Creating the Classic Bread Pudding Recipe with Warm Vanilla Sauce is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps for a delicious dessert:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.

2. Prepare the Bread: In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread. Set aside.

3. Mix the Egg Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.

4. Combine: Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are soaked. Gently stir in optional raisins or chocolate chips if desired.

5. Let It Soak: Allow the mixture to sit for about 10-15 minutes, letting the bread absorb the liquid.

6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

7. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Cool: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes.

9. Prepare the Warm Vanilla Sauce: In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, granulated sugar, and butter over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

10. Serve: Cut the bread pudding into squares and serve warm with a drizzle of warm vanilla sauce over the top.