The natilla melcochas are a traditional Costa Rican candy made from sour cream and sugar. They are the highlight of a beautiful tradition called “The Fiesta of María’s Melcochas,” celebrated every December 7th in San Ramón, Costa Rica, on the eve of the celebration in honor of the Immaculate Conception of Mary. During this popular festival, children of all ages rush through the streets joyfully shouting praises to the Virgin Mary and visiting houses where someone with that name lives. They will shout “María, María,” and she will ask, “What causes so much joy?” to which the children will respond - “melcochas, melcochas”; and Mary will give them delicious melcochas, candies, and sweets.
The tradition began in Bajo La Paz in the 1900s, where a woman named Doña Paula Mesen decided to make melcochas to distribute to children in honor of the Virgin Mary. To this day, this festival is celebrated with much joy and devotion.
The natilla melcochas are sour cream candies with a flavor and creaminess very similar to traditional natilla. The texture of these delightful sweets varies; some are quite hard, while others are more like caramel. The recipe for these melcochas has been passed down through generations, and just tasting them evokes fond memories in our minds.
Melcochas are very easy to find in bakeries, grocery stores, and street vendors. Don't wait any longer—share this sweet tradition that delights all Costa Ricans.
