Bread Pudding

Ingredients:

• 4 c soft bread, torn or cubed

• 2 c milk (may substitute cream for a richer dessert)

• 4 TB butter

• 1/2 c sugar

• 2 eggs, slightly beaten

• 1/4 tsp cinnamon

• optional: 1/2 c chocolate chips

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350º F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

2. In a small sauce pan over medium heat, scald the milk (bring it to almost a boil but don't let it boil). Allow to cool until it is just warm or room temperature. Blend the butter into the milk, whisking until combined.

3. Evenly distribute the bread cubes in the baking dish.

4. In a small bowl, combine the eggs, sugar, salt, and cinnamon.

5. Pour the liquid mixture over the bread cubes. If using chocolate chips, sprinkle them over the mixture.

6. Place the baking dish on a sheet pan inside the oven. Pour hot water into the sheet pan to create a water bath.

7. Bake for about 30 minutes. Check doneness using a knife or skewer (it should come out clean).