Title: Upside down bread pudding
 Categories: Desserts, Breads, Puddings
      Yield: 6 Servings
 
    1/3 c  Sugar
      8 sl White bread
      2 c  Milk
    1/8 ts Salt
    1/2 c  Sugar
      1 tb Butter; melted
      1 ts Vanilla
      2    Eggs; well beaten
    1/2 c  Dried figs; chopped
    1/2 c  Slivered almonds
 
  In small skillet over low heat, melt 1/3 cup sugar until it forms
  carmel-like syrup, stirring constantly. Pour into greased loaf pan,
  tipping slightly to coat sides. Break bread into mixing bow. Pour
  milk over; add salt, 1/2 cup sugar, butter, vanilla and eggs. Blend
  until well mixed. Stir in California dried figs. Spoon into loaf pan
  that has been coated with caramelized sugar.  Sprinkle with almonds.
  Bake at 350 degrees F. for 45 minutes.  Turn upside down on platter
  immediately. Serve hot or cold, plain or with custard sauce. Makes 6
  servings. (maw)