Follow these simple steps to create the Irresistible Custard Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Bread: Place the cubed bread into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
3. Mix the Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
4. Add Mix-Ins: If using, fold in raisins or nuts into the custard mixture.
5. Combine: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are soaked. Gently press down to allow the bread to absorb the custard.
6. Let It Sit: Allow the mixture to sit for 15-20 minutes, giving the bread time to soak up the custard.
7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the pudding is set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving.
9. Prepare Vanilla Sauce (Optional): While the pudding cools, you can prepare the vanilla sauce by combining 1 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of sugar in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, then stir in 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract. Allow to cool slightly before serving.