Making Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding is a straightforward process if you follow these simple steps:

1. Prepare Oven and Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Cube the Bread: Cut the day-old bread into 1-inch cubes and place them in the prepared baking dish.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
4. Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture evenly over the cubed bread. Gently press down on the bread cubes to ensure they absorb the custard mixture.
5. Add Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the top of the bread and gently fold them in.
6. Drizzle Butter: Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the mixture for added richness.
7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 15-20 minutes before serving.
9. Dust with Powdered Sugar: If desired, dust the top with powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.

By following these steps, you’ll create a comforting and satisfying Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding that is sure to impress!