Dollywood Bread Pudding

1 1/4 cups granulated sugar, divided
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
8 cups day old egg bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1/4 cup butter, melted
1/3 cup raisins
1 quart half-and-half
8 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Heat oven to 400 degrees F. Grease 9 x 13-inch baking dish.

Combine 1/4 cup sugar with cinnamon.

Toss bread cubes, melted butter, raisins and sugar-cinnamon mixture in a large bowl.

Spread evenly in greased pan. Set aside. Whisk eggs lightly in bowl.

Bring cream, remaining sugar and vanilla to a boil. Gradually whisk cream mixture into eggs. Pour over bread mixture.

Place pan in water bath.

Bake 35-40 minutes until custard sets and top is golden brown.

Source: Gary Nichols/Dollywood