Aunt Linnie's Apple Pecan Bread Pudding

Apple Pecan Bread Pudding

1 Cup - Pecans (Coarsely Chopped)
3 - Eggs (Well Beaten) 
8 Slices - Raisin Bread (Diced)
2 Cups - Half & Half (Or Milk)
2 - Medium Green Apples
1/4 Cup - Bourbon or Brandy (I prefer Brandy)
1/2 Cup Honey
1/4 Cup - Butter (Melted)
1 Tsp - Cinnamon
1/2 Tsp - Nutmeg

Vanilla Ice Cream - Optional

Preheat oven to 350° . 

Spread Pecans in a shallow baking pan and bake until golden, about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.  Meanwhile, place bread cubes in a greased 3-quart or larger slow cooker. 

Peel, core and thinly slice the apples.  Mix lightly together with the honey, cinnamon and nutmeg...Add eggs and mix well.  Blend in half & half (or milk) and then stir in the bourbon or brandy.

Lightly mix pecans with bread and apples. 

Pour egg mixture over the bread cubes.  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).