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Capirotada

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  • Author: Ava
  • Total Time: 60 minutes
  • Yield: 10-12 Servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Celebrate Mexican Easter traditions with Capirotada, a delicious Mexican bread pudding made with crispy bread, warm cinnamon-spiced piloncillo syrup, dried fruits, nuts, and cheese. This comforting dessert is a perfect Lenten treat, balancing sweet and savory flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

For the Syrup:

  • 4 cups water
  • 2 piloncillo cones (or 1 ½ cups dark brown sugar or ½ cup molasses)
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 4 whole cloves

For the Bread:

  • 6 bolillo rolls (or French bread, slightly stale, sliced into ½-inch pieces)
  • Lard, butter, or vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Layers:

  • 1 cup queso añejo (or queso fresco, mozzarella, or mild cheddar), crumbled
  • ½ cup raisins
  • ½ cup pecans (or peanuts)
  • 2 corn tortillas (optional, to line the baking dish)
  • 3 tbsp butter, melted

Instructions

1. Prepare the Piloncillo Syrup:

  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine water, piloncillo, cinnamon sticks, and cloves.
  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the piloncillo dissolves and forms a light syrup.
  3. Strain the syrup to remove the cinnamon and cloves. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Bread:

  1. Heat lard, butter, or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Fry bread slices until golden and crisp, then drain on paper towels. (Alternatively, toast the bread in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.)

3. Assemble the Capirotada:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. (Optional) Line a baking dish with corn tortillas to prevent sticking.
  3. Arrange a layer of fried bread in the dish.
  4. Sprinkle with raisins, pecans, and cheese.
  5. Drizzle with piloncillo syrup, making sure the bread soaks up the liquid.
  6. Repeat layers, finishing with nuts, raisins, and cheese on top.
  7. Pour any remaining syrup over the top and drizzle with melted butter.

4. Bake:

  1. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
  2. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to crisp the top.
  3. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Fruit Additions – Add apricots, cranberries, or dates for extra sweetness.
  • Spiced Flavor – Add nutmeg or allspice to the syrup for more warmth.
  • Savory Twist – Use a sharp cheese and garnish with fresh cilantro.
  • Lighter Version – Toast the bread instead of frying for a healthier alternative.
  • Alcohol Infusion – Add a splash of sherry or rum to the syrup for a bold flavor.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Find it online: https://realfoodinsight.com/capirotada/