Remove the crusts from the bread and butter generously. Halve the slices diagonally to create triangles. Butter an ovenproof baking dish and layer the bread, buttered sides up. Sprinkle with the raisins if using. Beat the eggs, milk, sugar, NoMU Sweet Rub, NoMU Vanilla Paste and orange zest together.
Pour evenly over the bread. Sprinkle the almonds and some more NoMU Sweet Rub over the top. Leave for half an hour for the custard to properly soak into the bread. In the interim, preheat your oven to 180ºC. Bake for approximately 1 hour until golden brown and just set in the middle.
Note: Do not overcook it as it will carry on cooking and set further after you remove it from the oven.
Tip: If you have time, gently boil the raisins and/or sultanas in a little orange juice or brandy before sprinkling over the bread.
