In a mixing bowl, beat together sugar and butter, then combine remaining ingredients.

Butter a casserole dish; transfer mixture and spread evenly. Set the casserole dish in a pan of water in the oven.

Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 1 hour. Stir twice during the first half hour of cooking, every 15 minutes.

Variation: Sprinkle top with flaked coconut during last 10 minutes of baking.

Serve warm or refrigerate and serve cold the next day topped with whipped cream.