Best Easy Tamales de Anís Recipe

Sweet tamales flavored with anise seed, giving them a distinctive licorice-like aroma. These fragrant family dessert tamales offer a unique, aromatic twist on the traditional sweet tamal.

Cook 110 min Difficulty NORMAL 315 kcal
#vegetarian #dessert #family friendly
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • Masa harina 2 cups
  • Whole milk 1.25 cups
  • Unsalted butter 0.5 cups
  • Baking powder 1 tsp
  • Corn husks 16 pieces
Seasonings/Sauce
  • Sugar 0.75 cups
  • Anise seeds 2 tbsp
  • Salt 0.25 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 47 g 60%
Protein 6 g 8%
Fat 11 g 32%
Serving size 130g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Soak the corn husks in warm water for at least 30 minutes until pliable, then drain and pat dry.

  2. 2

    In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, warm the milk with the anise seeds; maintain a gentle simmer for 5 minutes to infuse, then cool slightly.

  3. 3

    In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

  4. 4

    Mix masa harina, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl, then add alternately with the anise-infused milk to the butter mixture, mixing to form a soft, hydrated dough.

  5. 5

    Spread 3 tablespoons of masa evenly down the center of each corn husk, fold sides inward and tuck bottom under, encasing the filling.

  6. 6

    Arrange tamales upright in a steamer, cover with a damp cloth, and steam over medium-low heat for 70–90 minutes, checking the water level occasionally and refilling as needed.

  7. 7

    Test doneness: masa should separate easily from the husk and feel firm but tender. Rest tamales for 10 minutes before serving warm.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in Tamales de Anís?
The essential ingredient is masa harina, which forms the foundation of the tamal's soft, doughy texture. The distinct flavor comes from anise seeds, creating the unique licorice-like aroma that sets these sweet tamales apart.
Q. How do I ensure the perfect texture and prevent soggy tamales?
Steaming tamales properly is crucial. Keep the heat at a steady medium-low and make sure the steamer never runs dry. Tamales are done when the husk peels away cleanly and the masa feels set but tender, usually after 70–90 minutes.
Q. What gives Tamales de Anís their signature aroma?
The anise seeds, simmered in milk and incorporated into the masa dough, infuse the tamales with a fragrant, licorice-like aroma that defines this dessert's identity.
Q. How many calories and how is the nutrition profile per serving?
Each serving is approximately 130g and contains about 315 kcal, with 47g carbohydrates (60% of calories), 6g protein (8%), and 11g fat (32%), making these tamales a sweet treat best enjoyed in moderation.
Q. Can these sweet tamales fit a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this Tamales de Anís recipe contains no meat or seafood—the dough is based on masa harina, milk, butter, sugar, and anise, making it suitable for a vegetarian diet.
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