1 qt. milk, scalded
2 c. day-old bread cubes
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 c. sugar
3 eggs
3 tbsp. melted butter
1/2 tsp. vanilla

Set oven for 325 degrees. Pour milk over bread cubes. Add salt and sugar. Beat eggs; add to bread mixture with butter and vanilla; mix well. Pour into a 1 1 1/2 quart greased casserole. Set casserole in a pan. Pour in hot water to within 1 inch of top. Bake 50 to 60 minutes, or until knife inserted near rim comes out clean. Makes 8 servings.

SURPRISE PUDDING:

Use plain whole wheat or raisin whole-wheat bread instead of white bread in making Custard Bread Pudding.

CHOCOLATE BREAD PUDDING:

Add 2 squares unsweetened chocolate, melted, to bread and milk mixture in Custard Bread Pudding. Use 3/4 cup of sugar instead of 1/2.