1 16-ounce loaf French bread
1/2 cup raisins
1 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or other non-dairy milk), vanilla or plain
1 cup mashed overripe bananas
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup dark brown sugar
2 teaspoons cornstarch or potato starch
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon allspice
1/2 cup apple cider or apple juice
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon apple juice
1 1/2 – 2 tablespoons brandy, rum, or bourbon (see Notes below)
1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)*