In a saucepan, heat 1/2 cup sugar until it melts and caramelizes.
Prepare the pudding mixture: in a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups condensed milk, 4 eggs, 1/2 cup cream cheese, 1/2 tsp vanilla essence, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
Fold the bread strips into the pudding mixture until fully soaked.
Pour the prepared pudding mix into a lined baking dish.
Smooth out the surface and cover with aluminum foil, ensuring it's tightly sealed to prevent any air bubbles from forming.
Bake for 45 minutes at high heat. Once done, let it cool in the refrigerator for several hours before serving.