Orange Chocolate Bread Pudding

Directions

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.