Apple Pecan Bread Pudding

DIRECTIONS

• Preheat oven to 350.
• Spread pecans in a shallow baking pan and bake until golden, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Meanwhile, place bread cubes in a greased 3 qt. or larger slow cooker.
• Peel, core and thinly slice the apples.
• Mix lightly together the sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg, add eggs and mix well.
• Blend in half and half or milk and then stir in bourbon or brandy.
• Lightly mix pecans with bread and apples.
• Pour egg mixture over bread. Drizzle with butter.
• Cover and cook on low until apples are tender when pierced and custard is set; about 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 hours.
• Let pudding stand, covered, for about 15 minutes. Serve warm with ice cream, if desired.