Old-Time Penuche
Old-Time Penuche is a classic, rich caramel-like fudge with walnuts, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and ideal for family gatherings or holiday treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, mix the light brown sugar, evaporated milk, butter or margarine, and salt.
- Cook, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved.
- Continue cooking until the mixture reaches 238°F on a candy thermometer, or until a small amount dropped into cold water forms a soft ball.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and chopped walnuts.
- Pour into a greased pan and let it cool before cutting into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a candy thermometer to ensure the mixture reaches the correct temperature of 238°F, which is crucial for achieving the right texture. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can substitute the walnuts with dried fruits like raisins or cranberries. Stir continuously to prevent the mixture from sticking to the pan, and consider using a heavy-bottomed saucepan for even heat distribution.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the penuche into small squares for a delightful treat that pairs beautifully with coffee or tea. Consider serving it alongside a slice of Betty Jo'S Pound Cake for a sweet dessert platter. These squares also make great gifts when wrapped in decorative packaging for 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 can help maintain its firmness. To refresh, simply let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving, as cold penuche can become too hard to enjoy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old-Time Penuche contains roughly 1090 calories, with 5g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is a good source of potassium (12% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1783mg per serving (78% 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
Can I use brown sugar instead of light brown sugar?
Using regular brown sugar will alter the flavor slightly, making it richer and more robust. However, if light brown sugar is unavailable, it can be substituted, but the final product will be darker and have a stronger molasses taste.
What should I do if my penuche is too soft?
If your penuche doesn't set properly, it may not have reached the correct temperature. You can reheat it gently, stirring constantly, and cook it further until it reaches 238°F to firm it up. Allow it to cool again in a greased pan once it reaches the desired temperature.
Is it possible to make penuche without nuts?
Absolutely! You can omit the walnuts entirely for a nut-free version. Alternatively, you can enhance the flavor with other mix-ins like coconut flakes or chocolate chips, depending on your preference.
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).