During the festive Christmas season in Mexico, one of the most beloved traditions is making Tamales Dulces, or Sweet Tamales. These delightful treats are a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, wrapped in corn husks for a unique presentation. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of Mexican flair to your holiday baking or simply craving something different, these Tamales Dulces are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So, let’s get started on creating these delicious Mexican Christmas goodies.
**Tamales Dulces Sweet Tamales**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups masa harina
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– Corn husks, soaked in warm water
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Masa:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the masa harina with warm water to form a soft dough. Let it rest for about 15 minutes to hydrate the corn flour.
2. **Make the Sweet Filling:** In another bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the baking powder, salt, raisins, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Mix well to combine.
3. **Combine Masa and Filling:** Gradually add the sweet filling mixture to the masa dough, mixing thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the ingredients. Slowly pour in the warm milk and continue mixing until a smooth, spreadable consistency is achieved.
4. **Assemble the Tamales:** Take a soaked corn husk and spread a thin layer of the masa mixture onto the center of the husk, leaving some space on the edges. Fold the sides of the husk over the filling, then fold up the bottom to enclose the tamal. Repeat this process with the remaining husks and masa mixture.
5. **Steam the Tamales:** Arrange the tamales upright in a steamer pot, stacking them if necessary. Fill the bottom of the pot with water, making sure the tamales don’t touch the water. Cover the pot with a lid and steam the tamales for about 1.5 to 2 hours over medium heat, adding more water as needed.
6. **Check for Doneness:** To test if the tamales are ready, carefully remove one from the pot and let it cool slightly. The masa should be firm and easily peel away from the husk. If it still feels wet, continue steaming for a bit longer.
7. **Serve and Enjoy:** Once fully cooked, allow the tamales to cool slightly before serving. Unwrap the husks and present these delicious Sweet Tamales on a platter. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, sprinkled with a bit of extra cinnamon for garnish.
These Tamales Dulces are a delightful addition to any Christmas spread, offering a unique twist on traditional Mexican flavors. The combination of sweet fruits, nuts, and warming spices enveloped in a soft corn masa shell is sure to delight your taste buds and provide a taste of holiday cheer. So, gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the process of making these festive Sweet Tamales together. Happy baking and feliz Navidad!
