Creating this Classic Bread Pudding Recipe with Warm Vanilla Sauce is straightforward if you follow these simple steps:

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

2. Prepare the Bread: In a large bowl, combine the cubed stale bread with raisins or chocolate chips if using. Set aside to allow the bread to soak up the flavors.

3. Make the Custard Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.

4. Combine: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes. Gently fold the bread into the mixture, ensuring all pieces are soaked. Let it sit for about 10 minutes.

5. Bake: Transfer the bread mixture to the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes, until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Make the Warm Vanilla Sauce: While the bread pudding is baking, prepare the sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Add the vanilla extract. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with water and add it to the pan, cooking until thickened.

7. Cool and Serve: Once the bread pudding is cooked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. Drizzle warm vanilla sauce over each portion before serving.