Fudge Or Penuche
Rich, creamy fudge or penuche with sweet marshmallow flavor, crunchy walnuts, and chocolate or butterscotch bits, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings or sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease an 8 x 8-inch heavy aluminum pan.
- In a 2-quart heavy saucepan, combine sugar, marshmallows, margarine, evaporated milk, and chocolate or butterscotch bits.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and begins to boil.
- Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture reaches the soft ball stage (about 235°F to 240°F on a candy thermometer).
- Remove from heat and stir in chopped walnuts.
- Pour into the prepared pan and let cool until set.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the perfect texture, ensure you stir continuously while cooking to prevent burning. If you prefer a nut-free version, feel free to omit the walnuts or substitute with sunflower seeds. For an extra twist, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavor profile. For a variation, try swapping chocolate bits for butterscotch bits, which is a popular alternative in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the fudge into small squares and serve as a delightful dessert or a sweet snack. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa for a cozy treat. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside Grandmom's Rice Pudding at holiday gatherings. It also makes an excellent gift when wrapped in decorative packaging.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate it, but allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for easier cutting. Avoid freezing, as it may change the texture of the fudge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fudge Or Penuche contains roughly 543 calories, with 9g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (71% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (44% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin D. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 use different types of nuts in the fudge?
Absolutely! While walnuts are traditional, you can substitute them with pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts for a different flavor. Just make sure to chop them coarsely for the best texture.
What is the soft ball stage in candy making?
The soft ball stage is when the sugar syrup reaches a temperature of 235°F to 240°F. You can test this by dropping a small amount into cold water; if it forms a soft ball, it's ready. A candy thermometer is the most accurate way to ensure you reach this stage.
Can I make this fudge without marshmallows?
Yes, you can substitute marshmallows with an equivalent amount of marshmallow fluff. If you prefer not to use marshmallows at all, you can try adding extra evaporated milk or a bit of corn syrup to maintain the moisture and texture.
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).