IRISH BREAD PUDDING WITH WHISKEY CARAMEL SAUCE

Steps:

• Combine raisins and whiskey in a small bowl. Let sit until raisins are plump, about 30 minutes and up to overnight.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease 10-inch cast iron skillet with nonstick cooking spray.
• Combine milk, 1 cup granulated sugar, vanilla extract, evaporated milk, eggs, and salt in a large bowl. Whisk to combine. Add raisin-whiskey mixture and stir.
• Add bread cubes, pressing down gently to moisten; let stand about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Divide mixture among prepared cast iron skillet. Combine remaining 2 tablespoons granulated sugar and cinnamon; sprinkle over pudding. Transfer to oven and bake until custard is set and pudding is golden brown, about 35 minutes.
• Meanwhile, make caramel sauce: Combine granulated sugar and ⅔ cup water in a small saucepan over medium-high heat.
• Stir continuously until sugar dissolves.
• Simmer, not stirring, until sugar mixture is golden, about 18 minutes.
• Remove from heat and carefully add butter and cream cheese, stirring constantly with a whisk until all clumps are dissolved. Mixture will bubble vigorously. Stir in whiskey, milk, and salt to taste.
• Serve bread pudding warm with caramel-whiskey sauce.