Indulge in Decadent Chocolate Tamales Today
Welcome to my recipe article for delicious chocolate tamales. As a chef specializing in Brazilian and American cuisine, I am always on the lookout for innovative and mouth-watering desserts that will satisfy even the most discerning tastes. And trust me, once you try these chocolate tamales, you won’t be able to resist their decadent and rich flavor.
Tamales are a traditional Mexican delicacy typically made with masa harina, which is a type of corn flour. They are usually filled with savory ingredients such as meat or cheese, but in this recipe, we’re shaking things up by creating a sweet dessert tamale using cocoa powder and Mexican chocolate.
These chocolate tamales are an indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply looking for a satisfying dessert to enjoy after dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. And the best part? You can easily make them at home with just a handful of ingredients.
So, get ready to embark on an exciting culinary journey as we explore how to make these delectable chocolate tamales. I guarantee that once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Attention all chocolate lovers! You won’t want to miss out on this indulgent recipe for chocolate tamales. Prepare to have your taste buds blown away with the delicious blend of moist masa dough and rich chocolate.
If you’re looking for a foolproof dessert recipe that will take your dinner party to another level, then look no further than these chocolate tamales. But even if you aren’t hosting an event, you’ll love this recipe for its versatility – it’s perfect for a cozy night in or as a homemade treat for that special someone.
One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. Swap out the Mexican chocolate for white chocolate chips or dark chocolate if you prefer. Add in some cinnamon or vanilla extract to switch things up, or top with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh berries for an extra touch of luxury.
What’s more, this recipe is ideal for those who are looking for a vegan diet option. Simply replace the butter with vegan-friendly margarine and use vegan condiments like vegan chocolate chips to keep the unique flavor profile.
These tamales are also a great way to get creative in the kitchen without taking up too much time. The recipe only requires basic ingredients and can be easily created in just under an hour, including prep time!
In summary, whether you’re serving your family, hosting dinner parties or simply treating yourself, you’ll undoubtedly love this chocolate tamale recipe! It’s easy to prepare, versatile with adaptations and offers a taste that’s simply irresistible. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds deserve nothing but the best!
Ingredient List
Before starting with the recipe, it is essential to have all ingredients prepared and ready to use. Here’s a list of chocolate tamales recipe ingredients, which make approximately 1 dozen tamales.
Corn Husks:
- Dried corn husks (2 cups)
- Hot water (enough to soak the husks)
Masa Dough:
- Masa harina (3 cups)
- White chocolate chips (1 cup)
- Corn flour (1/4 cup)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/2 cup)
- Baking powder (2 teaspoons)
- Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon)
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon)
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup)
Wet Ingredients:
- Milk, 1%, 2%, or whole milk(2 cups), room temperature
- Unsalted butter (1 cup) room temperature
- Sweetened condensed milk (5 oz.)
- Mexican chocolate or dark chocolate chips, chopped (250g or 9oz.)
Make sure to double-check the ingredient list before heading to the grocery store.
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s get started with making our Chocolate Tamales! This recipe makes about 24 tamales, so it’s perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Step 1: Prepare the Corn Husks
Firstly, soak dried corn husks in hot water for about 30 minutes until they are soft and pliable. After that, pat them dry.
Step 2: Make the Masa Dough
In a large bowl, cream unsalted butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in baking powder, cocoa powder, ground cinnamon, and salt, then mix well. Gradually add in masa harina and hot water, alternating between the two, until you achieve a smooth consistency.
Step 3: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Next, fold in your choice of chocolate chips – whether it’s dark chocolate, white chocolate or even Mexican chocolate, which will give an authentic taste to your tamales. Be sure not to overmix the dough.
Step 4: Fill and Wrap the Tamales
Spread about 2 tablespoons of masa dough onto each softened corn husk. Leave enough space around the edges to allow for wrapping – about half an inch around each side. Add your desired chocolate filling, then fold both sides of the husk towards the middle, then bring up the bottom part of the husk enclosing the filling finally folding down top part of it.
Step 5: Steam Your Chocolate Tamales
Place all wrapped tamales on top of a steamer basket with folded sides facing downwards. Steam tamales over simmering water for approximately 1 hour or until cooked through.
Step 6: Ready to Serve!
Once cooked through, remove from heat and let them cool for about 10 minutes. Unwrap each tamale, and voila! Your deliciously decadent Chocolate Tamales are ready to serve! Enjoy on their own or with a side of sweetened condensed milk or whipped cream – the perfect indulgent treats for any dessert occasion.
Substitutions and Variations
When it comes to making the perfect Chocolate Tamales, you may want to switch things up and add your own unique twist to this classic recipe. Here are some substitutions and variations that will allow you to tailor your tamales recipe according to your taste preferences.
