Creating Dark Chocolate Bread Pudding is simple when you follow these steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare Bread: Place the cubed stale bread in a large mixing bowl.
3. Heat Dairy: In a saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream over medium heat. Stir until warm but not boiling.
4. Melt Chocolate: Add the chopped dark chocolate to the warm milk and cream mixture. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
5. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, espresso powder, and salt until well combined.
6. Combine Mixtures: Slowly pour the chocolate mixture into the egg mixture while whisking continuously to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
7. Combine with Bread: Pour the chocolate custard over the cubed bread. Gently fold until all the bread is well-coated.
8. Add Chocolate Chips: If using, fold in the chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
9. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
10. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is set and slightly golden.
11. Cool: Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving.

These steps will guide you in creating an incredible Dark Chocolate Bread Pudding that is sure to please!