1 1/2 qts. milk
3/4 lb. butter
2 c. sugar
4 eggs
2 oz. vanilla extract
3/4 c. raisins
1 1/2 loaves French bread (cut into bite sized cubes)

In large saucepan, heat milk and butter until melted. (Do not boil.) Mix together sugar, eggs and vanilla. Add to hot milk mixture. Stir well. Turn off flame. Add bread and raisins. Allow to soak 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Pour contents into buttered baking dish (or loaf pans). Dot top with softened butter. Place in water bath and bake in 350 degree oven for 1 hour. Serve chilled.

BOURBON SAUCE (optional) :

8 oz. butter
2 c. sugar
3 eggs
3/4 c. bourbon

Melt butter, add sugar, eggs and bourbon. Stir mixture over low heat until sugar dissolves; strain.