Double Chocolate Cherry Bread Pudding

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
2. 2
   Lightly coat an 8X8 baking dish with cooking spray.
3. 3
   Microwave 4 oz milk chocolate on medium power until melted - let cool.
4. 4
   Combine the dried cherries and cognac or hot water and microwave for 1 minute or until plumped slightly.
5. 5
   Let stand until room temperature.
6. 6
   In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light.
7. 7
   Whisk in the cooled chocolate, half and half, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth.
8. 8
   Gently stir in remaining ingredients.
9. 9
   Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and let stand for 30 minutes (You may refrigerate for up to 2 hrs if needed but I have also baked right away before with great results!)
10. 10
    Bake for 40 mins or until set in middle.