Old Fashioned Bread Pudding

Is there anything in the world more homey or satisfying than warm bread pudding? It is so versatile and easy to make, that you can have it ready to serve within an hour. Here is my basic recipe:


Bread Pudding

8 slices of stale bread ( I love to use wheat or french bread in mine)
2 cups of sugar
2 sticks of butter
3 eggs slightly beaten
1 tsp vanilla
approximately 4 cups of milk
1 tsp cinnamon

Cut the bread into 1 inch chunks and place into large mixing bowl. Pour milk in the bowl to allow it to soak into the bread. In separate bowl beat 3 eggs well, add the sugar,cinnamon and vanilla, beat well. Melt two sticks of butter and pour into bread and milk mixture ,stir until well incorporated. Add the egg/sugar mixture and mix gently together. Pour into a lightly greased dish( I use my corningware). Preheat oven to 350 degrees and bake for about 45 minutes until the center is set. Insert a knife to check and make sure it is done.

Variations:
French bread gives it a different yeasty taste which is very rich and yummy. I have also used hot dog buns, hamburger buns and white bread.
You can use evaporated milk, heavy cream,or half and half to substitute for some of the milk.
I have used raisins, apples, pears or any fall fruit to bump up the flavor.
Rum extract can be used instead of vanilla.

There are many recipes for sauce that can be poured on top, but I seldom use them. The pudding is very rich and with 2 sticks of butter it is already a heart stopper.

When you have leftover bread, just put the sack in the freezer and add to it. Soon you will have enough for a good size dessert to serve your family. I think it is a great way to use up stale bread or buns!

Hope you have a peaceful and restful day! My prayers are with the survivors and families of 9/11.