Apple Twist Dessert (Print Format)

Homemade apple filling baked with spiced French bread pudding. Cozy, warm, and just right with some vanilla ice cream on the side.

# Ingredients:

01 - 1 cup water.
02 - 4-6 tablespoons butter.
03 - 3/4 cup packed brown sugar.
04 - 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder.
05 - 2 teaspoons warm apple pie spices.
06 - 2 1/2 tablespoons plain flour.
07 - 16 oz crusty baguette.
08 - 5 large eggs.
09 - 1 teaspoon apple pie spice mix.
10 - 1/2 cup brown sugar.
11 - 4 tablespoons melted unsalted butter.
12 - 1 3/4 pounds sweet Gala apples.
13 - 2 1/4 cups rich whole milk.
14 - 2 teaspoons real vanilla extract.

# Steps:

01 - Slice baguette into 1/2-inch cubes. Let it dry out for 24 hours on a sheet pan or speed up by baking at 200°F for 90-120 minutes.
02 - Combine chopped apples, flour, sugar, and spices. Simmer in butter with water till soft, then strain and keep the liquid.
03 - In a sizable bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, melted butter, vanilla, brown sugar, and spices.
04 - In a greased 9x13 dish, layer the bread. Spread the apple filling across the bread. Pour egg mix over everything, pressing the bread into the liquid gently.
05 - Start baking at 375°F for half an hour. Cover with foil, bake another 15-20 minutes, then drizzle the saved apple juices on top.
06 - Let it sit and cool down for 10 minutes. Serve warm. If you'd like, add a scoop of ice cream on the side.

# Tips:

01 - Mix cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg if you don't have apple pie spice.
02 - Using dried-out bread is key for the right texture.
03 - The leftover apple juices add extra flavor and moisture.