Diplomatic Pudding

Directions

1. 1
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled bread with the milk, stir to mix and let stand for 1 hour.
2. 2
   Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 200 degrees F. and place a 2 quart baking dish in it to heat up.
3. 3
   In a small saucepan over medium high heat, combine 1 cup of the sugar, the butter, and water.
4. 4
   Stir together until the mixture begins to bubble and turn a caramel brown color, about 10 to 12 minutes.
5. 5
   Remove the baking dish from the oven and pour the caramel into it, swirling to coat the bottom and up the sides of the dish evenly.
6. 6
   Set aside to cool.
7. 7
   Turn the oven up to 325 degrees F. In another mixing bowl, beat together the eggs, remaining 1 1/2 cups sugar, and the vanilla until well blended.
8. 8
   Stir the egg mixture into the bread and milk mixture, then stir in the oranges, almonds, and raisins.
9. 9
   Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake on the middle rack of the oven for 1 1/2 hours.
10. 10
    Cool slightly and serve warm, or cover with plastic wrap after cool and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 3 hours before serving.
11. 11
    Note: To toast almonds, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spread the almonds on a cookie sheet and toast in the oven until golden, 8 to 10 minutes.
12. 12
    Set aside to cool.