Mom'S Penuche
Creamy, nutty penuche fudge with rich caramel flavor, perfect for sharing or gifting. A nostalgic treat suited for sweet tooths and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook sugar and milk together, stirring until mixture begins to boil.
- Remove from heat when soft ball is formed, when dropped in cold water; add butter, nuts, and vanilla.
- Beat until candy begins to hold its shape.
- Drop by teaspoonfuls on greased sheet.
- When set, remove to airtight container.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the perfect penuche texture, ensure you cook the sugar and milk mixture to the soft ball stage, which can be tested by dropping a bit into cold water. If you're short on nuts, you can substitute with mini chocolate chips for a different flavor. For a richer taste, consider using brown sugar cookies (no eggs) as a base for flavor inspiration.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful penuche candies make a great treat for holiday gatherings or as a sweet gift. Serve them alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack. They also pair beautifully with old-fashioned chocolate cake for a decadent dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover penuche in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. To enjoy them again, allow them to return to room temperature before serving, as this will help restore their chewy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Penuche contains roughly 756 calories, with 5g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (22% of the Daily Value) and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C.
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 regular milk instead of evaporated milk?
Using regular milk may change the texture and richness of the penuche. Evaporated milk has less water content, which helps achieve the right consistency. If you must substitute, consider simmering regular milk to reduce it before adding it to the recipe.
What kind of nuts work best in penuche?
Chopped pecans or walnuts are traditional choices for penuche, adding a nice crunch and flavor. However, feel free to experiment with almonds or hazelnuts for a unique twist. Just ensure the nuts are chopped finely to blend well into the candy.
How can I make penuche more flavorful?
Enhance the flavor of your penuche by adding a pinch of salt or using flavored extracts like almond or maple instead of vanilla. You can also incorporate a bit of cocoa powder for a chocolatey variation, making it reminiscent of American recipes that blend traditional sweetness with a twist.
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).