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Tamales de Dulce (Sweet Tamales)

Tamales de dulce are a traditional Mexican sweet tamale made with corn masa, sugar, and flavored with cinnamon, raisins, and often colored pink. They are steamed in corn husks and enjoyed as a dessert or breakfast treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups masa harina
  • 2 cups warm water or milk
  • 1 cup unsalted butter or lard
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 cup raisins
  • Pink food coloring (optional)
  • Corn husks, soaked in warm water until pliable

Instructions

  1. Soak corn husks in warm water for at least 30 minutes until soft and pliable.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter or lard with the sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix masa harina, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
  4. Gradually add the warm water or milk to the masa mixture until a soft dough forms.
  5. Combine the masa dough with the creamed butter mixture until well incorporated and fluffy.
  6. Add pink food coloring and mix evenly if desired.
  7. Fold in raisins.
  8. Spread 2–3 tablespoons of masa mixture onto the center of each corn husk.
  9. Fold the sides of the husk over the masa and then fold the bottom up to secure.
  10. Arrange tamales upright in a steamer pot, cover with extra husks or a damp cloth, and steam over medium heat for 1–1.5 hours or until the masa is firm and cooked through.
  11. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • You can substitute milk with water for a lighter version.
  • Adjust sugar to taste depending on sweetness preference.
  • Serve warm with hot chocolate or coffee.

Nutrition

Keywords: tamales de dulce, sweet tamales, mexican dessert, masa, corn husk