Introduction
Capirotada is a traditional Mexican dessert typically enjoyed during Lent, made with bread soaked in a rich syrup of piloncillo (raw cane sugar), cinnamon, and cloves. This Decadent Capirotada Cake reimagines the classic dish into a moist and flavorful cake, blending the essence of capirotada with luxurious layers of texture and taste. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this cake is sure to impress with its delightful combination of flavors.
Ingredients
For the cake:
– 2 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder
– ½ teaspoon of baking soda
– ½ teaspoon of salt
– ½ cup of unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup of granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1 cup of buttermilk
For the Capirotada syrup:
– 1 cup of piloncillo, grated (or brown sugar if unavailable)
– 1 cup of water
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 2 whole cloves
– Zest of 1 orange
– Zest of 1 lemon
For the filling:
– 1 cup of raisins
– ½ cup of chopped pecans
– 1 cup of shredded coconut (optional)
For the frosting:
– 1 cup of unsweetened whipped cream
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
6. Prepare the Capirotada syrup: In a small saucepan, combine the piloncillo, water, cinnamon stick, cloves, and citrus zests. Heat over medium until the piloncillo dissolves completely. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes, then remove from heat and let it cool.
7. Fold in the raisins, chopped pecans, and shredded coconut (if using) into the cake batter.
8. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. While the cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting by whipping the cream with the vanilla extract and powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
11. Once the cakes are completely cooled, drizzle half of the Capirotada syrup over each layer of cake, allowing it to soak in.
12. Place one cake layer on a serving platter, spread a portion of the whipped cream frosting over it, and then top with the second layer of cake. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining whipped cream.
13. Finally, drizzle any remaining Capirotada syrup over the top of the cake and garnish with additional chopped pecans or coconut, if desired.
Tips
– For a more intense flavor, you can add a splash of rum or tequila to the Capirotada syrup.
– Feel free to customize the filling by adding other dried fruits or nuts according to your preference.
– If you prefer a less sweet frosting, you can use cream cheese frosting instead.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Decadent Capirotada Cake at room temperature or slightly chilled. It pairs beautifully with a cup of Mexican hot chocolate or a strong espresso. For an added touch, serve it with a side of fresh fruit, such as sliced strawberries or oranges, to balance the richness of the cake. This cake is perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, or a delightful treat any day of the week.
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