Pear And Fruit Bread Pudding

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 325°F. Lightly grease 4 - 13 oz ramekins. Place in a large baking dish.
2. 2
   In a medium frying pan, combine sugar and 1 tbsp water. Heat over medium heat, stirring, until sugar dissolves. Add pear slices and simmer, uncovered, for 3-5 mins, until just tender, stirring occasionally. Set aside.
3. 3
   In a medium saucepan, bring milk and vanilla bean to a boil. Set aside, covered, for 5 mins. Discard bean.
4. 4
   Arrange fruit bread and pear in ramekins, alternating layers. Whisk together eggs, cinnamon and nutmeg. Gradually whisk in warm milk then distribute between ramekins. Add enough hot water to come halfway up sides of baking dish. Bake for 30-35 mins, until just set.
5. 5
   Serve with heavy cream or ice cream