Mexican Nut Candy
A rich, nutty Mexican candy with caramel-like sweetness and crunchy nuts, perfect for sharing or indulging in a nostalgic treat with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir both of the sugars, evaporated milk, and margarine together in a large pan.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture forms a soft ball when a little bit of it is dropped into cold water.
- It is too soft if the mixture covers the bottom of the glass; it should hold together loosely.
- Add the vanilla and salt; cook about 1 minute longer.
- Remove from heat and add nuts.
- Beat with a spoon until candy starts to get very thick.
- Drop by large spoonfuls onto wax paper and let cool.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using mixed nuts or toasting them lightly before adding. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, substitute the evaporated milk with coconut milk. Be sure to stir regularly to prevent sticking, and use a candy thermometer for precision, aiming for the soft ball stage at 234°F to 240°F. This candy can be tricky, so patience is key!
Serving Suggestions
These Mexican Nut Candies make a delightful treat at parties or as a sweet snack. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or a warm beverage. For a festive touch, serve them alongside Teresa'S Tortilla Soup or as part of a dessert platter featuring various Mexican recipes. They are also great for gifting during holidays or special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them from sticking together, you can layer them with parchment paper. Avoid refrigeration as it can alter the texture, making the candy too hard. If needed, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Nut Candy contains roughly 395 calories, with 2g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1775mg per serving (77% 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
What type of nuts work best for this candy?
You can use a variety of nuts including almonds, pecans, walnuts, or even peanuts. Choose your favorites or mix several types for added flavor and texture. Just ensure they are roughly chopped to allow for even distribution throughout the candy.
Can I make this candy in advance?
Yes, this candy can be made a few days in advance. Just ensure it is stored properly in an airtight container to maintain freshness. If you plan to make it longer in advance, consider freezing it, though the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Is there a way to make this recipe less sweet?
To reduce the sweetness, you can decrease the amount of granulated sugar slightly, or increase the quantity of nuts to balance the sweetness with more savory flavors. Adding a pinch of sea salt can also enhance the overall taste and reduce the perception of sweetness.
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).