Follow these simple steps to create your own Bourbon Bread Pudding New Orleans Style:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Bread: Place the cubed bread in a large mixing bowl and set aside.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, salt, and bourbon until well combined.
4. Combine Mixtures: Pour the egg mixture over the cubed bread. Gently fold the bread into the mixture, ensuring all pieces are well coated. If using, add raisins and chopped pecans at this stage.
5. Let it Soak: Allow the mixture to sit for about 15 minutes to let the bread soak up the liquid.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
7. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Remove the bread pudding from the oven and let it cool for about 15-20 minutes before serving.
9. Prepare Bourbon Sauce (optional): In a small saucepan, combine heavy cream, powdered sugar, and bourbon. Heat over low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the sauce is warm.