Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, 3/4 cup of brown sugar, vanilla extract, melted butter, and half of your spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves) for about 60 seconds until well combined.
Toss your diced apples with the remaining 1/4 cup brown sugar and spices in a medium bowl until evenly coated.
Layer half the bread cubes in your prepared baking dish, followed by half the apple mixture and optional raisins or nuts. Repeat with remaining bread and apples.
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the top, gently pressing the bread down to ensure all pieces are soaked.
Allow the bread pudding to rest for 15 minutes before baking to give the bread time to fully absorb the custard.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly and the top forms a golden-brown crust (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
Allow to cool for 15 minutes before serving to let the pudding set properly.