01 - 
                Cut baguette into 1/2 inch cubes. Either let stale for 24 hours on baking sheet, or quick-stale in 200°F oven for 1.5-2 hours.
              
              
              
                02 - 
                Mix diced apples with flour, sugar, and spice. Cook in butter and water until soft. Strain and save juices.
              
              
              
                03 - 
                Whisk eggs, milk, melted butter, vanilla, brown sugar, and spices in large bowl.
              
              
              
                04 - 
                Layer bread in greased 9x13 dish. Spread apple mixture over bread. Pour egg mixture over top, pressing bread to soak.
              
              
              
                05 - 
                Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes, cover with foil, bake 15-20 minutes more. Pour reserved apple juices over top.
              
              
              
                06 - 
                Let rest 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream if desired.