Indulge in Sweet Tamale: Blackberry Cheesecake Recipe

Key Highlights

• This recipe combines a classic tamale with a decadent blackberry cheesecake filling.
• The addition of Jubes coconut gel introduces a fun, chewy texture to the dessert.
• A soft, sweet masa perfectly encases the creamy filling and tart jam.
• Learn how to make one of the best dessert recipes for a fun fusion of flavors.
• This tasty treat is a modern take on a beloved traditional food.
• Discover how these unique ingredients create an unforgettable tamale experience.

Introduction

Have you ever wanted to try a dessert that blends traditional food with modern creativity? This sweet blackberry cheesecake tamale recipe is the perfect answer. Moving beyond the savory tamale pie, this version transforms the beloved dish into the most exciting Mexican dessert you'll ever make. It takes the comforting, familiar elements of tamale and fills them with the decadent flavors of cheesecake and fruit, creating a truly unique and memorable treat for any occasion.

What is Sweet Blackberry Cheesecake with Jubes Tamale?

This dessert is a creative evolution of traditional sweet tamales. It features a soft corn masa dough filled with a rich cream cheese mixture, a tart homemade blackberry jam, and chewy pieces of Jubes, a popular coconut jelly. This combination elevates Mexican cuisine by blending familiar dessert flavors into a classic format.

The blackberries provide a tart contrast to the rich, creamy cheesecake, while the Jubes coconut gel adds a surprising and delightful chewiness. Wrapped in a corn husk and steamed, the final result is a warm, moist, and flavorful dessert that harmoniously combines different textures and tastes.

Origins and History of Tamale in Latin America

The history of the tamale is ancient, originating in Mesoamerica as early as 8000 to 5000 BCE. Civilizations like the Aztec, Maya, Olmec, and Toltec from the region of modern-day Mexico relied on tamales as a portable and nourishing food source. They were perfect for armies, hunters, and travelers on long journeys.

Beyond their practical use, tamales held significant cultural and spiritual value. Corn was central to the identity of these peoples, and the tamale was often seen as a sacred food of the gods, playing a vital role in rituals and festivals. This deep connection cemented the tamale as a cornerstone of Mexican cuisine. 

This long history has allowed the tamale to evolve into countless variations, from savory to sweet, like the fruit-filled tamales that inspired desserts such as chongos zamoranos. The dish spread throughout the Americas, with each culture adding its own unique spin, but its roots remain firmly planted in early Latin American history.

How Sweet Tamales Became a Modern Favorite

Sweet tamales are becoming a popular modern twist on a classic dish because they offer a delightful fusion of tradition and innovation. While savory tamales are a staple, the sweet versions provide a new way to enjoy this beloved food, transforming it into one of people's favorite desserts. The versatility of the masa dough makes it a perfect canvas for a wide array of sweet fillings.

This creativity has turned sweet tamales into a trendy and exciting dessert category. They can be a light breakfast treat with coffee or a decadent dessert after meal. This adaptability, combined with an endless potential for new flavor combinations like those using coconut candy, ensures they remain one of the best dessert options for any occasion.

What Makes the Sweet Blackberry Cheesecake Tamale Unique

The Sweet Blackberry Cheesecake Tamale stands out from traditional tamales due to its inventive and decadent filling. Instead of the usual savory meat or simple fruit fillings, this version features a rich, creamy cheesecake mixture that mimics the popular desserts. This unexpected filling transforms the tamale into a truly unique and tasty treat.

The combination of flavors is another key difference. A homemade blackberry jam adds a tart and fruity element that beautifully cuts through the richness of the cheesecake. This is further enhanced by the inclusion of chewy Jubes, which come in flavors like grape and add a fun, surprising texture that you wouldn't find in a classic tamale.

The Role of Jubes Nata de Coco in Tamales

Jubes, a brand of nata de coco, plays a special role in this tamale recipe by adding a unique textural element. Nata de coco is a chewy coconut gel made from the fermentation of coconut water. This process creates a firm, springy jelly that is then cut into small coconut jelly cubes.

In this dessert, the Jubes candy provides a delightful contrast to the soft masa and creamy cheesecake filling. Their subtle sweetness and satisfying bounce make every bite more interesting. While tamales are traditionally known for their soft texture, the addition of Jubes introduces a modern, playful chewiness.

What are the Essential Ingredients?

To create the delicious blackberry cheesecake tamales, you'll need a few key components. The foundation is a sweet masa dough made from masa harina. Let's look at the specific ingredients you'll need for each part of this dessert.

Ingredients for Blackberry Cheesecake with Jubes Tamale

This recipe is broken down into three main parts: the masa, the blackberry jam, and the cream cheese filling.

