Cherry Chocolate Almond Croissant Bread Pudding - Lucky Leaf

Ingredients

• 1 Tablespoon butter, softened
• 3 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 1/2 cups half-and-half or light cream
• 1 1/2 teaspoons almond extract
• 6 medium or 3 large croissants, halved horizontally
• 1 cup chocolate pieces, ground*
• 1 21-ounce can LUCKY LEAF® Regular, Premium, or Organic Cherry Fruit Filling or Topping
• 1 cup sliced almonds
• vanilla ice cream (optional)