Creating Classic New Orleans Bread Pudding can be straightforward if you follow these simple 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: In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread and melted butter. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Make Custard Mixture: In another large bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
4. Combine Mixtures: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes. Gently stir until the bread is well-coated and the custard is absorbed.
5. Add Raisins: If using, fold in the raisins or any other mix-ins you prefer.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Remove from the oven and let it cool for 15-20 minutes before serving.
9. Prepare Sauce (if desired): While the bread pudding is cooling, you can prepare a bourbon or rum sauce if you prefer a rich topping.
10. Serve Warm: Slice the bread pudding and serve warm, drizzled with the sauce.

These steps will guide you to create this incredible dessert effortlessly.