Coconut Penuche
Creamy coconut penuche fudge offers a rich, caramel-like flavor with toasted coconut notes, perfect for those who enjoy sweet, nutty confections with a tropical twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line an 8 x 4 x 2-inch loaf pan with foil, extending the foil over the edges of the pan.
- Butter the foil.
- Set the prepared pan aside.
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, brown sugar, light cream, and milk.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches the soft ball stage (about 234-240°F).
- Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla.
- Add flaked coconut and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared loaf pan.
- Allow to cool and set before slicing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider substituting half of the milk with coconut milk. Stir continuously while cooking to prevent burning, and use a candy thermometer for accuracy. If you prefer a nuttier flavor, try adding chopped pecans or walnuts along with the coconut. Ensure the butter is fully melted before incorporating it for a smooth consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Coconut Penuche makes a delightful treat on its own or can be paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. For an interesting twist, consider serving it alongside Cherry Orange Chicken for a sweet and savory meal. It also complements a cup of coffee or tea beautifully for an afternoon snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Coconut Penuche in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you live in a humid climate, refrigerate it to prevent stickiness. When ready to serve, allow it to come to room temperature for the best texture, or gently warm it in the microwave for a few seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Coconut Penuche contains roughly 183 calories, with 1g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (13% 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 is the soft ball stage in candy making?
The soft ball stage occurs when a sugar syrup reaches a temperature of 234-240°F. At this stage, a small amount of syrup dropped into cold water forms a soft, pliable ball. Using a candy thermometer will help you accurately gauge this stage to ensure your Coconut Penuche sets perfectly.
Can I use other types of sweeteners in this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different sweeteners, such as honey or maple syrup, although the flavor and texture may vary. Keep in mind that using liquid sweeteners may require adjusting the amount of cream or milk to maintain the desired consistency for the Penuche.
How do I know when the Coconut Penuche is fully set?
Coconut Penuche is fully set when it cools to room temperature and holds its shape when sliced. It should have a firm yet slightly soft texture. If it feels too soft, allow it to cool longer. You can also refrigerate it briefly to help it set faster if needed.
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).