Traditional Mexican Molletes Recipe

Bolillo rolls: A type of Mexican bread, similar to a baguette but shorter and softer.

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

Shredded cheese: Preferably Oaxaca or Monterey Jack, both of which melt well and add a creamy texture.

Tomato: Freshly diced to add a burst of freshness and acidity.

Avocado: Sliced to add creaminess and a rich, buttery flavor.

Jalapeño: Sliced to add a spicy kick; adjust the amount to your taste.

Salt: To enhance the flavors of all the ingredients.

Pepper: To add a bit of heat and depth to the overall flavor.

When spreading the refried beans on the bolillo halves, make sure they are evenly distributed to ensure every bite is flavorful. To achieve a perfectly melted and bubbly cheese, consider using a broiler for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. This will give the molletes a nice golden-brown finish.

• bolillo rolls - Substitute with baguette: Baguettes have a similar texture and can be easily found in most bakeries.

• refried beans - Substitute with black bean spread: Black bean spread offers a similar creamy texture and flavor profile.

• oaxaca cheese - Substitute with mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella melts well and has a mild flavor similar to Oaxaca cheese.

• monterey jack cheese - Substitute with cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese melts nicely and provides a similar creamy texture.

• diced tomato - Substitute with salsa: Salsa adds a similar fresh tomato flavor with an extra kick of spices.

• sliced avocado - Substitute with guacamole: Guacamole provides the same creamy texture and rich flavor as sliced avocado.

• sliced jalapeño - Substitute with pickled jalapeños: Pickled jalapeños offer a similar heat level and add a tangy flavor.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a similar salty flavor with an additional umami taste.

• pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper provides a similar heat level and can add a bit more spice.

• Allow the molletes to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the bread soggy.

• Wrap each mollete individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps maintain freshness and prevents them from sticking together.

• Place the wrapped molletes in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. This provides an extra layer of protection against moisture and air.

• Store the container or bag in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the molletes within 2-3 days. This keeps the ingredients fresh and safe to eat.

• For longer storage, place the wrapped molletes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. This prevents them from sticking together.

• Once frozen, transfer the molletes to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. Label with the date to keep track of their freshness.

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the molletes on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted.

• Alternatively, you can reheat in a microwave. Place the molletes on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.

• Avoid adding fresh toppings like tomato, avocado, and jalapeño before freezing. Add these ingredients fresh after reheating for the best taste and texture.

• 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 them from drying out. Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bolillo rolls are heated through.

• For a quicker option, use a toaster oven. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and place the molletes inside. Heat for about 8-10 minutes, keeping an eye on them to ensure they don't burn.

• If you're in a rush, you can use the microwave. Place the molletes on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking to see if the cheese is melted and the bolillo rolls are warm.

• For a crispy finish, use a skillet. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and place the molletes cheese-side up. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bolillo rolls are heated through.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the molletes in the basket and air fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bolillo rolls are crispy and warm.

• Oven: Used to bake the bolillo halves until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

• Baking sheet: Holds the bolillo halves while they bake in the oven.

• Spatula: Helps spread the refried beans evenly on each bolillo half.

• Cheese grater: Used if you need to shred the cheese yourself.

• Knife: Essential for slicing the avocado and jalapeño, and dicing the tomato.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing and dicing the vegetables.

• Measuring cup: Ensures you use the correct amount of refried beans and shredded cheese.

• Mixing bowl: Optional, but useful if you want to mix the diced tomato with any seasonings before topping the molletes.

• Oven mitts: Protects your hands when removing the hot baking sheet from the oven.

Preheat the oven first: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's ready when you need it.

Use canned refried beans: Opt for canned refried beans to save time on preparation.

Pre-shredded cheese: Buy pre-shredded oaxaca or monterey jack cheese to skip the shredding step.

Prep toppings in advance: Dice the tomato, slice the avocado, and jalapeño ahead of time.

Assemble on the baking sheet: Place the bolillo halves directly on the baking sheet before adding toppings to minimize cleanup.