Preheat oven to 350 F. Butter two 1-1/2-cup ramekins and divide bread cubes between them. In a small saucepan heat half-and-half, butter, salt, and vanilla over moderate heat until hot. In a small bowl whisk together sugar, egg, and yolk and add half-and-half mixture in a stream, whisking. Pour mixture over bread cubes and bake puddings in middle of oven until puffed and golden, about 25 to 30 minutes. Serve puddings warm with ice cream. Serves 2.