Warm Chocolate Bread Pudding

Nothing more satisfying than warm chocolate. Great to prepare ahead of time and pull from the oven as dinner finishes up. Great dessert for Valentines

• Ready In: 25 mins
• Serves: 2

Ingredients

•  nonstick cooking spray
• 1  cup  firm-textured  white bread cubes (from about 1-1/4 slices of Italian or sourdough bread)
• 2  tablespoons  miniature semisweet chocolate chips
• 2  tablespoons sugar
• 1⁄3 cup nonfat milk
• 1  egg
• 1⁄2 teaspoon  finely shredded  orange peel
• 1⁄4 teaspoon vanilla
•  sifted powdered sugar (optional) or   fat-free whipped topping (optional)

Directions

1. Spray two 6-ounce individual souffle dishes or custard cups with nonstick cooking spray. Divide the bread cubes between the two souffle dishes or cups.
2. Combine chocolate, sugar, and milk in a small saucepan. Stir over low heat until the chocolate melts; remove from heat. Beat smooth with a wire whisk, if necessary.
3. Place egg in a small bowl; gradually stir in the chocolate mixture. Add the orange peel and vanilla. Pour mixture over bread in the two dishes or cups. Press lightly with back of spoon to be sure all bread cubes are moistened. If desired, desserts may be covered and refrigerated for 1 to 2 hours before baking. Uncover before baking.
4. Bake in a 350 degree F oven for 15 to 20 minutes until the tops appear firm and a knife inserted near the centers comes out clean. Cool about 10 minutes; serve warm. Top with sprinkles of powdered sugar or dollops of whipped topping, if desired.