French Toast Stick Bread Pudding

This classic bread pudding is made with french toast, for a new spin on a timeless dessert.

1. In small saucepan, warm cognac just to a simmer. Do not boil. Remove from heat, add raisins, and let sit for 30 minutes.
2. Place French toast sticks in large bowl. Add melted butter and toss gently. Let sit for 5 minutes so bread absorbs the butter.
3. Whisk together milk, cream, eggs, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg and allspice. Pour evenly over French toast sticks. Add raisins and cognac. Toss gently. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2 hours.
4. Remove bread pudding from refrigerator and let rest on counter. Preheat oven to 450º F. Butter a casserole dish.
5. Sprinkle the buttered casserole evenly with 1 tablespoon sugar.
6. Pour bread mixture into prepared casserole. Bake uncovered 25-30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

• Serve with vanilla bean ice cream.
• Top with sliced strawberries and fresh whipped cream.
• Daypart suggestion: lunch through late night.