Sweet Tamales with Cinnamon & Raisins

Tamales Dulces, also known as sweet Mexican tamales, are a delightful treat that brings comfort, warmth, and tradition to your kitchen. Unlike their savory counterparts, these tamales feature a fluffy, sugar-sweetened masa (corn dough) that’s delicately flavored with vanilla and cinnamon, and often tinted a cheerful pink. Classic fillings include plump raisins, tropical fruits, or shredded coconut, making them an ideal breakfast, snack, or festive dessert.

Typically prepared for holidays and special gatherings like Christmas, Día de los Muertos, or Las Posadas, Tamales Dulces are a beloved staple across many Mexican households. Their mildly sweet flavor and moist texture make them perfect for enjoying with a warm cup of coffee or traditional Mexican hot chocolate.

Why These Sweet Tamales Are So Special

Tamales Dulces are more than just a dessert—they’re a celebration of culture, family, and comfort food. Here are some reasons why you’ll absolutely love making (and eating) them:

• A unique take on the traditional tamale – swaps savory fillings for sweet, aromatic flavor.
• Perfect for holidays and family gatherings – a fun and colorful addition to any festive table.
• Soft, fluffy texture – thanks to whipped butter and the right masa balance.
• Highly customizable – choose from coconut, dried fruit, nuts, and more.
• Make-ahead friendly – can be refrigerated or frozen, then reheated easily.

Whether you’re introducing tamales to your family traditions or looking for a new sweet recipe to try, Tamales Dulces are guaranteed to be a hit.

Save

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Dried corn husks
• Masa harina (corn flour made specifically for tamales)
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Granulated sugar
• Unsalted butter (softened) or vegetable shortening
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Whole milk or evaporated milk
• Vanilla extract
• Ground cinnamon
• Optional: pink food coloring
• Optional fillings: raisins, shredded coconut, diced fruit, chopped nuts

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the soft, tender texture and aromatic sweetness that define Tamales Dulces. Be sure to use high-quality masa harina and fresh spices for the best results.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Soak the Corn Husks

Start by placing the dried corn husks into a large bowl of warm water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes, or until they become soft and flexible. This step ensures that the husks won’t tear during assembly and will wrap around the masa easily.

2. Make the Sweet Masa Dough

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This creaming step incorporates air, which gives the dough a soft, whipped texture.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the masa harina, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Slowly pour in the sweetened condensed milk and regular milk, followed by the vanilla extract. Stir until just combined.

Next, gradually beat the dry mixture into the butter mixture. Mix thoroughly until the dough is smooth, light, and easy to spread. If using food coloring, add a few drops of pink or your preferred color and mix well until evenly tinted.

3. Add the Fillings

Fold in your desired fillings, such as raisins, shredded coconut, or finely chopped fruit. You can even experiment with combinations like dried cranberries and nuts for an extra flavor boost.

4. Assemble the Tamales

Drain the softened corn husks and pat them dry. Take one husk and spread about 2–3 tablespoons of masa mixture into the center, spreading it into a rectangle. Leave space around the edges for folding.
Fold the sides of the husk inward so they overlap slightly, then fold up the bottom. The top can remain open.

Repeat until all the dough is used, arranging each prepared tamale seam-side in a tray until ready to steam.

5. Steam the Tamales

Fill a tamale steamer or large pot fitted with a steaming rack with a few inches of water. Arrange the tamales vertically with the open end facing upward. Cover them with extra corn husks or a clean, damp towel, and place the lid on the steamer.
Steam for 60 to 90 minutes, checking occasionally to ensure there’s enough water in the pot. Tamales are done when the masa easily pulls away from the husk and feels set yet tender.

6. Cool and Serve

Let the tamales cool for 10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps them firm up slightly and enhances their flavor. Serve warm with a cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or atole.

Recipe Timing and Yield

• Prep Time: 40–45 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours
• Yield: About 20 tamales

Flavor Variations to Try

These tamales are incredibly versatile. Consider mixing things up with one of these creative variations:

• Tropical Delight: Add diced pineapple and shredded coconut to bring a sunny, island-inspired twist.
• Chocolate Lovers: Stir cocoa powder or mini chocolate chips into the dough.
• Nutty Crunch: Add toasted chopped pecans or walnuts for texture.
• Berry Burst: Try dried cranberries or blueberries for a tangy bite.
• Vegan-Friendly: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free milk alternatives like almond or oat milk.

Storage Tips and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers:
Once fully cooled, store sweet tamales in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Instructions:
To freeze, wrap each tamale in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat:

• Steaming: Re-steam tamales for 10–15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Wrap a tamale in a damp paper towel and microwave for 1–2 minutes for a quick and easy option.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Tamales Dulces made of?
They’re sweet corn masa tamales, flavored with sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla. Raisins or other sweet fillings are often added for extra flavor.

Do I have to use pink coloring?
No, it’s purely traditional. Feel free to skip it or use another color to match your celebration theme.

What’s the texture like?
Sweet tamales are soft, moist, and a little dense—similar to a corn-based cake with a slight chew.

Can they be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! These tamales are freezer-friendly and can be made days or even weeks ahead.

Are they naturally gluten-free?
Yes! Masa harina is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure other ingredients like food coloring or extracts are also certified gluten-free if needed.

Can I skip the butter or shortening?
Yes, unsalted butter or vegetable shortening works great. For a lighter version, try using coconut oil or vegan butter.

How will I know they’re fully cooked?
When done, the masa should separate cleanly from the husk and feel set, not sticky.

Do I need a tamale steamer?
Not necessarily. A large stockpot with a steam rack or insert will do the trick just fine.

What flavors pair well with Tamales Dulces?
In addition to cinnamon and vanilla, you can try orange zest, nutmeg, almond extract, or even cardamom for a more aromatic twist.

How are they traditionally served?
Typically, sweet tamales are served warm—plain or drizzled lightly with sweetened condensed milk. They pair beautifully with café de olla or Mexican-style hot chocolate.

Final Thoughts

Tamales Dulces are a true celebration of flavor and tradition. Their warm, cinnamon-kissed aroma and soft, comforting texture make them a favorite in many households, especially around the holidays. Whether you’re serving them for a party, a holiday breakfast, or simply as a sweet afternoon treat, these delicious tamales will bring smiles with every bite.

Embrace the joy of homemade Mexican sweets with this easy and customizable Tamales Dulces recipe—where the flavor of tradition meets the sweetness of family.