Old-Fashioned Penuche
A rich, creamy fudge with caramel and nut flavors, perfect for satisfying sweet tooth cravings and ideal for holidays or gifting to loved ones.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Lightly grease the sides of a saucepan.
- Add the light brown sugar and light cream to the saucepan.
- Cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until the sugar is dissolved.
- Ensure you cannot feel sugar grains when rubbing the spoon against the sides of the saucepan.
- Remove from heat and wipe sugar grains from the sides of the pan above the liquid level with a damp towel.
- Return to heat; cook over medium heat without stirring until a candy thermometer reads 238°F or until a soft ball forms when a little is dropped into cold water.
- Remove from heat; add butter and cool to lukewarm without stirring.
- Add vanilla and beat until the fudge begins to thicken and loses its gloss.
- Stir in the chopped nuts.
- Spread the mixture into a lightly buttered pan.
- Cut into 1-inch squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a candy thermometer to ensure precise cooking temperature. If you don't have light cream, half-and-half or even whole milk can serve as a substitute, but the texture may vary slightly. Stir constantly at the beginning to avoid burning the sugar, and consider using a silicone spatula for easier cleanup. This recipe is great for making old-fashioned confections similar to those found in traditional American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the penuche into bite-sized squares and serve as a sweet treat with coffee or tea. It pairs beautifully with Chocolate-Cinnamon Pudding for a delightful dessert spread. For a festive touch, consider packaging the squares in decorative boxes to give as gifts during holidays or special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover penuche in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a humid climate, refrigeration may help maintain its texture. To reheat, gently warm the fudge in the microwave in short bursts, being careful not to melt it completely, as this can change the consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old-Fashioned Penuche contains roughly 223 calories, with 0g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 11g fat.
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 brown sugar substitutes for this recipe?
While light brown sugar is key for authentic flavor, you can use a blend of white sugar with molasses or a brown sugar substitute in a pinch. Just be aware that the texture and taste may vary slightly, so it’s best to use real brown sugar when possible.
What can I do if my penuche is too hard?
If your penuche turns out too hard, try warming it slightly in the microwave for a few seconds, then mix in a bit of cream or milk to soften it. This will help restore some moisture and improve the texture, making it more enjoyable to eat.
How can I make this penuche vegan?
To make a vegan version of penuche, substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine and use coconut cream or a non-dairy milk alternative instead of light cream. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may differ slightly from the traditional recipe.
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).