1/2 loaf French bread
1/2 c. chopped pitted dates or raisins
1/4 c. melted butter
1 tbsp. vanilla
Whiskey Sauce
2 c. milk
3 slightly beaten eggs
1 c. sugar
2 tsp. ground cinnamon

Tear bread into small pieces. You should have 4 cups. Combine bread, milk and dates. Let stand 15 minutes or until bread is softened, stirring often.

Beat together eggs, sugar, melted butter, vanilla and cinnamon. Stir into bread mixture until blended. Turn into a greased 8 x 8 x 2 inch baking dish. Bake in a 350 degree oven for 40-50 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Serve warm with Whiskey Sauce. Serves 9.

WHISKEY SAUCE:

In a small saucepan, melt 1/4 cup butter. Stir in 1/2 cup sugar, 1 egg yolk and 2 tablespoons water. Cook and stir over medium heat for 5-6 minutes or until sugar dissolves and mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons bourbon. Makes 2-3 cup. Serve over bread pudding and garnish with apple wedges and sprig of mint.