Here’s a comforting recipe for Grandma’s Capirotada, a traditional Mexican bread pudding often made during Lent. This delicious dessert combines toasted bread, syrup, spices, nuts, and cheese, creating a unique, sweet, and savory flavor combination.
Grandma’s Capirotada Recipe
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Skill Level: Easy
Servings: 6-8
Ingredients
- 1 loaf bolillo bread (or French bread), sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
- 1 1/2 cups brown sugar (or piloncillo, if available)
- 2 cups water
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 cloves
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or peanuts
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (such as queso fresco or Monterey Jack)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Optional: sliced bananas or apple (for added flavor)
Instructions
- Toast the Bread:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the bread slices on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5-10 minutes, or until they’re dry and slightly golden.
- Make the Syrup:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, water, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until it thickens slightly. Remove the cinnamon stick and cloves.
- Layer the Capirotada:
- In a greased baking dish, layer the toasted bread slices. Sprinkle raisins, chopped nuts, and cheese over the bread.
- Drizzle a portion of the syrup over the bread layer. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a final drizzle of syrup.
- Bake:
- Pour the melted butter over the top layer. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the flavors are well combined.
- Serve:
- Let the capirotada cool slightly before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 13g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 170mg
Grandma’s Capirotada is a sweet, hearty, and flavorful dessert with layers of textures and spices. Perfect for a comforting treat, especially during the Lenten season. Enjoy!