Sweet Tamales
Sweet tamales offer a delightful treat with tender masa infused with buttery richness, complemented by the sweetness of pineapple and coconut. Perfect for dessert or special occasions, these moist, flavorful tamales appeal to those who enjoy tropical, sweet, and comforting flavors wrapped in traditional corn husks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Clean the corn husks thoroughly.
- Mix prepared masa with butter or margarine until well combined.
- Add pineapple with juice, coconut, and sugar to the masa mixture and stir well.
- Take 2 tablespoons of the prepared masa, flatten it in a corn husk, and add some fruit in the center.
- Roll and fold the husk to enclose the filling.
- Steam the tamales for 45 minutes until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, you can substitute half of the butter with coconut oil. If you want to reduce sugar, consider using ripe mashed bananas or a sugar alternative like agave syrup for sweetness. Ensure the masa is well-hydrated; if it feels too dry, add a little more pineapple juice. Cleaning the corn husks in warm water makes them more pliable for wrapping.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sweet tamales warm, drizzled with a bit of honey or agave syrup for added sweetness. They pair well with a side of fresh fruit or a light yogurt dip. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside Chile Con Queso for an interesting flavor contrast. They also make a delightful dessert when topped with whipped cream.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover tamales should be cooled completely and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, steam them for about 15 minutes or microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel until heated through. You can also freeze them for longer storage, up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet Tamales contains roughly 243 calories, with 2g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make sweet tamales without coconut?
Yes, you can omit the coconut if desired. You may replace it with additional fruit or nuts, such as chopped pecans or almonds, for added texture. Alternatively, you can use chocolate chips for a different flavor profile, making them even sweeter.
What can I use instead of masa?
If you don't have masa, you can use polenta or cornmeal as a substitute. However, the texture and flavor will differ slightly. To achieve a similar consistency, combine the cornmeal with water and let it soften before mixing with butter. Keep in mind that this will change the authentic taste of the dish.
How can I tell when the tamales are done cooking?
Tamales are cooked when the masa easily separates from the husk. After steaming for about 45 minutes, carefully unwrap one to check. If it sticks, steam for a few more minutes. Make sure to check the water level in the steamer to prevent burning.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).