Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Place bread in a baking dish sprayed with non-stick cooking spray.
Sprinkle with the pecans and apple pieces. Using your fingers, gently distribute the fruit evenly among the bread.
Whisk together the water and brown sugar until the sugar is dissolved. Pour the sugar water over the bread.
Combine the remaining ingredients, mixing well and then pour the mixture over bread, making sure to soak everything evenly.
Bake for 50-60 minutes or until knife inserted in center comes out clean. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce, if desired.