Dropped Penuche
Creamy, chewy penuche candies with rich caramel flavor, topped with nuts, perfect for sweet gift-giving or satisfying a nostalgic candy craving.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the mixture until a soft ball forms, at 240°F.
- Let the mixture sit until it cools.
- Beat the cooled mixture until it becomes creamy.
- Drop spoonfuls onto wax paper.
- Place 1/2 nuts on top of each piece.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the perfect texture for Dropped Penuche, monitor the temperature closely while boiling; a candy thermometer is ideal. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can skip the nuts entirely or substitute with crushed pretzels for added crunch. Experiment with flavorings like almond extract or a pinch of cinnamon to customize your treat. This recipe is similar to American recipes found in classic candy books.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful candies are perfect for holiday gatherings or as homemade gifts. Serve them alongside other treats like Mud Hens or Grandma Walsh's Banana Bread for a festive dessert platter. Pair with coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat, or enjoy them as a sweet snack anytime. They also make a great addition to a candy buffet.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Dropped Penuche in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer a chewier texture, refrigerate them. Avoid stacking the pieces directly on top of each other to prevent sticking. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds if they become too hard.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dropped Penuche contains roughly 932 calories, with 0g protein, 160g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 514mg per serving (22% 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 can I do if my Dropped Penuche doesn't set properly?
If your Dropped Penuche is too soft and doesn’t hold its shape, it may not have reached the right temperature while boiling. To fix this, you can reheat the mixture and bring it back to 240°F, then beat it again before dropping onto wax paper.
Can I use alternative sweeteners in this recipe?
Yes, you can use alternative sweeteners like coconut sugar or agave syrup, but keep in mind that it may alter the flavor and texture. Brown sugar is crucial for the characteristic taste of Penuche, so use alternatives carefully for the best results.
How do I know when the mixture is ready to cool?
The mixture is ready to cool when it reaches the soft ball stage, which is around 240°F. You can test this by dropping a small amount of the mixture into cold water; it should form a soft, pliable ball. Using a candy thermometer ensures accuracy.
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).