Name: Tlacoyos Stuffed Masa Cakes: Make 4 amazing cakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: For the Masa: 2 cups nixtamalized masa; For the Filling: 1 cup mashed beans, 1 cup fava beans, 1 cup spicy chorizo, 1 cup sautéed vegetables; For the Cheese: 1 cup requesón or queso fresco; For the Toppings: 1 cup nopales, 1 cup salsa, 1/4 cup cilantro; For Cooking: 2 tablespoons oil

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Tlacoyos Stuffed Masa Cakes are truly a revelation, a simple yet profound taste of Mexico that I fell in love with years ago. The first time I tried an authentic tlacoyos recipe from a street vendor in Oaxaca, I was captivated by the warm, slightly crisp exterior giving way to a tender, flavorful filling. The aroma of toasted masa and savory beans was intoxicating! These delightful corn masa cakes are more than just food; they’re a piece of history, a testament to the ingenuity of traditional Mexican cuisine. I can’t wait for you to experience them, too. Let’s get cooking!

What are Tlacoyos?

So, what are tlacoyos? These incredible oval-shaped masa cakes are a cornerstone of Mexican street food culture, deeply rooted in pre-Hispanic traditions. They are essentially thick, handmade corn masa patties that are stuffed with a variety of delicious fillings before being cooked on a hot comal. Their versatility is truly amazing; you can fill them with mashed beans, fava beans, cheese, or even vegetables.

I find that these traditional Mexican masa cakes offer such a satisfying experience, with a delightful contrast between the slightly crisp exterior and the warm, savory interior. They’re a testament to simple ingredients transformed into something truly special, making them a perfect meal or snack.

Why You’ll Love This Tlacoyos Stuffed Masa Cakes Recipe

You’re going to adore making and eating these tlacoyos for so many reasons:

Incredible Flavor: The combination of masa, savory fillings, and fresh toppings is simply divine.
Quick to Prepare: With a prep time of just 20 minutes, this is an easy tlacoyos recipe perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy & Wholesome: Naturally gluten-free and packed with fiber from the masa and beans, they’re a guilt-free indulgence.
Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, inexpensive ingredients, these are a fantastic way to eat well without breaking the bank.
Family Approved: Even picky eaters will love customizing their own tlacoyos with their favorite fillings and toppings.
Perfectly Vegetarian: This is a wonderful vegetarian tlacoyos recipe that satisfies everyone, whether they’re vegetarian or not.
Authentic Taste: You’ll get that true taste of Mexico right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients for Authentic Tlacoyos Recipe

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to mastering these delightful Mexican masa cakes. For the masa itself, you’ll need 2 cups nixtamalized masa, which is the key to that authentic flavor and texture. I always add a tiny pinch of salt to the masa before kneading.

For the Masa

The foundation of our masa cakes stuffed with beans is the masa. Make sure it’s nixtamalized for the best results. If it feels a bit dry, just moisten your hands with water while working with it.

For the Filling Options

This is where you get to play! I love having a few options ready. Have 1 cup mashed beans (refried beans work great!), 1 cup fava beans (cooked and lightly mashed), or even 1 cup spicy chorizo (cooked and crumbled) on hand. For a lighter touch, 1 cup sautéed vegetables like zucchini and corn are fantastic. These provide the heart of our tlacoyos ingredients and instructions.

For the Cheese

A sprinkle of cheese adds richness. I usually have about 1 cup requesón or queso fresco ready to go. It crumbles beautifully over the warm cakes.

For the Toppings

Don’t forget the finishing touches! I always prepare 1 cup nopales (cooked and chopped), 1 cup salsa (your favorite kind!), and a handful of 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped. These elevate the whole dish.

For Cooking

You’ll just need 2 tablespoons oil for cooking on your comal or skillet.

How to Make Tlacoyos Stuffed Masa Cakes

Now for the fun part – bringing these amazing Mexican masa cakes to life! Learning how to make tlacoyos is simpler than you think, and the results are so rewarding. Follow these steps and you’ll be enjoying homemade tlacoyos in no time.

Prepare the Masa

Step 1: Start with your masa. In a bowl, combine 2 cups nixtamalized masa with a pinch of salt. Knead it gently with your hands until it becomes smooth and pliable, almost like soft playdough. If it feels too dry, just dampen your fingers with a little water and continue kneading. Divide the masa into about four equal portions, rolling each into a ball.

Create the Fillings

Step 2: While the masa rests for a minute, prepare your chosen filling. Whether you opt for 1 cup mashed beans, lightly mashed 1 cup fava beans, crumbled 1 cup spicy chorizo, or 1 cup sautéed vegetables, make sure they are cooled before you use them. This step is crucial for easy handling.

Shape the Tlacoyos

Step 3: Take one masa ball and flatten it into a disk, about 4-5 inches in diameter. You want the edges to be slightly thinner than the center. Create a small indentation in the middle of the disk with your thumb or finger. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of your prepared filling into this indentation. Carefully fold the masa edges up and over the filling, pinching them together to seal. Gently flatten the filled masa into an oval shape, about ½ inch thick. This is how you’ll prepare tlacoyos for cooking.

Tlacoyos Stuffed Masa Cakes: Make 4 amazing cakes - Tlacoyos Stuffed Masa Cakes - additional detail

Cook the Tlacoyos

Step 4: Heat a comal or a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons oil. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place 2-3 shaped tlacoyos onto the hot surface. Cook for about 3-5 minutes per side, until they are beautifully golden brown and slightly crispy. You’re looking for that perfect, slightly puffed-up texture. Listen for that satisfying sizzle!

Garnish and Serve

Step 5: Once cooked, transfer the tlacoyos to a plate. Top them generously with your prepared 1 cup nopales, a spoonful of your favorite 1 cup salsa, some crumbled 1 cup requesón or queso fresco, and a sprinkle of fresh 1/4 cup cilantro. Serve them immediately while they’re warm and delicious!

