Indulge in the rich flavors and comforting warmth of Capirotada, a traditional Mexican bread pudding that transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable dessert! Perfect for Lent, this delightful dish combines the sweetness of brown sugar, the warmth of spices, and the heartiness of bolillo bread, creating a mouthwatering treat that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you're looking to honor a cherished tradition or simply want to impress your family and friends with a unique dessert, this recipe is your ticket to culinary bliss. Dive into the world of Capirotada and discover how to make this deliciously satisfying dish that will leave your taste buds dancing!
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bolillo bread, sliced
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.
- In a medium saucepan, combine brown sugar and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes to create a syrup. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Slice the bolillo bread into 1/2-inch thick pieces. If the bread is fresh, lightly toast the slices in the oven for 5-7 minutes to help them absorb the syrup better.
- Layer the bread slices in the prepared baking dish, creating an overlapping pattern. Between each layer, sprinkle raisins, chopped nuts, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves.
- Pour the warm sugar syrup evenly over the bread layers, ensuring each slice gets saturated. Let the bread sit for 5 minutes to absorb the syrup completely.
- Drizzle melted butter over the top of the bread layers. If using, sprinkle shredded cheese on the top layer.
- Pour milk gently over the entire dish to add moisture and help bind the ingredients.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. Capirotada can be served warm or at room temperature.
- Optional: Serve with a drizzle of additional syrup or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bread: For the best texture and flavor, use bolillo bread or any crusty white bread. If you can, let the bread sit out overnight to dry slightly, as this will help it absorb the syrup better.
- Layering is Key: When layering the bread, alternate with raisins and nuts to ensure every bite is filled with flavor. Feel free to mix in other dried fruits like apricots or cranberries for added variety.
- Customize Your Spices: While cinnamon and cloves are traditional, don’t hesitate to experiment with nutmeg or allspice for a unique twist. Adjust the spices to your personal taste for a customized flavor profile.
- Serve It Warm: Capirotada is best enjoyed warm. Consider serving it with a drizzle of warm syrup or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to elevate the experience.
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Capirotada can be reheated in the oven or microwave, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
