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How to Make Chocolate Tamales | Sweet Mexican Dessert Tamales

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Chocolate Tamales

Cultural Context

Chocolate tamales are a delightful variation of traditional Mexican tamales, often enjoyed during festive occasions like Christmas and Día de los Muertos. They celebrate the rich heritage of chocolate in Mexican cuisine, blending sweet and savory flavors. Today, these tamales have gained popularity beyond Mexico, with variations appearing in many Latin American countries and even in fusion cuisine.

MexicanMXdessert
90 min
medium
12 servings
Servings4
3 cups masa harina for tamales (ex. Maseca-Nixtamalizado)
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp kosher salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup vegetable oil
1 ½ –2 cups warm whole milk, plus more if needed
4 oz Mexican chocolate (Abuelita or Ibarra if available), chopped
1 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
⅛ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for warmth)
1 tsp vanilla extract
12–14 dried corn husks, soaked in warm water for 30 minutes

masa harina

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: all-purpose flour

Whole wheat flour adds fiber while all-purpose is more accessible.

chocolate chips

🥗Healthier: dark chocolate

💰Cheaper: chocolate bar

Dark chocolate has less sugar and a richer flavor.

sugar

🥗Healthier: agave syrup

💰Cheaper: honey

Agave syrup has a lower glycemic index, while honey is often cheaper.

milk

🥗Healthier: almond milk

💰Cheaper: water

Almond milk reduces calories, while water can be used in a pinch.

1

Soak corn husks in warm water for 30 minutes until pliable.

2

In a large bowl, mix masa harina, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.

3

Add softened butter, sugar, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients; mix until smooth.

4

Gradually add warm milk until the mixture reaches a spreadable consistency.

5

Fold in chopped Mexican chocolate, ground nutmeg, and cayenne pepper (if using).

6

Scoop a portion of the masa mixture onto the center of each corn husk.

7

Fold the sides of the husk over the masa, then fold up the bottom to secure the tamale.

8

Place tamales upright in a steamer basket, ensuring they are packed tightly.

9

Steam tamales over simmering water for 1-1.5 hours, checking occasionally for doneness.

10

Remove from steamer and let cool slightly before serving.

Cooking Techniques

mixingsteamingfolding

Equipment Needed

steamerstand mixer with paddlemixing bowlsspatulasdigital kitchen scale

Spice Level:

🌶️🌶️🌶️

Dietary

vegetariangluten-free

Allergens

glutendairy

Also Known As

Tamales de Chocolate
Local Name: tamales de chocolate

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