3/4 loaf French bread
4 tbsp. butter, softened
3 c. Half & Half
1/3 c. sugar
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla
1/8 tsp. salt
4 eggs
3 tbsp. maple syrup, optional

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

But bread into 1/2 inch slices. Spread one side of each bread slice with butter. In a 10 inch quiche dish, with sides at least 1 1/2 inch high, arrange bread slices buttered side up in spoke fashion to fill baking dish. Overlap bread slices, if necessary. Place on each slice of bread in the center.

In medium bowl with wire whisk or fork beat Half & Half, sugar, vanilla, salt and eggs until well mixed. Pour egg mixture over bread slices. With fork gently press bread slices into egg mixture. Bake 45 to 50 minutes until knife inserted in center of pudding comes out clean. Remove pudding to wire rack, brush with maple syrup. Serve warm or cold. Bake at 350 degrees.