Black Forest Bread Pudding

Directions

1. 1
   Butter a 3 quart rectangular baking dish with some of the butter.
2. 2
   Spread remaining butter on bread slices.
3. 3
   Place bread slices in baking dish, overlapping, if necessary, to fit.
4. 4
   Sprinkle with frozen cherries, half the chocolate pieces, and the cinnamon; set aside.
5. 5
   In a medium saucepan combine remaining chocolate pieces, 1 cup of the whipping cream, and the sugar. Heat and stir till the chocolate is melted. Gradually stir in remaining cream.
6. 6
   Beat eggs in a very large bowl.
7. 7
   Stir in melted chocolate mixture and almond extract.
8. 8
   Slowly pour over bread in dish.
9. 9
   Cover and chill 2 hours or overnight.
10. 10
    Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
11. 11
    Uncover bread pudding and place baking dish on a foil lined baking sheet.
12. 12
    Bake for 70 to 80 minutes or until an instant read thermometer register 160 degrees when inserted into middle.
13. 13
    Cool on a wire rack at least 45 minutes.
14. 14
    Serve warm.
15. 15
    Garnish with whipped cream and almonds.