Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

　　

Ingredients

Serves 2

　　1 cup 1/2-inch cubes white bread

　　1 1/4 cups half-and-half

　　1 tablespoon unsalted butter

　　1/2 teaspoon salt

　　1/2 teaspoon vanilla

　　1/4 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar

　　1 large egg

　　1 large egg yolk

　　vanilla ice cream as an accompaniment

　　

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350°F.

　　

Step 2

Butter two 1 1/4-cup ramekins and divide bread cubes between them.

　　

Step 3

In a small saucepan heat half-and-half, butter, salt, and vanilla over moderate heat until hot. In a small bowl whisk together sugar, egg, and yolk and add half-and-half mixture in a stream, whisking. Pour mixture over bread cubes and bake puddings in middle of oven until puffed and golden, about 25 to 30 minutes.

　　

Step 4

Serve puddings warm with ice cream.