Making Festive Cinnamon Swirl Eggnog Bread Pudding is easy if you follow these steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish with butter.
2. Prepare the Bread: In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread, ensuring it’s evenly distributed in the dish.
3. Mix the Custard: In another bowl, whisk together the eggnog, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
4. Combine: Pour the custard mixture over the bread, ensuring every piece is soaked. If using, add raisins or nuts to the mixture.
5. Let It Sit: Allow the mixture to sit for about 15 minutes, giving the bread time to absorb the custard.
6. Bake: Transfer the mixture to the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cooling Time: Once baked, remove the bread pudding from the oven and let it cool for 15-20 minutes.
8. Serve: Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.

With these straightforward steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delightful Festive Cinnamon Swirl Eggnog Bread Pudding that everyone will love.