Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Step 1 -Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Then lightly grease a 9x11-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2 -In a large bowl combine the 1 1/2 cups of the sugar, the milk, and the eggs, whisking together until smooth.

Step 3 -Add the vanilla extract, 1 stick of the melted butter, 1/2 teaspoon of the kosher salt, and the cinnamon and mix to combine.

Step 4 -Add half of the bread cubes to the egg mixture and press them down until submerged. Then, add the other half of the bread cubes, gently pressing down to lightly moisten.

Step 5 -Spoon half of the moistened bread cubes into the prepared pan, then top with half of the apple slices.

Step 6 -Repeat this layering with the remaining bread cubes and the remaining apple slices.

Step 7 -Place the pan in the oven and bake for 1 hour until the bread pudding is slightly crispy on the top and lightly browned.

Step 8 -In a medium saucepan, combine the remaining sugar, the heavy cream, the remaining melted butter, 1/2 teaspoon of the maple extract, and the remaining salt.

Step 9 -Bring the sauce mixture to a boil, then reduce to medium-low heat. For 5-10 minutes, allow the sauce to gently boil until reduced slightly.

Step 10 -Taste and adjust with the extra maple extract and the salt as desired.

Step 11 -Remove the bread pudding from the oven and drizzle it with the maple-cream sauce.

Step 12 -Serve warm!