Grandma Davidson's Baked Apple Pudding

Preheat oven to 400°. In a large bowl, mix the first 5 ingredients. Add milk; stir just until blended. Fold in apples. Transfer to a greased 2-1/2-qt. deep baking dish. Dot with butter., Pour boiling water over top. Bake, uncovered, 40-45 minutes or until golden brown. Let stand 15 minutes before serving. If desired, serve with ice cream.