Chocolate Decadence Bread Pudding

I got this recipe from a Spice Island Recipe card that was tucked in a womans magazine years ago. I have been making it for years and have always got rave reviews. Old fashioned white bread works best but you can use any type of white bread. I can't find it on thier website anymore so I want to post it for safe keeping.

• Ready In: 1 hr 5 mins
• Serves: 6
• Yields: 1 dish

Ingredients

• 3  cups  whole milk, divided
• 4  ounces  semi-sweet chocolate baking squares
• 3⁄4 cup sugar
• 1⁄4 cup butter
• 5  cups  white bread, cubed
• 2  teaspoons vanilla
• 3⁄4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 3  eggs, lightly beaten

Directions

1. For custard combine 2 c milk, chocolate, sugar and butter in a large bowl. Microwave on High for 9 minutes, stirring every 3 minutes, or until chocolate is melted.
2. Stir bread cubes, vanilla, cinnamon and remaining milk into hot mixture. Stir in eggs. Let stand 5 minutes.
3. Stir and pour into buttered 1 1/2 quart baking dish. Bake at 350 for 45-55 minutes or until table knife inserted into center comes out clean.
4. Serve warm. May be topped with whipped cream and shaved chocolate for an elegant presentation.