1. Vegan Tamales – For a vegan option, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative. You may also replace the milk with almond or coconut milk and opt for vegan chocolate instead of Mexican chocolate.
2. White Chocolate Tamales – Instead of using Mexican chocolate, try using white chocolate chips in the masa mixture. This variation is an excellent choice for those who prefer the creamy, sweet taste of white chocolate.
3. Cinnamon-Spiced Chocolate Tamales – If you enjoy the warming flavors of cinnamon, try adding teaspoons of ground cinnamon to your masa mixture or filling for extra spiced flavor.
4. Chocolate Chip Tamale – This variation adds extra crunch to your tamales recipe. Just sprinkle some chocolate chips over the masa dough before wrapping them in corn husks.
5. Chocolate Brownie Tamale – For a decadent twist on this classic dessert, use a brownie mix instead of masa harina for the dough mix.
6. Sweet Tamale – To give traditional savory tamales a sweeter flavor, use sweetened condensed milk instead of regular milk in your masa dough mix and then fill it with fruits such as strawberries or mangoes.
Be aware that substitution or variation choices can affect the consistency and final taste of your Chocolate Tamales. So experiment with these options until you find the combination that works best for you!
Serving and Pairing
When it comes to serving and pairing chocolate tamales, there are several options to choose from.
For those who are looking for a sweet and indulgent treat, I recommend topping the tamales with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This will help cut through the richness of the chocolate and provide a creamy contrast.
If you’re feeling daring, you could pair the tamales with a bold red wine such as Malbec or Cabernet Sauvignon. The tannins in the wine will complement the sweetness of the chocolate and enhance its flavors.
Another great option is to serve the tamales alongside traditional Mexican hot chocolate. The warm and slightly spicy drink pairs perfectly with the cinnamon-spiced chocolate filling in these tamales.
For a fun twist on dessert, you could also try crumbling up some leftover chocolate brownies and sprinkling them on top of the tamales for added texture and flavor.
No matter how you choose to serve these chocolate tamales, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The rich and decadent flavors of Mexican chocolate paired with the soft and fluffy masa creates a unique and satisfying dessert experience that is perfect for any occasion.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Once you’ve made a batch of these indulgent chocolate tamales, it’s always great to know how to preserve their texture and flavor. Fortunately, these tamales can be stored for up to three days in the refrigerator or up to three months in the freezer, providing you with an easy and convenient way to enjoy this delectable dessert again and again.
To store your chocolate tamales, simply place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and keep them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to reheat them. When reheating them, make sure they are completely defrosted if frozen, you can either steam them again for about 25 minutes if they were previously cooked or put them on a microwave safe plate, uncover and sprinkle water over the tamale then wrap with damp paper towel and microwave for about 3-4 minutes, checking halfway through.
It’s also possible to make tamales ahead of time, just store them properly until ready to be used. This makes it easier for you to prepare for the many festivities that come with sharing food with family and friends.
One important thing to note is that reheating these chocolate tamales must be done gently so as not to dry out or toughen up the masa covering. When reheated following our recommended method, they will retain their soft and moist texture, retaining all the rich flavors of cocoa and white chocolate chips that makes this recipe exceptional.
With all these storage options available, you can now confidently whip up large batches of these delectable tamales well ahead of time without worrying about sacrificing texture or taste. Whether you’re planning a weekend family gathering or simply craving for something sweet after a long day’s work, these chocolaty delights will always satisfy your cravings and leave everyone coming back for more.
Tips for Perfect Results
To make the perfect chocolate tamales, there are a few tips and tricks that you should keep in mind. Here are some of my recommendations to ensure that your tamales come out perfectly every time:
1. Use white corn husks instead of green ones: Using dry, white corn husks is the preferred option, as they are easier to work with and give a lighter color to the tamales. Make sure to soak them in hot water for at least an hour before using them.
2. Masa consistency is key: The masa dough should be soft, but not too sticky or dry. Keep a cup of warm water handy while mixing the masa harina, and add it gradually until you reach the desired consistency.
3. Choose the right chocolate: Mexican chocolate is traditionally used in chocolate tamales, but any high-quality dark or milk chocolate will work perfectly fine. Try experimenting with different types of chocolate to find your favorite!
4. Add baking powder: Adding baking powder to the masa dough will help give it a softer texture and provide more lift while cooking.
5. Don’t overfill the tamales: It can be tempting to overfill your tamales with delicious chocolate filling, but make sure to leave enough space around the edges for the dough to expand while cooking.
6. Tie your tamales securely: To prevent them from opening up during cooking, make sure to tightly secure each end of the tamale by folding it over and securing it with kitchen twine.
