My mother made this bread pudding when I was growing up...a nice change from the standard bread pudding recipe. Try it for a change.

3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar

1/2 tsp. cinnamon

3/4 cup water

2 1/2 cups French bread, cubed (1/2 inch)

3/4 - 1 cup raisins (golden are best)

3/4 cup chopped walnuts

1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

2 tsp. butter

Combine brown sugar, cinnamon and water in a sauce pan. Boil gently until sugar is dissolved. Pour hot syrup over bread cubes, toss until blended. Grease 1 1/2 quart casserole or baking pan with butter. Spoon bread mixture into baking pan, bake at 375 degrees for 15 minutes, or until heated through. Serve warm with sweetened whipped cream. Serves 6.