Description
Capirotada is a traditional Mexican bread pudding made with layers of toasted bolillo, piloncillo syrup, raisins, cheese, and spices — a beloved Lenten dessert that’s sweet, savory, and rich in heritage.
Ingredients
Scale
- Bolillo rolls (or French baguette), sliced into ½-inch rounds
- Butter (for toasting bread)
- Piloncillo Syrup:
- 4 cups water
- 2 sticks Mexican cinnamon (canela)
- 4–5 whole cloves
- 8 ounces piloncillo (or dark brown sugar)
- Layering & Toppings:
- Shredded cheese (Colby, Longhorn cheddar, or queso Oaxaca)
- Raisins
- Optional: Nuts (pecans, peanuts, almonds), fruits (banana slices, prunes, mango), colored sprinkles
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Slice bolillo rolls into ½-inch rounds. Lightly butter both sides. Toast in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes per side until dry and golden.
- Make the Piloncillo Syrup: In a saucepan, combine 4 cups water, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and piloncillo. Bring to a boil, then simmer uncovered for 20 minutes until the syrup thickens. Strain and set aside.
- Layer the Ingredients: In a greased baking dish, create layers in the following order: toasted bread, raisins, shredded cheese, and a ladle of syrup. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used. Let sit 15 minutes after each syrup layer to absorb flavors.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes. Uncover and bake another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Serve: Serve warm for best flavor, or enjoy at room temperature or chilled.
Notes
Traditional during Lent, capirotada blends sweet and savory. Customize with dried fruits, nuts, or even sprinkles for festive color. Use queso Oaxaca for an authentic Mexican flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 25mg