Creating The Best Bread Pudding is straightforward if you follow these steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish with butter.
2. Prepare Bread: In a large bowl, combine the cubed stale bread with raisins or chocolate chips if using. Set aside.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
4. Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture over the cubed bread, ensuring all pieces are soaked. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to absorb.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the bread mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
6. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and 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 from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving.

These simple steps will guide you to create this incredible dessert with ease!