Masa Dough

Ingredient	Amount
Unsalted butter, room temperature	1 stick + 1 tbsp (125 g)
Masa harina	4 cups
White sugar	½ cup
Baking powder	2 tsp
Whole milk	3 to 4 cups

Blackberry Jam

Ingredient	Amount
Fresh blackberries	2⅔ cups, divided
White sugar	⅓ cup
Lemon juice	3 tbsp
Cornstarch	1 tbsp
Vanilla extract	1 tsp

Cheesecake Filling with Jubes

Ingredient	Amount
Full fat cream cheese, room temperature	3 packs (8 oz each)
Sugar	1 cup
Vanilla extract	1 tsp
Lemon zest	1 tsp
Salt	¼ tsp
Jubes Grape, drained and chopped	¾ cup

 

How Do You Make Blackberry Cheesecake Tamales?

Making these delicious tamales is a fun, multi-step process that is well worth the effort. The following sections will guide you through each step.

Make the Cream Cheese Filling

Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the cream on high speed for about 8 minutes until very smooth and fluffy. Add the sugar and continue mixing for another 2 minutes until light and creamy. Mix in vanilla extract, lemon zest, and salt until fully combined. Gently fold in the chopped Jubes Grape so they are evenly distributed through the filling. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag and set aside.

Prepare the Masa

The heart of any tamale is the masa, and for these sweet Mexican desserts, you want it to be light and creamy. Soak corn husks in hot water for at least 10 minutes until flexible. Meanwhile, beat the butter on high speed until pale and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Gradually add the sugar and continue mixing until smooth. Switch to a paddle attachment, then sift in the masa harina and baking powder. Slowly pour in 3 cups of milk and mix until a soft, creamy dough forms. Add more milk if needed. The masa should be airy, moist, and easy to spread.

Assembling and Filling Each Tamale

 Now it's time to assemble your tamales. Drain and pat dry the corn husks. Lay one husk flat with the wide end closest to you. Spread a thin layer of masa over the center, leaving the narrow end uncovered. Pipe about 2 ounces of the cheesecake filling with Jubes onto the masa, then spoon 1 tablespoon of blackberry jam on top. Fold the sides inward and fold the bottom up. Tie with a strip of husk if needed to secure.

Steam the Tamales

The final cooking step is to steam the tamales until the masa is perfectly cooked. Prepare a large steamer pot by filling it with a few inches of water below the steamer basket. Bring the water to a simmer over medium-high heat. Cover and steam over medium-high heat for 75 to 90 minutes. The tamales are done when the husk pulls away easily from the masa. Remove from heat and let them rest for at least 15 minutes before serving. The texture will firm up as they cool.

How Should The Tamales Be Served?

These delicious tamales are best served warm, allowing the creamy cheesecake filling to be soft and luscious. After they have rested, you can serve them immediately for the best dessert experience. Simply unwrap the corn husk, which can also be used as a natural plate. To enhance their flavor and presentation, consider adding a drizzle of leftover blackberry jam on top. They are a perfect way to satisfy your tropical cravings and a fantastic conclusion to any meal, especially one featuring Mexican cuisine.

For storage, allow the tamales to cool completely before wrapping them individually in plastic wrap or placing them in an airtight container. 

• They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days.
• To reheat, you can steam them for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, wrap a tamale in a damp paper towel and microwave for 1-2 minutes.
• These tamales also freeze well for up to three months.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Sweet Blackberry Cheesecake Tamales with Jubes are not just a delightful treat but also a testament to the rich culinary traditions of Latin America. They beautifully combine the creamy texture of cheesecake with the unique flavor of blackberries, enhanced by the chewy goodness of Jubes. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to indulge in something sweet, these tamales are sure to impress. Don't hesitate to gather your friends and family for a fun-filled cooking session to create this delicious dish together. For any further assistance or to explore more delightful recipes, feel free to reach out. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Jubes coconut gel and how are they used in desserts?

Jubes are a type of nata de coco, a chewy coconut gel made from fermented coconut water. These coconut jelly cubes, also known as Jubes candy, are used in desserts to add a fun, springy texture and subtle sweetness. This jelly nata de coco is a great addition to drinks, fruit salads, and baked goods.

Can sweet tamales be made as a family or group activity?

Yes, making sweet tamales is an excellent group activity. The process of preparing the fillings, spreading the masa, and wrapping each tamale can be shared among family and friends. It's a fun and social way to create one of your favorite desserts and can be a memorable part of holiday gatherings or special dinner ideas.

Are there variations to this recipe using other fruits or fillings?

Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile. You can easily substitute the blackberries with other fruits like mango or strawberry. Similarly, you can use different flavors of Jubes coconut cubes jelly, such as lychee or grape, to create new flavor combinations for your unique take on Mexican desserts.

Who brought nata jelly to the U.S.?

The availability of nata jelly in the U.S. is largely thanks to importers and distributors. Companies like Jans Enterprises Corp play a key role in bringing this popular coconut jelly, in the form of Jubes coconut gel cubes, to retailers across the country.

What is Jans Enterprises Corp?

Jans Enterprises Corp is a leading importer and distributor of Southeast Asian foods in the United States. They are the company that makes Jubes jelly and other delicious traditional flavor products widely available, helping consumers find "nata de coco near me" and satisfy their tropical cravings at stores nationwide.