Creating this Easy New Orleans Bread Pudding with Bourbon Sauce is a straightforward process if you follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
2. Prepare the Bread: Place the cubed bread in a large mixing bowl. If using, add raisins or pecans for added texture and flavor.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
4. Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are thoroughly soaked. Allow it to sit for about 15 minutes for the bread to absorb the liquid.
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 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Prepare the Bourbon Sauce: While the pudding is baking, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the powdered sugar, bourbon, and vanilla extract, whisking until smooth and combined.

After the pudding is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes. Drizzle the warm bourbon sauce over the top before serving.