Chocolate Bread Pudding

Directions

1. 1
   Cut bread diagonally into 1/2 inch slices, then halve slices. Use half the butter to grease a 2 1/2 quart baking dish. Arrange bread in bottom of dish so slices overlap slightly.
2. 2
   Combine cream, milk, sugar and salt in a pan and stir over moderate heat until sugar has dissolved; do not boil. Remove from heat, stir in chocolate and let stand until chocolate has softened, about 3 mins. Stir until smooth.
3. 3
   Break eggs into a large bowl and beat lightly. Slowly add chocolate mixture, whisking until well combined, then stir in vanilla. Pour mixture over bread and let stand 1 hour, pressing bread down from time to time.
4. 4
   Preheat oven to 325°F. Dot remaining butter onto the top of pudding. Place dish in a larger baking pan with hot water coming halfway up sides of dish. Bake for 45-60 mins, or until custard has set but is still wobbly in the middle. Serve warm with whipped cream.