Capirotada (Mexican Bread Pudding)

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Capirotada is a dessert that is deeply rooted in Mexican culture, especially enjoyed during the Lenten season. This bread pudding is not only incredibly flavorful, but also filled with rich textures. The combination of toasted bread, creamy milk mixture, gooey cheese, and the pop of raisins and almonds creates a mouthwatering treat that is both indulgent and comforting. If you’re looking to try something different from traditional bread puddings, this is a must-try dessert that’s full of flavor and tradition!

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp butter for greasing pan
• 6 large bolillo bread rolls (See Note 1)
• 4 cups whole milk
• 8 oz cone piloncillo or 1 ¼ cup dark brown sugar (See Note 2)
• 6 whole cloves
• 4 cinnamon sticks
• 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
• 12 oz evaporated milk
• 2 tsp vanilla
• 2 large bananas, sliced into rounds (See Note 3)
• 1 cup raisins
• ½ cup sliced almonds
• 2 cups Oaxaca cheese or Monterey Jack or Mozzarella, shredded

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the bottom and sides of a 9×13-inch baking dish (or a dish that’s slightly larger) with butter. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Bread: Cut the bolillo bread rolls into slices using a serrated knife. Then, cube the bread into 8-10 pieces per roll. Spread the cubed bread on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 5 minutes until they are slightly crispy and dried out. Remove from the oven and set aside.
3. Prepare the Milk Mixture: In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the whole milk, piloncillo (or dark brown sugar), cloves, and cinnamon sticks. Stir frequently and bring the mixture to a slight boil (just until bubbles form on the edges). Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 10 minutes. Occasionally stir to help the piloncillo dissolve.
4. Finish the Milk Mixture: Remove the saucepan from heat and discard the cinnamon sticks and cloves. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract. Set the mixture aside.
5. Assemble the Capirotada: Spread half of the toasted bread in a single layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top the bread with half of the banana slices, raisins, sliced almonds, and shredded cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
6. Pour the Milk Mixture: Carefully pour the sweetened milk mixture evenly over the layers of bread and toppings. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes to allow the top to become golden and slightly crisp.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven, let it cool for 5 minutes, and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Fruit Variations: Add pineapple chunks for an extra fruity twist. You can use fresh pineapple or canned (drained). About 2 cups would be perfect.
• Nut Variations: In addition to almonds, you can use other nuts like walnuts or pecans for a different flavor.
• Cheese Options: While Oaxaca cheese is traditional, you can substitute with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Mozzarella, depending on your preference.
• Spice Variations: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger for a different warm spice flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storing: Store leftover Capirotada in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm it in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.
• Freezing: Capirotada can be frozen for up to 1 month. Let it cool completely before freezing. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F for 20-30 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use any type of bread for this recipe?

Traditionally, bolillo bread is used, but you can also use French bread or any slightly dense bread that will hold up when soaked in the milk mixture.

What is piloncillo, and can I substitute it?

Piloncillo is a raw, unrefined sugar typically sold in cone form and is commonly used in Mexican desserts. If you can’t find piloncillo, dark brown sugar is a suitable substitute.

Can I make Capirotada ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. Just bake it before serving.

Can I make this recipe without cheese?

While cheese is a key ingredient in Capirotada, you can omit it for a simpler version. However, the cheese adds a creamy and savory component that balances the sweetness of the dessert.

Can I add more fruits?

Yes! Besides bananas and pineapple, you can add other fruits like apples or pears for a different texture and flavor.

What kind of cheese is best for Capirotada?

Oaxaca cheese is the most traditional, but Monterey Jack or Mozzarella also works well due to their mild flavor and meltability.

Can I use canned milk instead of evaporated and condensed milk?

Evaporated and sweetened condensed milk both add rich creaminess to Capirotada, so substituting with regular canned milk may alter the texture and flavor.

Can I make this dessert vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute the milk with coconut milk or almond milk and use a dairy-free sweetened condensed milk alternative. Omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute.

Can I freeze this dessert?

Yes, you can freeze Capirotada after baking. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze. Reheat in the oven before serving.

Is Capirotada a dessert for any specific holiday?

While it’s popular during Lent in Mexico, Capirotada is a delicious dessert that can be enjoyed year-round for any occasion!

Conclusion

Capirotada (Mexican Bread Pudding) is a deliciously unique dessert that blends sweet and savory flavors with a comforting, pudding-like texture. The combination of toasted bread, bananas, raisins, almonds, and melted cheese is truly irresistible. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply want to enjoy something different, this traditional Mexican dessert is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it!

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