Bring the cherry nectar, except for 3 tbsp., vanilla sugar and cherries to the boil in a pot, continue to simmer for about 3 minutes. Mix the starch with 3 tbsp. nectar, add to the cherries while stirring, simmer for about 2 minutes, pour into a bowl. Cover compote with cling film and put aside
In the meantime melt butter and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Spread slices of bread with it. Whisk milk, eggs, 3 tablespoons sugar and poppy seeds. Layer the slices of bread and stewed cherries in a greased casserole dish. Pour egg milk over the bread.
Cover the casserole with aluminium foil and bake in a preheated oven (electric range: 175 °C/ convection oven: 150 °C/ gas: level 2) for 45-50 minutes. After about 35 minutes sprinkle almonds on top and bake until done