BUN PUDDING

1 bag (8-count) hot dog buns, torn into pieces
4 1/2 cups whole milk (substitute part half-and-half for richer pudding)
3 eggs
1 cup sugar (or less)
1 tablespoon orange liqueur or vanilla
1 cup chocolate chips
1 cup chopped pecans
whipped cream or ice cream (optional, for serving)

Place torn pieces of bread in large bowl. Add remaining ingredients. Pour into a greased 13x9-inch baking dish.

Bake at 350 degrees about 50 minutes, or until top is golden brown and puffed (it will "fall" upon cooling).

Remove from oven and serve with whipped cream or ice cream, if desired.

Adapted from source: Wichita Eagle, May 2007