Creating Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding is simple if you follow these easy steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar size.
2. Prepare Bread: Tear or cut the French bread into bite-sized cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs. Then whisk in the milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until fully combined.
4. Combine Mixtures: Pour the egg mixture over the cubed bread. Gently fold in the bread until all pieces are soaked.
5. Add Optional Ingredients: If using, fold in raisins and nuts for added texture and flavor.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the bread mixture into the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter on top for richness.
7. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Remove from the oven and let cool for about 15-20 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
9. Prepare Sauce (optional): Meanwhile, if desired, prepare a whiskey sauce by melting butter and mixing it with brown sugar, cream, and whiskey in a saucepan over medium heat until combined and smooth.
10. Serve: Slice the bread pudding into squares and serve warm, drizzled with the sauce or topped with ice cream.