Dissolve the masa harina in 1 quart of water, then strain the water into a saucepan (throw away the masa). Boil until it is thick, stirring with a wooden spoon, about 15 minutes. Add the milk, piloncillo, vanilla, and canela. Bring the liquid back to a simmer, stirring often to thicken. This will take about 45 minutes, keeping the heat at a minimum so the milk doesnt curdle. Remove the canela stick before serving. [ SOURCE 1998-Ap http://www.melissas.com/ ] >>Hanneman/Buster Notes: Tamales and Atole have been a classic combination since pre-Hispanic times. There are Atole counters in the markets throughout Mexico. Recipe by: A Cooks Tour of Mexico by Nancy Zaslavsky Posted to MC-Recipe Digest by KitPATh on Apr 17, 1998