Creating Comforting Bread Pudding With Warm Vanilla Sauce is a breeze when you follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Prepare the Bread: In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread and optional raisins or chocolate chips. Toss gently to mix.
3. Make the Custard: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until well combined. Pour this mixture over the cubed bread, pressing down gently to ensure all the bread absorbs the liquid.
4. Bake: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Prepare the Vanilla Sauce: While the pudding is baking, make the warm vanilla sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the cream, sugar, and butter. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.