Sweet Tamales
Soft, sweet corn masa steamed in a corn husk — a simple, comforting treat that's surprisingly easy to make at home.
- Total time
- 40 min
- Servings
- 6
- Calories
- 180
- Protein
- 2g

Ingredients
6 items — tap to check off
Missing one? Custrd suggests a swap that works.
Open the appInstructions
Step 1
Soak 6 corn husks in hot water for 20 minutes, until pliable. Drain and pat dry.
Step 2
In a bowl, beat 1/4 cup butter and 1/4 cup brown sugar until fluffy. Add 1 cup masa harina, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 3/4 cup warm water; mix until smooth.
Step 3
Spread about 2 tablespoons of masa onto the center of each husk, leaving a 1-inch border. Fold the sides over and fold up the bottom to enclose.
Step 4
Place tamales upright in a steamer basket. Steam over 2 inches of water, covered, for 20 minutes, until the masa is firm and pulls away from the husk.
Step 5
Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Unwrap and enjoy warm.
Tools you’ll need
- steamer basket
- large pot with lid
- mixing bowl
- spatula
Cook smarter
Get matched recipes for what’s in your fridge
Custrd is an iPhone and Android app that finds real recipes from the ingredients you already have. No more grocery-list aspirations. Try it free for 7 days.



