MEAN'S CHOCOLATE BREAD PUDDING WITH BOURBON-PECAN CARAMEL SAUCE

Steps:

• Note: I rarely make the sauce.
• Although it is wonderful, I prefer to use unsweetened whipped cream.
• Since this recipe is all about the chocolate, DO NOT USE Low quality.
• FOR SAUCE: Stir sugar and water in heavy large saucepan over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
• Mix in corn syrup and lemon juice.
• Increase heat and boil without stirring until syrup turns deep amber, brushing down sides of pan with wet pastry brush and swirling pan occasionally.
• Remove from heat.
• Pour in cream (mixture will bubble up).
• Stir over low heat until caramel is melted and smooth.
• Increase heat; boil until sauce is reduced to 1 2/3 cups, stirring often, about 4 minutes.
• Remove from heat.
• Mix in pecans and bourbon.
• (Can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and chill. Rewarm before using.) FOR PUDDING: Preheat oven to 350°F.
• Combine milk, cream and sugar in heavy large saucepan over medium-high heat.
• Stir until sugar dissolves and mixture comes to boil.
• Remove from heat.
• Add chocolate; stir until smooth.
• Beat eggs and vanilla in large bowl to blend.
• Gradually whisk in chocolate mixture.
• Add bread cubes.
• Let stand until bread absorbs some of custard, stirring occasionally, about 30 minutes.
• Transfer mixture to 13x9x2-inch glass baking dish.
• Cover with foil.
• Bake until set in center, about 45 minutes.
• Uncover; cool at least 15 minutes.
• Serve pudding warm or at room temperature with warm sauce.