Pralines(Mexican Candy)
Sweet and crunchy Mexican pralines with pecans, caramelized brown sugar, and creamy sour cream, perfect for satisfying a nutty, sweet craving or sharing with friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Butter the sides of a heavy 1-quart saucepan.
- Stir sugar, vanilla, and sour cream together in the saucepan.
- Continue to stir until all ingredients melt, then cook to soft ball stage (236°F on a candy thermometer).
- Add vanilla; beat until mixture thickens.
- Add the pecan halves and stir until all are coated.
- Turn out onto a greased platter.
- Separate the nuts after they cool.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using toasted pecans. If you don’t have sour cream, you can substitute with Greek yogurt or crème fraîche for a similar tang. Make sure to stir continuously to prevent burning. If you prefer a sweeter treat, add more brown sugar. This recipe can also be adapted with different nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for a twist on traditional pralines.
Serving Suggestions
These pralines are perfect as a sweet treat after a meal or as a snack throughout the day. They pair beautifully with coffee or tea, making them a delightful addition to a dessert platter. You can also incorporate them into gift baskets alongside other Mexican recipes for a festive touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Avoid refrigerating, as it can cause them to become sticky. If they harden too much, let them sit at room temperature for a bit before serving to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pralines(Mexican Candy) contains roughly 128 calories, with 3g protein, 30g 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 make these pralines ahead of time?
Yes, you can make pralines in advance and store them in an airtight container. They remain fresh for up to a week at room temperature, making them great for parties or as gifts.
What is the soft ball stage in candy making?
The soft ball stage is when the candy mixture reaches 236°F on a candy thermometer. At this point, a small amount of the syrup dropped into cold water forms a soft ball that can be easily flattened between your fingers.
Can I use different types of nuts for this recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, you can experiment with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts for a different flavor profile. Just remember that different nuts may alter the overall taste and texture slightly.
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).