In a shallow bowl or pie plate, whisk together milk, eggs, maple syrup, vanilla and apple pie spice.
Place 4 slices bread in egg mixture and allow to sit for 1 minute before turning over and soaking the second side for 1 minute.
Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat.
Add soaked bread and cook until golden brown, about 4 minutes per side.
Remove bread and cover to keep warm. Repeat with remaining 4 pieces of bread.
Spread 4 slices of bread with apple butter then top with remaining 4 pieces. Serve warm.