Latin American > Mexican > Mexican Desserts

Classic Mexican Capirotada Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 loaf of French bread, sliced
- 1 cup of brown sugar
- 1 cup of water
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup of raisins
- 1/2 cup of chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup of shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup of grated Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup of grated Cheddar cheese

Special equipment needed:
- Large baking dish
- Saucepan

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, water, cinnamon stick, cloves, and nutmeg. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove the cinnamon stick from the syrup and set aside.
4. Layer half of the bread slices in the bottom of the baking dish.
5. Sprinkle half of the raisins, pecans, coconut, and both cheeses over the bread.
6. Repeat with the remaining bread slices and toppings.
7. Pour the syrup over the top of the bread and toppings.
8. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.


Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
5. Temperature:
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Serving size:
This recipe serves 8-10 people.

Nutritional information:
Calories: 320
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
Sodium: 200mg
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 35g
Protein: 7g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of bread you prefer, such as brioche or challah.
- You can substitute the raisins with dried cranberries or chopped dates.
- You can use any type of nuts you prefer, such as walnuts or almonds.
- You can omit the coconut if you don't like it.

Variations:
- You can add sliced bananas or apples to the layers for a fruity twist.
- You can use Mexican cheese, such as queso fresco or cotija, instead of Monterey Jack and Cheddar.
- You can add a layer of dulce de leche or caramel sauce for extra sweetness.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to use stale bread for this recipe, as it will absorb the syrup better.
- You can make the syrup ahead of time and store it in the fridge until ready to use.
- If the top of the capirotada is browning too quickly, cover it with foil again.

Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the capirotada in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the capirotada in individual bowls or on a large platter for sharing.

Garnishes:
You can garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream.

Pairings:
This dessert pairs well with a cup of Mexican hot chocolate or coffee.

Suggested side dishes:
This dessert is usually served on its own, but you can serve it with a side of fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the capirotada is too dry, you can add more syrup or a drizzle of honey.
- If the capirotada is too wet, you can bake it for a few more minutes to evaporate some of the liquid.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to store leftovers in the fridge and reheat them thoroughly before eating.

Food history:
Capirotada is a traditional Mexican dessert that dates back to the colonial era. It is typically served during Lent and Holy Week.

Flavor profiles:
This dessert is sweet and spicy, with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the capirotada as a dessert after a Mexican-themed meal.

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Region: Mexican

Taste: Sweet, Spicy, Nutty, Cinnamon, Syrupy, Cinnamon-Y