• 8 Rustic Italian Slices
• 12 cups diced peeled tart apples
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon sugar
• 5 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 3 eggs
• 2/3 cup milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Confectioners' sugar, optional

① In a large saucepan, cook apples and water over medium heat for 10 minutes or until apples are tender. Combine 1/2 cup sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon and nutmeg; stir into apple mixture. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Remove from the heat; stir in lemon juice.
② Spread four slices of bread with 1/3 cup filling; top with remaining bread. In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs, milk, vanilla and remaining sugar.
③ Dip sandwiches in egg mixture. Cook on a lightly greased hot griddle until golden brown on both sides. Sprinkle with confectioners' sugar if desired.