eat: the best bread pudding

If you like bread pudding, this is the absolute BEST recipe I've found. This is my daddy's all time favorite. Ingredients 2 c granulated sugar 5 large eggs 2 cups milk 2 tsp pure vanilla extract 3 c cubed Italian bread 1 c packed light brown sugar 1/4 c (1/2 stick) butter, softened 1 c chopped pecans For the sauce 1 c granulated sugar 1/2 c butter, melted 1 egg, beaten 2 tsp pure vanilla extract 1/4 c brandy (I used Grand Marnier) Directions Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 13x9 inch pan. Mix granulated sugar, eggs, and milk in a bowl; add vanilla. Pour over cubed bread and let sit for 10 minutes. In another bowl, mix and crumble together brown sugar, butter, and pecans. Pour bread mixture into prepared pan. Sprinkle brown sugar mixture over the top and bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until set. For the sauce Mix together the granulated sugar, butter, egg, and vanilla in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir together until the sugar is melted. Add the brandy, stirring well. Pour over bread pudding. Serve warm or cold. ENJOY! {Recipe comes from Paula Deen, 2007}