Black Labrador's Bread Pudding

Directions

1. 1
   Soak apples in lemon juice, One tablespoon brown sugar and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon.
2. 2
   Cover and refrigerate overnight before using.
3. 3
   Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
4. 4
   Remove crust from one loaf french bread and slice lengthwise down the middle, then cut into eight pieces.
5. 5
   Pour milk into small to medium saucepan(depending on the depth of the pan)and add granulated sugar;bring to a boil.
6. 6
   Beat eggs,brandy and almond flavoring together.
7. 7
   Whisk in a little of the hot milk, then add remainder,whisking until mixed.
8. 8
   Layer half of the bread pieces in a 9-inch square pan;pour half the liquid mixture over it.
9. 9
   Mash mixture with your hands, then pat down into a layer.
10. 10
    Mix prepared apples with nutmeg,remaining cinnamon, remaining brown sugar, some of the remaining milk mixture and raisins; spoon over bread.
11. 11
    Remove crust from remaining bread; cut bread into 1-1/2 inch rounds.
12. 12
    Overlap bread on top of apples, and pour remaining milk mixture on top.
13. 13
    Bake 25 minutes.
14. 14
    Remove from oven;glaze with apricot preserves.
15. 15
    Cut bread pudding into servings;place each serving in a bowl.
16. 16
    Pour Brandy Cream Sauce over each serving; serve hot.
17. 17
    Please note:plan ahead as the apples refrigerate overnight***.