next time you're in the mood for a delicious dessert, don't hesitate to try this chocolate and walnut bread pudding recipe. It's easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and the end result is nothing short of amazing. You'll be glad you took the time to whip up this decadent treat.

Remember, baking is not just about following a recipe; it's about having fun and creating something that brings joy to those around you. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and let the magic of baking begin. With this chocolate and walnut bread pudding, you're sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.

And if you want to get creative, you can experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark chocolate or white chocolate. You can also add other nuts like pecans or almonds for a different flavor profile. The possibilities are endless when it comes to this versatile dessert.

So, go ahead and give this recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you, and you'll have a new favorite dessert to add to your repertoire. Whether it's for a special occasion or just a regular day, this chocolate and walnut bread pudding with Kahlua coffee sauce is a dessert that you won't soon forget.