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

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating 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 stale bread with the raisins and pecans if using. Set aside to allow the bread to absorb the flavors.
3. Mix the Custard: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
4. Combine Mixtures: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are thoroughly soaked. Allow it to sit for about 10-15 minutes to absorb.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
6. Bake: Place the dish 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.
7. Cool: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving.
8. Prepare Sauce (Optional): While the pudding is cooling, you can prepare a bourbon or vanilla sauce to drizzle over the top if desired.

These steps will guide you in creating this incredible bread pudding with ease.