Indulge in the rich flavors of Mexican chocolate with these delightful chocolate tamales. Perfect for celebrations or cozy evenings, this sweet treat brings warmth and joy to any occasion, transporting your taste buds to vibrant Mexico.
Why I Love This Recipe
I first stumbled upon this recipe at a family fiesta, where my abuela would serve these tamales wrapped in colorful corn husks. The combination of sweet chocolate and soft masa was unforgettable, and I knew I had to recreate it in my own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love It Too
- Quick and easy to prepare in just 20 minutes
- A unique twist on traditional desserts
- Perfect for sharing with family and friends
- Rich chocolate flavor satisfies every sweet tooth
- Can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature
Ingredient Notes
• Masa harina (1 cup): This is the foundation of the tamale. Look for brands like Maseca for authenticity.
• Dark chocolate (2 tablespoons): Use good quality chocolate like Ghirardelli for rich flavor.
• Sweetened condensed milk (1 pound): This creates a moist, sweet filling. Can substitute with coconut cream for dairy-free.
• Corn husks (1/2 cup): Soak in warm water for 30 minutes before use for pliability.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Melt the dark chocolate in a microwave or double boiler, then fold into the masa mixture until fully incorporated.
- Take soaked corn husks, place 2 tablespoons of the chocolate masa in the center, and fold the sides in to enclose the filling.
- Steam in a pot with water for 15 minutes, ensuring the tamales are tilted for proper steam circulation. Let cool slightly before serving.
Things I’ve Learned
• Ensure the corn husks are sufficiently soaked to prevent tearing when wrapping.
• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to a month.
• Reheating is best done by steaming for a few minutes until warmed through.
• Preparing extra tamales ahead of time can be a great way to have a delicious treat ready for gatherings.
FAQs
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Check that all ingredients are certified gluten-free, especially any processed items or seasonings.
Q: Can I substitute ingredients?
A: Yes, most ingredients can be swapped for similar alternatives.
Four-Ingredient Mexican Chocolate Tamales
Ingredients
- 1 cup masa harina
- 2 tablespoons dark chocolate
- 1 pound sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup corn husks
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine masa harina and sweetened condensed milk until a soft dough forms.
- Melt the dark chocolate in a microwave or double boiler, then fold into the masa mixture until fully incorporated.
- Take soaked corn husks, place 2 tablespoons of the chocolate masa in the center, and fold the sides in to enclose the filling.
- Steam in a pot with water for 15 minutes, ensuring the tamales are tilted for proper steam circulation.
This recipe has become a go-to favorite in my kitchen, and I hope it brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine!