Preheat oven to 350 degree F. In a large mixing bowl combine bread cubes and chocolate pieces. Transfer to a lightly greased 13x9x2-inch baking dish or 3-quart rectangular casserole; set aside.

In a medium bowl stir together eggs, the 3 cups cream, 1 cup brown sugar, the cinnamon, and salt. Slowly pour over bread. Press bread lightly with back of a large spoon to moisten bread completely. Sprinkle with pecans. Bake, uncovered, for 40 to 45 minutes or until egg mixture is set. (To make ahead, cover; chill up to 24 hours. Bake as directed.)

Meanwhile, for sauce, in a small heavy saucepan combine the 1/2 cup brown sugar and the cornstarch. Stir in the 1/3 cup cream, the water, and corn syrup. Cook and stir until thickened and bubbly (mixture may appear curdled at first). Cook and stir for 2 minutes more. Remove saucepan from heat; stir in butter and vanilla. Pour sauce over the hot bread pudding. Let stand 30 minutes before serving. Makes 16 servings.

Prepare bread mixture; cover and chill up to 24 hours. Bake and serve as above.