Tamales de Elote Dulces
Sweet corn tamales, a delightful dessert or snack in Costa Rica, made from fresh corn masa, sweetened with sugar and often flavored with cinnamon and vanilla, then steamed in corn husks.
🧂 Ingredients
- 6 cups Fresh corn kernels(from about 8-10 ears of corn)
- 1/2 cup Masa harina(optional, for binding if corn is not starchy enough)
- 1 cup Granulated sugar(or to taste)
- 1/2 cup Butter(melted)
- 1/4 cup Milk(or as needed for consistency)
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp Cinnamon powder
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 12-15 Dried corn husks(soaked in warm water until pliable)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
If using fresh corn, cut the kernels off the cobs. In a food processor or blender, pulse the corn kernels until a coarse masa forms. You want some texture, not a smooth puree.
💡 Tip: Alternatively, you can grate the corn off the cob for a more traditional texture. - 2
In a large bowl, combine the corn masa, sugar, melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well until thoroughly combined. If the mixture seems too wet, add the masa harina a tablespoon at a time until it reaches a thick, spreadable consistency.
💡 Tip: Taste the batter and adjust sweetness or spices as desired. - 3
Drain the soaked corn husks. Lay one husk flat and spread about 1/4 cup of the corn mixture onto the wider end of the husk, spreading it evenly.
- 4
Fold the sides of the corn husk over the filling, then fold the bottom end up to create a neat package. Tie with a strip of corn husk if needed.
💡 Tip: Ensure the tamales are not too tightly packed, as they will expand slightly during steaming. - 5
Arrange the tamales upright in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover the steamer tightly and steam for 45-60 minutes, or until the tamales are firm and cooked through.
⏱️ 45-60 minutes💡 Tip: Add a coin to the bottom of the pot to hear it rattle; if it stops rattling, the water is low. - 6
Let the tamales rest for about 10 minutes before serving. They can be served warm, directly in their husks.
⏱️ 10 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using fresh, sweet corn is key to the best flavor.
- ✓If you can't find fresh corn, frozen corn kernels can be used, but thaw them completely and drain well.
- ✓These tamales are delicious on their own, or can be served with a dollop of fresh cream or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a few raisins to the corn mixture for added sweetness and texture.
- For a richer flavor, substitute some of the milk with coconut milk.