Ingredients

1 loaf (16 ounces) sliced white bread1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling1/2 cup butter, softened1 cup sugar5 large eggs, room temperature2 cups 2% milk1 teaspoon ground cinnamon1 teaspoon vanilla extract3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chipsSweetened whipped cream, optional

Preparation

Place bread slices on ungreased baking sheets. Broil each pan 3-4 in. from heat until golden brown, 1-2 minutes on each side; let cool. Cut into 1-inch pieces; set aside.

Spoon pie filling into a greased 5- or 6-qt. slow cooker. In a large bowl cream butter and sugar until crumbly. Add 1 egg at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in milk, cinnamon and vanilla (mixture may appear curdled). Gently stir in chocolate chips and bread cubes; let stand until bread is softened, about 10 minutes. Transfer to slow cooker.

Cook, covered, on low until set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, 2-3/4-3-1/4 hours. Serve warm, with whipped cream if desired.