Tamal de Elote (Sweet Corn Tamales)

Ingredients

• For the Tamales:
• 2 ½ cups fresh corn kernels (from about 4 ears of corn)
• 0.5 cup cornmeal or masa harina
• 0.5 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 0.25 cup milk or heavy cream
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
• 8-10 corn husks, soaked in warm water
• For Serving:
• Crema Mexicana or sweetened condensed milk
• Fresh cheese crumbles (optional)
• Cinnamon or powdered sugar (optional)

Instructions

1. 1Prepare the Corn Husks
2. 21️⃣ Soak the Corn Husks – Submerge the corn husks in warm water for 30 minutes until soft and pliable. 🌽💦
3. 3Blend the Corn Mixture
4. 42️⃣ Blend the Ingredients – In a food processor or blender, pulse fresh corn kernels, milk, butter, sugar, salt, vanilla, and baking powder until smooth but still slightly chunky. 🌽🧈
5. 5Add the Masa
6. 63️⃣ Make the Dough – Transfer the mixture to a bowl and gradually mix in cornmeal or masa harina until you get a soft, thick dough. 🌾✨
7. 7Assemble the Tamales
8. 84️⃣ Fill & Fold – Take a softened corn husk, spread 2-3 tablespoons of the mixture in the center, then fold the sides over and tuck the bottom in. Repeat until all tamales are formed. 🌽🎁
9. 9Steam the Tamales
10. 105️⃣ Cook the Tamales – Place the tamales upright in a steamer pot and steam for 45-50 minutes over medium heat until firm and cooked through. 🍲🔥
11. 11Serve & Enjoy!
12. 126️⃣ Let Cool & Serve – Allow tamales to cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with crema Mexicana, sweetened condensed milk, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a delicious treat! 🥛✨