- You may chop your pecans or leave them whole. I find that chopped pecans are easier to cut and eat but whole pecans make for a nicer presentation, so I use a combination of the two.
- I used challah bread for this recipe. About 11 to 12 ounces gave me 6 cups of cubed bread. However, any soft-crusted bread -- brioche, croissants, a loaf of white French bread -- would be wonderful. You may tear your bread instead of cubing it if that's easier.
- Golden Delicious apples bake up softer than Granny Smiths, but feel free to use your favorite cooking apple.
- For extra decadence, half-and-half or heavy cream may be substituted for milk.
Adapted from Perfect Party Food.