1. Prep the Bread

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast for about 10 minutes until lightly golden.

2. Make the Apple Filling

• In a medium saucepan, combine:
  • 3 chopped apples
  • ½ cup light brown sugar
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
• Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes, or until apples soften and mixture becomes syrupy. Set aside.

3. Prepare the Custard Base

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
  • 2½ cups whole milk
  • 4 large eggs
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
• Mix until smooth and fully combined.

4. Assemble the Bread Pudding

1. Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Layer half of the toasted bread cubes in the dish.
3. Spoon half of the apple mixture over the bread. Repeat with the remaining bread and apples.
4. Slowly pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and apples.
5. Let sit for 15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the custard.

5. Bake the Bread Pudding

• Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.

6. Make the Bourbon Sauce

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt ½ cup unsalted butter.
2. Stir in:
   • 1 cup light brown sugar
   • ¼ cup heavy cream
3. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly, for 3 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in 3 tablespoons bourbon.

7. Serve and Enjoy

• Drizzle the warm bourbon sauce over the bread pudding just before serving.
• Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat.