Grandma'S Penuche

Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Cuisine: American

Grandma's Penuche is a rich, buttery caramel fudge infused with maple syrup and crunchy walnuts, perfect for sweet tooths and nostalgic gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups brown sugar
  • 1 cup whipping cream
  • 1 cup real maple syrup
  • 2 cups chopped walnuts

Instructions

  1. Stir together the brown sugar, whipping cream, and maple syrup in a microwave-safe bowl.
  2. Microwave the mixture for 7 minutes, then stir well.
  3. Microwave again for 8 more minutes until the mixture is thickened.
  4. Beat the mixture with an electric mixer for 10 to 12 minutes until creamy and firm.
  5. Add chopped walnuts and fold in.
  6. Pour the mixture onto greased pans and let it set.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, ensure your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can omit the walnuts or replace them with an equal amount of crushed graham crackers for added texture. If you want to enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt or a splash of vanilla extract to the mixture while beating it.

Serving Suggestions

This penuche is delightful on its own, but you can also serve it alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a sweet afternoon treat. It pairs beautifully with Dessert Ring Coffee Cake for an inviting dessert spread. Consider garnishing with extra chopped walnuts or a drizzle of maple syrup for presentation.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover penuche in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to two weeks. To reheat, cut into pieces and microwave for a few seconds, just until slightly warm, to soften without melting.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Grandma'S Penuche contains roughly 1364 calories, with 11g protein, 208g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

1364 kcal 68% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 11g 22% DV
Total Fat 60.9g 78% DV
Carbs 208.1g 76% DV
Fiber 4g 14% DV
Sugar 192.3g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 65.4mg 3% DV
Potassium 735.6mg 16% DV
Cholesterol 67.8mg 23% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 247.2mcg 27% DV
Vitamin C 1.1mg 1% DV
Vitamin D 1mcg 5% DV
Calcium 320.4mg 25% DV
Iron 2.8mg 16% DV
Contains Milk Tree nuts

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 a different type of sugar in this recipe?

While brown sugar is essential for the distinct flavor of penuche, you can experiment with light brown sugar or even coconut sugar for a different taste. However, avoid using granulated white sugar, as it won't provide the same caramel-like richness.

What can I do if my penuche doesn't set properly?

If your penuche remains too soft after cooling, it may need more time in the microwave. Return it to the microwave in short increments, stirring in between until thickened. Be careful not to overcook, as it can become too hard.

Can I add flavors to this penuche recipe?

Absolutely! Consider incorporating a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a few drops of almond extract to enhance the flavor. For a chocolate twist, you can mix in some cocoa powder or chocolate chips after beating the mixture.

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).

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