Swedish Apple Bread Pudding

Instructions

1. Place bread slices in a single layer in a shallow pan.
2. Evenly drizzle 1/2 cup half and half over the bread.
3. In a medium saucepan, mix sugar and water; bring to a boil.
4. Cover and reduce heat; simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
6. Return to medium heat.
7. Add 1/3 of the apple slices and simmer each portion for 3 minutes; remove with a slotted spoon.
8. Reserve the sugar syrup from the poaching.
9. Line a buttered shallow 2 1/2-quart baking dish with half of the bread.
10. Top with half of the poached apples.
11. Make a layer of one-third of the bread slices.
12. Cover evenly with the remaining apples.
13. Layer with the rest of the bread slices.
14. Beat eggs; mix in cinnamon and cardamom, then add 1 1/2 cups half and half and the reserved sugar syrup.
15. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the assembled layers.
16. Dot with butter.
17. Bake at 350°F (175°C) until the top layer is brown and crusty, about 1 hour.