The baking extravaganza has begun!

Every year for as long as i can remember, I have had a baking extravaganza during the holidays.  when I was younger, I went to my aunt Joyce's house and made candy with her.  Later, I did it myself.  now, i have daughters!  So, the baking has begun for this holiday season.  no black Friday shopping for these girls, no way.  we do black Friday baking.
So, for today, you get...

Bread pudding with Amaretto sauce

First, I should say, i prefer bread pudding made with challah or brioche.  I could not find any at the store, so I made my own.  Step one, make or buy bread.

Then, you will need to whisk together 12 eggs, 4 cups of half and half, 1 cup sugar, 1 tsp vanilla, 1 tsp cinnamon, and 1 tsp cardamom.  Add cubed bread and soak for about 30 minutes.

At this point, you can add dried fruit or nuts if you would like.  We have tried chocolate chips before, that was pretty good also.

Spray a 9x13 pan really well.  pour bread mixture into pan.  Bake at 325 for 45-50 minutes until firm.  Allow to cool to room temperature.

For amaretto sauce, mix 1.5 cups of milk, 1.5 cups of heavy cream, and .25 cups of sugar in a small pan and bring to a boil.  Add 3/4 cup amaretto, reduce heat to a simmer.  Whisk together 1 TBS cornstarch with 1 TBS water, add to mixture, cook until slightly thickened.  Pour over bread pudding and allow to soak through.  This is good hot, cold, or room temperature.  it's always a hit at family parties.