Capirotada, a traditional Mexican bread pudding, is a cherished dish that often graces family tables during Lent, especially on Good Friday. Each bite is a delicious blend of flavors and textures, reminding many of home and cherished family gatherings. This recipe, passed down through generations, reflects the love and care that grandmothers pour into their cooking. With its layers of toasted bread, sweet syrup, and a medley of fruits and spices, Grandma’s capirotada is a delightful way to celebrate heritage and bring everyone together.
Ingredients:
- For the Syrup:
- 2 cups water
- 1 ½ cups brown sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3 cloves (optional)
- For the Capirotada:
- 6-8 slices of bolillo or French bread, lightly toasted
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Mexican cheese blend or cotija)
- ½ cup raisins
- ½ cup sliced almonds or walnuts
- 1 banana, sliced (optional)
- ½ cup shredded coconut (optional)
Instructions:
- Make the Syrup:
- In a saucepan, combine the water, brown sugar, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Reduce heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the Bread:
- Toast the bread slices until golden brown. You can do this in a toaster or on a griddle. Once toasted, cut the bread into cubes or leave whole.
- Layer the Ingredients:
- In a large baking dish, start layering the ingredients. Place a layer of toasted bread at the bottom. Drizzle with a bit of the syrup, then add a layer of cheese, raisins, nuts, and any optional fruits like banana or coconut. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
- Add the Syrup:
- Pour the remaining syrup over the top layer, ensuring everything is well-soaked.
- Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for about 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Allow the capirotada to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Tips:
- Customize the recipe with your favorite dried fruits or nuts.
- The dish can be prepared a day in advance; just reheat before serving.
This capirotada is not just a dessert; it’s a memory—a taste of tradition that brings family and friends together. Enjoy every bite.
