Creating Easy New Orleans Bread Pudding with Bourbon Sauce can be a delightful experience. Follow these steps for success:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Bread: In a large bowl, combine the cubed French bread and set it aside.
3. Make the Custard Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
4. Combine Mixtures: Pour the custard mixture over the cubed bread. Gently toss to coat the bread evenly. If using, add in the raisins and chopped pecans at this stage.
5. Let it Soak: Allow the mixture to sit for about 15 minutes, giving the bread time to absorb the custard.
6. Bake: Pour the soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool: Remove the bread pudding from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes.
8. Prepare the Bourbon Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar and butter. Stir until the butter melts and the mixture is smooth.
9. Add Cream and Bourbon: Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and bourbon. Continue to stir until the sauce is thickened and bubbly. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
10. Serve: Drizzle the warm bourbon sauce over individual servings of the bread pudding.

By following these easy steps, you’ll create an incredible dessert that embodies the spirit of New Orleans.