Creating Irresistible Festive Gingerbread Bread Pudding is straightforward if you follow these easy steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare Bread: In a large bowl, place the cubed bread and set aside.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, salt, and molasses until well combined.
4. Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture over the cubed bread, gently folding to combine. Allow the bread to soak for about 15 minutes.
5. Add Nuts: If using, fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the bread mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for 10-15 minutes before serving.
9. Serve: Serve warm with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce, if desired.

By following these steps, you’ll create an incredibly delicious gingerbread bread pudding that will be the highlight of your holiday festivities.