1 loaf stale French bread
2 c. milk
3 eggs, beaten
1 tsp. vanilla
1 tbsp. cinnamon
1/2 c. brown or white sugar
1 c. raisins
1/2 c. butter, melted
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 c. chopped nuts

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Tear bread into small pieces, place in bowl, cover with milk and let soak. Wash hands and swish bread with hand. Add eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, sugar, raisins, butter and nuts. Pour into a buttered 8 or 9-inch pan. Bake about 45 minutes until set in middle and browned on top.

Cut into squares and serve warm with sweetened whipped cream, flavored if desired with Grand Marnier or brandy or lemon sauce.

LEMON SAUCE:

Mix together 1/2 cup sugar and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Slowly add 1 cup boiling water. Cook and stir until thick. Add 1 tablespoon butter, 1 teaspoon lemon peel, grated, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice.