Traditional Mexican Molletes Recipe

Bolillo rolls: A type of Mexican bread roll that is crusty on the outside and soft on the inside.

Refried beans: Cooked and mashed beans, typically pinto or black beans, that are fried with lard or oil.

Cheddar: A sharp, tangy cheese that melts well, adding a rich flavor to the dish.

Mozzarella: A mild, creamy cheese that melts smoothly, providing a gooey texture.

Pico de gallo: A fresh salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice, adding a burst of freshness and acidity.

To enhance the flavor of your refried beans, consider adding a pinch of cumin and garlic powder while heating them up. This will give the beans a deeper, more complex taste that complements the cheese and pico de gallo beautifully.

• bolillo rolls - Substitute with baguette: Baguettes have a similar texture and crust, making them a good alternative for the base of molletes.

• bolillo rolls - Substitute with ciabatta: Ciabatta's airy texture and crusty exterior can mimic the qualities of bolillo rolls.

• refried beans - Substitute with black bean spread: Black bean spread offers a similar creamy texture and rich flavor, making it a suitable replacement.

• refried beans - Substitute with hummus: Hummus provides a creamy consistency and can be flavored to match the taste profile of refried beans.

• cheddar cheese - Substitute with Monterey Jack cheese: Monterey Jack melts well and has a mild flavor, similar to cheddar.

• cheddar cheese - Substitute with queso fresco: Queso fresco offers a crumbly texture and mild taste, which can complement the other ingredients.

• mozzarella cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone has a similar melting quality and mild flavor, making it a good alternative to mozzarella.

• mozzarella cheese - Substitute with Oaxaca cheese: Oaxaca cheese has a stringy texture and mild flavor, similar to mozzarella.

• pico de gallo - Substitute with salsa: Salsa can provide a similar fresh and tangy flavor profile, though it may be more liquid.

• pico de gallo - Substitute with diced tomatoes with onions and cilantro: This combination replicates the core ingredients of pico de gallo, offering a similar taste and texture.

• Allow the molletes to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the bolillo rolls soggy.
• Wrap each mollete individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain freshness and prevent them from sticking together.
• Place the wrapped molletes in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. This will help keep them fresh and prevent any unwanted odors from seeping in.
• Store the container or bag in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the molletes within 2-3 days. For longer storage, place them in the freezer.
• To freeze, ensure the molletes are tightly wrapped and then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a resealable plastic bag or airtight container. This prevents them from sticking together.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the molletes in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• For a quicker option, you can reheat the molletes in the microwave. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. Note that the bolillo rolls may not be as crispy as when reheated in the oven.
• Top with fresh pico de gallo just before serving to maintain the vibrant flavors and textures.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover molletes on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from drying out. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and the cheese is melty again.
• For a quicker method, use a toaster oven. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and place the molletes inside for about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure the cheese melts perfectly without burning.
• If you prefer using a microwave, place the molletes on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.
• For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the molletes in the skillet, cover with a lid, and cook for about 5-7 minutes. This will help the cheese melt and the bread to become crispy again.
• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the molletes in the basket and cook for 5-7 minutes. This method will give you a crispy bread base and perfectly melted cheese.

• Oven: To preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake the molletes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

• Baking sheet: To place the bolillo rolls on for baking in the oven.

• Spatula: To spread the refried beans evenly on each half of the bolillo rolls.

• Cheese grater: To shred the cheddar or mozzarella cheese if it is not pre-shredded.

• Knife: To slice the bolillo rolls in half.

• Cutting board: To provide a safe surface for slicing the bolillo rolls.

• Measuring cups: To measure out the refried beans, shredded cheese, and pico de gallo accurately.

• Serving plate: To serve the finished molletes once they are topped with pico de gallo.

Preheat the oven: Start preheating your oven while you prepare the ingredients to save time.

Use canned beans: Opt for canned refried beans to avoid the time-consuming process of making them from scratch.

Pre-shredded cheese: Buy pre-shredded cheese to skip the grating step.

Assemble in advance: Prepare the bolillo rolls with beans and cheese ahead of time, then just bake when ready to serve.

Batch cooking: Make multiple molletes at once and store leftovers for quick reheating.