Sweet Cinnamon Apple Stuffed French Bread

Ingredients:

• 1 large French baguette
• 3 cups apples, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• Whipped cream or ice cream (for serving, optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the French baguette in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the bread from the center.
3. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook until the apples are soft and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Spoon the cream cheese mixture into the hollowed baguette halves, spreading it evenly. Top with the cinnamon apple mixture and sprinkle with nuts if desired.
6. Place the stuffed baguette halves on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is golden and the filling is warm and bubbly.
7. Let cool slightly, slice, and serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream if desired.