Capirotada is the Perfect Easter or Lent Dessert
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Recipe Overview
Overview
Capirotada, a delightful Mexican bread pudding, is a dish that beautifully marries sweet and savory elements. The recipe begins with tearing a loaf of French bread into pieces, which are then toasted to a golden brown. This step is crucial as it enhances the flavor and texture of the bread, making it a perfect base for the layers to come.
The syrup, made from water, unrefined cane sugar, and spices like cinnamon and cloves, adds a fragrant sweetness that seeps into the bread. The addition of apple butter not only contributes to the sweetness but also gives the dish a rich, comforting flavor. Layering the toasted bread with cheese, raisins, and fresh fruits like apples and bananas creates a colorful and flavorful combination that is both nostalgic and satisfying.
As the capirotada bakes, the flavors meld together, resulting in a warm, gooey dessert that is perfect for sharing with family and friends. It’s a dish that evokes memories of gatherings and celebrations, making it a wonderful addition to any Easter table. Whether served warm or at room temperature, capirotada is sure to be a hit with everyone, reminding us of the joy of home-cooked meals and cherished traditions.
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
Add five cups of water to a pot and set heat to medium-high.
Add two ponos of unrefined cane sugar, two large cinnamon sticks, one star anise, five whole cloves, and a bit of orange rind to the pot.
Tip: Use unrefined cane sugar for a richer flavor.
Let the syrup simmer on low heat, covered, until ready to use.
Tear one French bread loaf into pieces and place on a cookie sheet.
Toast the bread in a preheated oven at 400° for a few minutes until crispy and golden brown.
Dump 17 oz of apple butter into a bowl.
Butter the baking dish.
Tip: Butter your dish instead of using non-stick spray for better flavor.
Dip the toasted bread pieces into the apple butter and place them in the buttered dish.
Add a layer of cheese (cheddar and Monterey Jack) on top of the bread.
Sprinkle golden raisins over the cheese.
Tip: Balance salty and sweet ingredients for a better flavor profile.
Add dry roasted peanuts to the dish.
Peel and cut one golden opal apple into small pieces.
Spread the apple pieces around in the dish.
Slice a banana thinly and layer it on top.
Tip: Use a sweet and crispy apple for the best results.
Add the remaining raisins to the dish.
Pour the syrup over the layered ingredients, ensuring everything is well saturated.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350° for about 30 minutes.
Tip: Cover the dish with aluminum foil to keep it moist while baking.
Remove the capirotada from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tip: Let the capirotada cool before cutting for easier serving.
Ingredients
Ingredient: Dairy
→ Substitution: Coconut Cream
Ingredient: Nuts
→ Substitution: Sunflower Seeds
Nutrition
Skill Level
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
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Interesting Tidbits
- •Capirotada is often made during Lent and Easter in Mexican households.
- •The dish combines sweet and savory flavors, typically using bread, cheese, and fruits.
- •Apple butter is a key ingredient that adds moisture and sweetness to the dish.
- •Toasting the bread enhances its flavor and texture in the final dish.
