Apple Bread Pudding

3/4 cup raisins

2 teaspoons cinnamon

1/2 loaf good 1-day-old bread, cubed into about 4 cups

4-5 apples, peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch pieces

1/4 cup unsalted butter

1/3 cup dark brown sugar

3/4 cup walnut pieces, toasted

1 cup milk
1 cup cream

1/4 cup butter

2/3 cup brown sugar

2 eggs

3 egg yolks

2 teaspoons cinnamon

1 teaspoon ginger

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon cloves

1 teaspoon salt
Caramel Pecan Sauce (optional)

Butter an 8x8 square baking dish. Heat the oven to 350°F.

Toss the raisins with the cinnamon and set aside in a separate bowl. Put the bread cubes in the oven for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, to toast.

In a large frying pan, sauté the apple pieces with the butter and brown sugar until golden and barely tender. Mix the apples, raisins, and walnuts.

In a small saucepan heat the milk, cream, butter, and brown sugar until melted. Remove from heat and whisk in the eggs and egg yolks. Whisk in the spices and salt.

Mix the toasted bread in with the apples mixture. Pack into the baking dish and pour the cream mixture over. Let sit for an hour, if you have time, to absorb, or bake right away. Bake for about 45 minutes or until set. Let cool for at least 20 minutes before serving.

CARAMEL PECAN SAUCE
4 tablespoons butter

1/2 cup pecan halves

1 cup brown sugar

1 cup cream

Melt the butter and add the pecans. Cook the pecans in the butter, stirring, until fragrant (about 3-4 minutes). Add the brown sugar and stir until the sugar melts. Add the cream and stir to blend until smooth. Sauce can be made ahead and reheated. Serve warm pudding with heated sauce poured over and whipped cream on the side (if desired).