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Healthy Authentic Capirotada Recipe

An authentic and traditional Mexican bread pudding made with bolillo bread, cinnamon-infused syrup, raisins, nuts, and melted cheese. This classic Capirotada recipe is comforting, flavorful, and perfect for Lent or any special occasion.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 –10 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups bolillo or French bread cubed
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 cup raisins
  • 1 cup shredded queso fresco or Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
  • 1/2 cup sliced almonds
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a saucepan, combine the water, brown sugar, and cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
  3. Remove the syrup from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Layer half of the bread cubes, half of the cheese, half of the raisins, and half of the chopped nuts in the baking dish.
  5. Pour half of the warm syrup evenly over the first layer.
  6. Repeat with remaining bread, cheese, raisins, nuts, and sliced almonds.
  7. Pour the remaining syrup over the top and gently press down.
  8. Bake for 30–40 minutes until golden, bubbly, and fragrant.
  9. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10–15 minutes before serving.

Notes

Day-old bread works best for this recipe. Let the Capirotada rest after baking so the layers set and slice cleanly.