Pro Tips for the Best Tlacoyos Stuffed Masa Cakes

Want to elevate your tlacoyos game? I’ve learned a few tricks that make a huge difference in achieving that perfect texture and flavor. Following these tips will help you nail this best tlacoyos recipe every time.

Use the right masa: Nixtamalized masa is key for authentic flavor and texture. If you can’t find it, look for masa harina specifically for tamales or tortillas.
Don’t overfill: Too much filling can make the tlacoyos difficult to seal and shape, potentially causing them to burst while cooking.
Control the heat: Medium heat is your friend. Too high and they’ll burn before the inside is heated through; too low and they won’t get crispy.

What’s the secret to perfect tlacoyos?

The secret to perfect tlacoyos lies in the masa’s hydration and gentle handling. Ensure your masa is pliable, not sticky or crumbly. When shaping, don’t press too hard, as this can toughen the masa. Treating these traditional Mexican masa cakes with care makes all the difference.

Can I make tlacoyos ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the masa and fillings a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Shape the tlacoyos just before cooking to prevent the masa from drying out.

How do I avoid common mistakes with tlacoyos?

A common mistake is using masa that’s too dry, causing it to crack when shaping. Always have a little water handy to moisten your hands. Another pitfall is overworking the masa, which can lead to tough cakes. Remember, this is an easy stuffed masa cakes recipe, so relax and enjoy the process!

Best Ways to Serve Tlacoyos Stuffed Masa Cakes

Once your delicious tlacoyos are cooked to golden perfection, the real fun begins with how you serve them! I love presenting these homemade tlacoyos with toppings because it allows everyone to customize their own flavor adventure. Think of them as a blank canvas for incredible Mexican flavors.

For a truly authentic experience, serve them just like you’d find them at a market – piping hot with a generous dollop of fresh salsa, a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco, and some bright cilantro. They also pair wonderfully with a side of pickled red onions or a simple green salad. These are the kinds of dishes that make you feel like you’re enjoying the best authentic Mexican street food tlacoyos!

Variations of Tlacoyos You Can Try

While this recipe focuses on a classic approach, the beauty of tlacoyos is their incredible versatility. You can easily adapt them to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Exploring these variations is what makes making homemade tlacoyos with toppings so much fun!

For a heartier option, try tlacoyos bean stuffed cakes using different types of beans like black beans or pintos. Craving something cheesy? Tlacoyos cheese stuffed cakes are delicious, often filled with queso fresco or Oaxaca cheese. If you prefer a different texture, tlacoyos potato stuffed cakes, made with mashed potatoes and spices, are a fantastic choice. You can also make wonderful corn masa cakes with savory filling using finely chopped mushrooms, corn, and poblano peppers for a vegetarian delight. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite ingredients!

Tlacoyos Stuffed Masa Cakes: Make 4 amazing cakes - Tlacoyos Stuffed Masa Cakes - additional detail

Nutrition Facts for Tlacoyos Stuffed Masa Cakes

When I make these delicious Tlacoyos Stuffed Masa Cakes, I like to keep track of what I’m eating, and I know many of you do too! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving, which is about one tlacoyo. This helps you fit them into your meal plan.

Calories: 250 kcal
Fat: 5 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 40 g
Fiber: 8 g
Sugar: 2 g
Protein: 10 g
Cholesterol: 10 mg
Sodium: 300 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

How to Store and Reheat Tlacoyos Stuffed Masa Cakes

Properly storing and reheating your tlacoyos is key to enjoying them as much as possible. After you’ve finished cooking them to a perfect golden crisp, it’s important to let them cool down completely before storing them. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy. Once cooled, place your easy stuffed masa cakes recipe creations in an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days.

For longer storage, these delicious masa cakes freeze wonderfully for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are wrapped tightly, perhaps in parchment paper followed by a layer of foil or a freezer-safe bag, to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, resist the temptation to use the microwave, as it can make them tough. Instead, reheat them on a dry comal or skillet over medium heat for a few minutes per side, until they’re warmed through and regain their delightful crispness. This method truly preserves the texture of your homemade tlacoyos.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tlacoyos Stuffed Masa Cakes

What is the difference between tlacoyos and gorditas?

That’s a great question! While both are delicious masa-based treats, tlacoyos are typically oval-shaped and stuffed before cooking, often with beans or other savory fillings. Gorditas are usually round and thicker, with a pocket cut into them after cooking to add fillings. Think of tlacoyos as a more integrated stuffed masa cake, whereas gorditas are more like a pocket to be filled.

Can I use masa harina instead of nixtamalized masa?

Yes, you absolutely can! If you can’t find fresh nixtamalized masa, masa harina (corn flour treated with lime) is a widely available substitute. Just make sure you’re using masa harina specifically for tortillas or tamales, not cornmeal. Follow the package instructions for hydration, and you’ll still get fantastic results for your Tlacoyos stuffed masa cakes recipe.

What are the most common tlacoyos fillings?

The most traditional and popular fillings for tlacoyos are mashed beans, especially refried pinto beans, and fava beans. You’ll also find them filled with cheese, such as queso fresco or requesón. Some vendors offer variations with finely chopped vegetables or even a bit of spiced meat, but the bean-filled versions are truly classic and incredibly satisfying.

Are tlacoyos spicy?

Tlacoyos themselves aren’t inherently spicy; the spice usually comes from the filling or the toppings you add! For instance, if you use a spicy chorizo or a very piquant salsa, your tlacoyos will have a kick. If you prefer them mild, you can easily opt for a non-spicy bean filling and a mild salsa. It’s all about customizing your Tlacoyos stuffed masa cakes recipe to your preference!