How to Make Capirotada with Extra Pecans and Raisins

Why We Love Capirotada

Capirotada is more than just a dessert—it’s a taste of tradition, family, and cherished memories. This comforting Mexican bread pudding has been enjoyed for generations, especially during Lent, symbolizing resilience and the blending of cultures. The combination of warm spices, toasted bread, melty cheese, and crunchy nuts creates a uniquely satisfying dish. Adding extra pecans and raisins enhances the richness, making each bite even more indulgent. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or as a sweet treat the next day, Capirotada is a dessert that brings people together.

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients

• 1 piloncillo (Mexican brown sugar cone)
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 4 tablespoons brown sugar

Dry Ingredients

• 1 loaf French bread (cut into slices and toasted)
• Mozzarella cheese (for a gooey, mild layer)
• Mild cheddar cheese (adds a touch of sharpness)
• Coconut flakes (optional, for tropical flavor)
• Raisins (because more is better!)
• Walnuts (for crunch)
• Pecans (extra, for that nutty goodness)

Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Syrup

• In a medium saucepan, combine the piloncillo, cinnamon stick, vanilla extract, and brown sugar with 2 cups of water.
• Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the piloncillo melts and the syrup thickens.
• Remove from heat and set aside.

2️⃣ Layer the Ingredients

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large baking dish, create layers of toasted bread slices, sprinkling each layer with mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, coconut flakes (optional), raisins, walnuts, and pecans.
• Repeat this layering process until you use up all the ingredients, finishing with extra pecans and raisins on top for added crunch and sweetness.

3️⃣ Add the Syrup

• Slowly and evenly pour the syrup over the layered ingredients, ensuring the bread is well-soaked.
• Let it sit for a few minutes so the bread absorbs all the delicious syrup.

4️⃣ Bake

• Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the syrup is bubbling.
• Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving.

5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy

• Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy it as-is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat! 🍨🤩

Pro Tips

✅ Make It Ahead: Capirotada tastes even better the next day! Just reheat it in the oven. ✅ Spice It Up: Add a dash of ground cloves or nutmeg to the syrup for a deeper, more aromatic flavor. ✅ Add Fruits: Dried fruits like apricots or cranberries can add a unique twist.

This Capirotada with Extra Pecans and Raisins is a rich, indulgent dessert that’s both nostalgic and satisfying. A perfect combination of crunchy, gooey, and chewy textures that will leave you wanting more! 😍🎉

Who’s ready to try it? Let me know if you’d like any changes to the recipe! 🍞🍫🍮