Mexican Cream Candy
Mexican Cream Candy is a rich, creamy treat with caramel and vanilla flavors, perfect for those who enjoy nostalgic confections or a sweet, nutty finish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the sugars, oleo, milk, and salt until soft ball stage, stirring constantly over medium heat.
- Add vanilla and chopped nuts after it reaches soft ball stage.
- Remove from heat and prepare a pan with ice water.
- Place the candy pan in the water and stir until the mixture becomes stiff.
- Be careful it doesn't set up too quickly.
- Butter two pie plates or a 9 x 9-inch cake pan, depending on desired thickness.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a candy thermometer to ensure you reach the soft ball stage, which is around 234°F (112°C). If you don't have oleo, unsalted butter can be substituted, but it may alter the flavor slightly. Adding a pinch of cinnamon can enhance the flavor profile. For a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped nuts.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the candy into small squares for serving, as it is quite sweet. This treat pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate, making it a delightful dessert option. Consider serving alongside other Mexican recipes for a themed dessert table, or use it as a sweet topping for ice cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To prevent sticking, you can layer the pieces with parchment paper. If you need to reheat, place a few pieces in the microwave for a few seconds until slightly softened, but avoid overheating to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Cream Candy contains roughly 193 calories, with 0g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 494mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
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 sweetened condensed milk instead of Carnation milk?
It's not recommended to substitute sweetened condensed milk for Carnation milk in this recipe, as the texture and sweetness levels are different. The recipe relies on the consistency of evaporated milk for achieving the right candy texture.
How can I tell if the candy is ready?
To check if your candy mixture has reached the soft ball stage, drop a small amount into a glass of cold water. If it forms a soft ball that flattens when removed, it's ready. If it hardens too much, you may have overcooked it.
Is it necessary to use a thermometer?
While a thermometer provides the most accurate way to check the temperature, you can also rely on the cold water test. However, using a thermometer is highly recommended for consistent results and to avoid any guesswork.
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).