Ingredients
2 large eggs, room temperature2 cups whole milk1/4 cup butter, cubed3/4 cup sugar1/4 teaspoon salt1 teaspoon ground cinnamon1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg1 teaspoon vanilla extract4-1/2 to 5 cups soft bread cubes (about 9 slices)1/2 cup raisins, optionalVANILLA SAUCE:1/3 cup sugar2 tablespoons cornstarch1/4 teaspoon salt1-2/3 cups cold water3 tablespoons butter2 teaspoons vanilla extract1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Preparation
In a large bowl, lightly beat eggs. Combine milk and butter; add to eggs along with sugar, salt, spices and vanilla. Add bread cubes and, if desired, raisins; stir gently.
Pour into a well-greased 11x7-in. baking dish. Bake at 350° until a knife inserted 1 in. from edge comes out clean, 40-45 minutes.
Meanwhile, for sauce, combine the sugar, cornstarch and salt in a saucepan. Stir in water until smooth. Bring to a boil over medium heat; cook and stir until thickened, about 2 minutes. Remove from the heat. Stir in the butter, vanilla and nutmeg. Serve with warm pudding.
