Sweet Tamales with cheese

Sweet Tamales (Tamales de Dulce) with cheese are a beloved Mexican dessert or breakfast dish where a sweetened, often pink-hued corn masa is filled with a piece of cheese, wrapped in a corn husk, and steamed until fluffy. The masa is typically flavored with sugar, cinnamon, and sometimes pineapple or raisins, while the cheese provides a mild, creamy contrast. They are a festive treat enjoyed throughout Mexico and in Mexican-American communities.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is primarily a source of carbohydrates from the corn masa and added sugar, with a moderate amount of fat and some protein contributed by the cheese and lard or shortening in the masa. A single tamale generally provides around 200-300 calories, along with some calcium from the cheese and iron from the corn.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	320 kcal
Protein	6 g
Carbs	52 g
Fat	12 g
Fiber	2 g
Sugar	22 g
Sodium	380 mg
Calcium	120 mg
Iron	2.5 mg
Magnesium	45 mg
Phosphorus	150 mg
Potassium	220 mg
Vitamin A	150 mcg RAE
Vitamin B1 (Thiamin)	0.2 mg
Vitamin C	3 mg

Per 1 tamale (about 150 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, the sweet tamale showcases the versatility of the tamale beyond savory fillings, often appearing during holidays like Christmas and Día de los Muertos. The unique combination of sweet, fluffy masa with a savory cheese center creates a delightful flavor and texture contrast that is a hallmark of Mexican culinary creativity.