Creating New Orleans Bread Pudding is simple 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: Tear the day-old French bread into small pieces and place them in the baking dish.
3. Make Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
4. Combine Ingredients: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread. Allow it to sit for about 15 minutes so the bread can soak up the custard.
5. Add Fruits: If using, sprinkle raisins or other dried fruits on top of the soaked bread.
6. Mix in Butter: Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the bread mixture for added richness.
7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving.

These simple steps will guide you through the process of creating this incredible dessert effortlessly.