1-Break the bread into 1-inch pieces and place them in the prepared baking dish.

2-Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and drizzle it over the bread pieces for added moisture and flavor.

3-In a separate bowl, whisk together the 4 beaten eggs, 2 cups of milk, 3/4 cup of white sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon until fully combined.

4-Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread in the dish, making sure every piece gets soaked.

5-Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes so the bread can absorb the liquid, which helps create that creamy texture.

6-Bake uncovered for 45 minutes, or until the top springs back when lightly touched and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

7-For an extra touch, make an optional brown sugar sauce by melting 3 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over high heat, then reduce to medium to brown it. Add 1 tablespoon of brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, stir well, remove from heat, and let it rest for 1-2 minutes before drizzling over the baked pudding.