Spread the cubed bread evenly on a large cookie sheet or pan, allowing it to dry out for about 1 hour.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.

Lightly grease a 9" x 13" pan and arrange half of the dried bread cubes in an even layer. If not using meat, place all the cubed bread straight into the greased pan.

If using cooked bacon or sausage, scatter it over the bread cubes and top with the remaining bread cubes.

Pour the egg and milk mixture over the assembled bread cubes, pressing down gently to help the bread soak up the custard.

Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for several hours, preferably overnight.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the top of the bread mixture before placing it in the oven.

Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, until the top is lightly browned and a toothpick comes out clean.

Remove from the oven and dust with additional cinnamon sugar if desired.

Cut into squares and serve warm, drizzled with maple syrup if desired.