Traditional Capirotada Recipe (Mexican Bread Pudding)
Capirotada, a Mexican bread pudding, is a classic dessert, especially popular during Lent. This dish is cherished for its blend of flavors: sweet piloncillo syrup, warm cinnamon, and a hint of spice from cloves. Raisins, peanuts, and Monterey Jack cheese add texture and depth, while toasted bolillo or French bread forms the base. If you’re new to capirotada or looking to bring back fond memories of family gatherings, this recipe is sure to delight.
Ingredients
6 cups of water
3 piloncillo cones (see tips for alternatives)
3 Mexican cinnamon sticks
3 whole cloves
1 cup raisins
1/2 cup roasted, salted peanuts
12 thick slices of bolillo or French bread (around 1/3 inch thick; see note for substitutes)
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Preparation and Cooking Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Piloncillo Syrup
Start by creating a rich, spiced syrup that forms the foundation of the capirotada. In a medium-sized stockpot, add 6 cups of water along with the piloncillo cones, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves. Place the pot over medium-high heat. Stir occasionally to help dissolve the piloncillo as the mixture heats up.
Allow the syrup to simmer until it begins to thicken. This process should take around 10 to 15 minutes, during which the flavors from the cinnamon and cloves infuse into the syrup. Once the piloncillo has fully dissolved and the syrup has slightly thickened, remove the pot from heat and set it aside. Letting the syrup cool slightly will make it easier to pour over the bread layers later on.
Step 2: Toast the Bread
The bread forms the base of this pudding, and toasting it adds a layer of flavor while helping it hold up against the syrup. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sliced bolillo or French bread on a baking sheet, making sure the slices don’t overlap.
Toast the bread slices in the preheated oven for about 15 to 20 minutes or until they are golden brown and slightly crispy. This step is essential, as the toasted bread absorbs the syrup without becoming too soggy.
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish
To prevent sticking, spray the bottom of a deep 9×9 inch baking dish with cooking spray. A 9×9 inch pan is ideal for this recipe, but you can use a slightly larger one if needed. This dish will hold all the layers of bread, syrup, and toppings.
Step 4: Layer the Ingredients
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Once the bread is toasted and the baking dish is prepared, start layering the ingredients. Begin with a layer of toasted bread slices at the bottom of the dish. Next, sprinkle a handful of raisins and peanuts over the bread. Add a layer of shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top. Repeat the layering process—bread, raisins, peanuts, and cheese—until all ingredients are used, ending with a final layer of cheese on top.
See also Easy and Fluffy Bread Recipe: Simple to Make
The syrup will help soften the bread and combine the flavors of the cinnamon, cloves, raisins, and cheese. Let the dish sit for a few minutes to allow the bread to soak up the syrup before baking.Step 6: Bake the CapirotadaPlace the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes. During this time, the cheese will melt, and the flavors will meld together. The top layer of cheese should turn golden and slightly bubbly, indicating the dish is ready.
Once baked, remove the capirotada from the oven and let it cool slightly. This dessert can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve capirotada in small portions, as it is rich and filling. A drizzle of warm syrup from the baking dish adds extra sweetness. Some people enjoy it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
