Cream Pecans
Cream Pecans are a sweet, crunchy treat with rich caramel flavor and tender pecans, perfect for snacking or gifting to those who love indulgent, nutty confections.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine brown sugar, sugar, and sour cream in a pan.
- Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until sugars are dissolved.
- Continue cooking until a medium soft ball forms when tested in water.
- Remove from heat, add vanilla flavoring and pecan halves.
- Stir until a light sugar coating begins to form on the nuts.
- Turn out onto wax paper.
- Separate nuts by hand as you place them on the wax paper.
- Let cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of light. If you don't have sour cream, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute. Be sure to stir constantly to avoid burning the sugars, and test for the soft ball stage carefully by dropping a small amount into cold water. This recipe pairs beautifully with Raspberry Dessert Salad for a delightful dessert spread.
Serving Suggestions
These cream pecans make a delightful snack on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a cheese platter. Consider serving them alongside a light salad, such as a Low-Fat Waldorf Salad, for a delightful contrast. They can also be used as a topping for desserts like ice cream or incorporated into baked goods.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cream pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. Avoid freezing as it may alter the consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Pecans contains roughly 32 calories, with 1g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture will vary. Walnuts will provide a slightly more bitter taste, while almonds will add a nice crunch. Adjust cooking times if necessary, as different nuts may cook at different rates.
What should I do if the sugar mixture hardens?
If the sugar mixture hardens, you can gently reheat it over low heat, stirring constantly, until it softens again. If it becomes too hard, adding a teaspoon of water can help restore the desired consistency. Always be cautious not to overheat, as this can cause the sugars to burn.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative such as coconut cream or almond yogurt. Replace the sugars with coconut sugar for a more natural option. Ensure that the vanilla flavoring is alcohol-free, or use pure vanilla extract for the best results.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).