7. Try different variations: While this recipe calls for white chocolate chips and ground cinnamon, feel free to experiment with other flavors such as peanut butter, dulce de leche, or even a chili-spiced chocolate mixture.
8. Practice makes perfect: Making tamales can be tricky at first, but don’t get discouraged! With practice and patience, you’ll soon become a pro at making these delicious treats.
By following these tips and recommendations, you’ll be able to achieve the perfect texture, flavor, and appearance for your chocolate tamales. Have fun experimenting with variations and enjoy this indulgent dessert treat!
FAQ
Now, it’s time to address some of the most common questions you may have about this chocolate tamales recipe. I want to ensure that all your concerns are clarified so you can impress your guests with this delicious dessert. So, let’s dive into these frequently asked questions and provide you with the answers you need!
What is the secret to moist tamales?
When it comes to making delectable tamales, don’t be afraid to incorporate sufficient amounts of fat. In Mexico, lard is the conventional choice, however, you may opt for shortening or softened butter to make a vegetarian variation.
What’s the difference between Mexican and Cuban tamales?
The composition of the stuffing for tamales can vary depending on the type of cuisine. Mexican tamales are typically filled with chicken or pork, while Cuban tamales have a blend of spiced pork that is fried and mixed evenly with the dough. Mexican tamales accompany either red or green chile sauce.
What are dessert tamales made of?
A delightful Mexican treat known as sweet tamales consists of a corn masa dough that has been sweetened, filled with a blend of sugary fruit and nuts including raisins, pineapples, fruit preserves, cajeta, and dulce de leche.
What makes tamales better?
When making the masa for these scrumptious treats, it’s important to incorporate a sufficient amount of fat. You can opt for the classic lard or try other options like corn, canola, vegetable, coconut oil, or butter. To ensure the perfect texture, mix the dough until it becomes fluffy and light. This is the key to achieving that sought-after puffiness when they hit the heat. And whatever you do, don’t forget to add enough salt to the filling. This will elevate the overall taste and make it more memorable.
Bottom Line
:
Are you ready to embark on a delicious journey with chocolate tamales? I am sure this recipe will not disappoint you, and the final outcome will leave a lasting impression on your taste buds. I believe that this recipe is not only for chocolate lovers but also for those who love to experiment and try new things.
With the right ingredients and techniques, you can create a batch of mouth-watering chocolate tamales that will impress your guests or simply satisfy your sweet cravings. Whether you are looking for a traditional Mexican dessert or a new twist on an old classic, this recipe has everything you need.
By using high-quality ingredients like Mexican chocolate and masa harina, you can experience the authentic taste of chocolate tamales in every bite. And with substitutions and variations, you can customize this recipe to your liking, whether it be vegan or with white chocolate chips.
In conclusion, Chocolate tamales are an excellent choice for those who want to try something new and explore different flavors from around the world. It’s perfect for any occasion, from holiday celebrations to a simple snack at home. So why not give it a try and indulge in the deliciousness of this dessert? I promise you won’t regret it!
Chocolate Tamales Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb mexican chocolate, broken into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 cup milk
- 1 (1 1/2 lb) bag masa harina (corn flour for tortillas and tamales)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 2 cups butter, room temperature (1 pound in total)
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 30 dried corn husks (softened by soaking in warm water for 6-8 hours)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- Place chocolate in medium bowl. In small saucepan over medium-high heat, bring milk to a simmer, just short of boiling. Pour hot milk over chocolate and stir until chocolate melts. Set aside to cool.
- Mix masa harina and baking powder in large bowl of heavy duty electric mixer. With mixer on low, pour chocolate over corn flour mixture. Beat on low for 10 minutes. Set aside.
- In separate bowl of electric mixer, cream butter and sugar until pale and fluffy. Add a third of chocolate-corn flour mixture and beat on high until combined. Repeat twice with remaining thirds of chocolate-corn flour mixture; beating well after each addition. Finished mixture should be light and fluffy.
- Spread heaping tablespoon of dough in center of corn husk. Sprinkle 6 or 7 white chocolate chips on dough, then spread another tablespoon of dough over filling. Fold sides of corn husk over filling. With seam facing up, tuck top and bottom flaps under tamale and place on a cookie sheet. Repeat with remaining dough and chocolate.
- Bake in a preheated oven for 35 minutes or until tamales are firm.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Dora
Dora is a chef well-versed in Brazilian and American cuisine. After a hard day's work in the kitchen of her restaurant, she finds the time to jot down recipes for her food blog. Her recipes are sure to delight foodies everywhere, as she strives to make each one unique and enjoyable to read.