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Turn your leftover bread into an irresistibly delicious dessert with Mexican Capirotada, a traditional bread pudding that’s both comforting and budget-friendly. Loaded with sweet spices, dried fruits, nuts, and topped with melted cheese, this dish beautifully transforms simple ingredients into a delightful treat that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home.
What Is Mexican Capirotada?
Capirotada is a Mexican bread pudding traditionally served during Lent and Easter. Made from stale bread, piloncillo syrup, dried fruits, nuts, and spices, it’s baked until golden and bubbly, then topped with cheese for an extra savory twist. Each region has its own unique take, but the comforting blend of sweet and savory flavors makes it universally loved.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these simple ingredients to prepare your Mexican Capirotada:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Stale bread | 5-6 cups, cubed | Use leftover bread like bolillos or baguettes |
| Piloncillo (or brown sugar) | 1 cup (200g) | Mexican unrefined cane sugar or substitute |
| Water | 2 cups (480ml) | For syrup |
| Cinnamon sticks | 2 | Adds warm spice |
| Cloves | 4-5 whole | Enhances flavor |
| Raisins or dried fruit | 1/2 cup (80g) | Adds sweetness and texture |
| Peanuts or almonds | 1/2 cup (70g) | Provides crunch |
| Cheese (Queso Fresco or Monterey Jack) | 1 cup shredded | Adds savory balance |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons | For greasing pan and topping |
How to Make Mexican Capirotada
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious bread pudding:
Step 1: Prepare the Syrup
- In a saucepan, combine water, piloncillo (or brown sugar), cinnamon sticks, and cloves.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until the sugar dissolves and syrup thickens slightly, about 10-15 minutes.
- Strain out the cinnamon and cloves, and set aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Pudding
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking dish with butter.
- Layer half of the bread cubes, sprinkle with half the dried fruits and nuts, then drizzle half the syrup over the layer. Repeat this layering once more.
Step 3: Bake
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle cheese evenly over the top, dot with small pieces of butter, and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Step 4: Serve
- Allow to cool slightly, then serve warm or at room temperature.
Why You’ll Love Mexican Capirotada
| Benefit | Why It Matters |
| Budget-Friendly | Uses leftovers and affordable ingredients |
| Comforting and Delicious | Warm spices and sweetness make it perfect comfort food |
| Easy to Prepare | Simple steps ideal for cooks of any skill level |
| Versatile | Easily customized with your favorite fruits and nuts |
Tips for Perfect Capirotada
- Use Stale Bread: Slightly dry or stale bread absorbs the syrup better.
- Customize Ingredients: Feel free to experiment with different dried fruits, nuts, or cheeses.
- Serve Warm: Best enjoyed warm, topped with ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Where to Find Ingredients
- Piloncillo: Available at Mexican markets or online at Amazon.
- Queso Fresco: Found at most grocery stores or specialty markets.
More Budget-Friendly Desserts to Try
- Filipino Leche Flan: A Rich and Silky Caramel Custard That’s Easy and Affordable
- Japanese Dorayaki: Fluffy Pancake Sandwiches That Won’t Break the Bank
- Vietnamese Che Chuoi: Creamy Banana Tapioca Dessert with Coconut Milk Magic
Turn Leftovers into Delicious Capirotada Today!
Mexican Capirotada transforms humble ingredients into a comforting, sweet, and savory delight. Perfect for using leftover bread and pantry staples, it’s a versatile, easy, and affordable dessert that everyone will love. Try it yourself and savor the magic of Mexican comfort food!
