Tres Leches Capirotada is a fun twist on the classic bread pudding. It’s made with layers of sweet bread, soaked in three kinds of milk for that creamy goodness, topped with cinnamon and raisins.
This dessert is like a hug on a plate! I love making it for family gatherings. It’s super easy, and I always catch everyone sneaking seconds. Trust me, it’s that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bolillo Bread: This crusty bread is important for texture. If you can’t find bolillo, use French bread or a sturdy white bread. Just avoid airy breads, as they won’t hold up as well.
Evaporated Milk: Adds creaminess and depth. You can substitute it with coconut milk for a dairy-free version, which adds a unique flavor.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This ingredient provides sweetness and richness. If you’re looking for a lower-sugar option, use a homemade version using almond milk and sugar-free sweeteners.
Nuts: I enjoy slivered almonds for their mild flavor, but chopped pecans work well too. If you have nut allergies, consider using pumpkin seeds instead.
Cinnamon: It’s essential for flavor! If you want to switch things up, try nutmeg or allspice, but keep the amount similar to maintain the flavor balance.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Soaked Bread?
The magic of Tres Leches Capirotada comes from soaking the bread properly. You want each slice saturated but not falling apart. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by whisking the milk mixture until frothy, combining all liquids seamlessly.
- Carefully pour the mixture over the bread slices, letting it soak for a few moments.
- To ensure even soaking, gently press down on the bread after pouring the milk mixture. This helps get the edges soaked, too.
- Letting it sit for 10-15 minutes is key! This allows the bread to absorb the flavors and gives it that custardy texture.
How to Make Tres Leches Capirotada
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Capirotada:
- 1 loaf of bolillo bread or similar bread, sliced (about 12 slices)
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds or chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 2 tbsp butter, for greasing
- Additional nuts and coconut flakes for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Tres Leches Capirotada will take about 15 minutes for prep and 35 minutes for baking. Overall, you should set aside about an hour for the whole process, including some cooling time before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, grab a baking dish and grease it with the butter. This will help prevent sticking when you bake your capirotada.
2. Arrange the Bread Slices:
Next, take your sliced bolillo bread and arrange it in the greased baking dish. You can overlap the slices a bit if needed to make sure everything fits nicely.
3. Mix the Milks and Eggs:
In a large bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Mix it well until everything is fully combined — this is the creamy goodness that will soak into the bread!
4. Pour and Soak:
Now, pour the milk mixture evenly over the arranged bread slices. Make sure all the bread is soaked well. Let the mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes so the bread can absorb all that lovely milk.
5. Add Toppings:
After the bread has soaked, sprinkle the raisins and nuts evenly over the top. If you like a bit of extra sweetness, feel free to add the brown sugar on top as well!
6. Bake the Capirotada:
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 30-35 minutes. It’s ready when the top is golden brown and the custard is set. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, take it out of the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. If you want to make it extra special, you can garnish it with more nuts and some coconut flakes. Serve it warm or at room temperature, and drizzle any leftover milk mixture from the baking dish on top if desired. Enjoy your delightful Tres Leches Capirotada!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While bolillo bread is traditional, you can also use French bread, challah, or even brioche for a richer flavor. Just ensure it’s slightly stale to help it soak up the milk mixture without falling apart.
What If I Don’t Have Evaporated Milk?
If you don’t have evaporated milk, you can make your own by simmering 2 ½ cups of regular milk down to about 1 cup. Alternatively, you can substitute it with an equal amount of whole milk, but the texture may be slightly less creamy.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free bread in place of the bolillo. Ensure that all other ingredients, especially the condensed milk, are also gluten-free. This will still give you a delicious Tres Leches Capirotada!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can enjoy it cold, or reheat it gently in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry. It’s equally delicious warm or cold!
