Panoche
Panoche is a rich, fudgy treat with deep chocolate and nut flavors, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and sharing at gatherings or as a special homemade gift.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine grated unsweetened chocolate, dark brown sugar, and cream or evaporated milk in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil. Add butter and cook, stirring occasionally until the mixture reaches 238°F (soft ball stage).
- Remove from heat.
- Add vanilla extract and chopped nuts.
- Beat until the candy begins to thicken.
- Pour into a buttered 9 x 9-inch pan.
- Allow to cool and set, then cut into 24 squares.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Panoche, consider adding a pinch of sea salt or a splash of espresso powder to the mixture. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can simply omit the nuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. For a creamier texture, use heavy cream instead of evaporated milk.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the Panoche into squares and serve as a delightful treat with coffee or tea. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. Consider serving alongside a slice of Pecan Pumpkin Pie(Homemade With Love) for a comforting fall dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Panoche in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a humid environment, consider refrigerating it to maintain its texture. To reheat, simply let it come to room temperature before serving, or warm it slightly in the microwave for a few seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Panoche contains roughly 307 calories, with 1g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 18g 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 different types of chocolate for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with milk chocolate or dark chocolate, but keep in mind that the sweetness may vary. If using sweeter chocolate, consider reducing the amount of sugar in the recipe to balance the flavors.
What if my candy doesn't set properly?
If your Panoche doesn't set, it may not have reached the soft ball stage. You can reheat the mixture and cook it a bit longer until it reaches 238°F. Alternatively, you can pour it into a greased pan and allow it to cool, then use it as a delicious topping for ice cream or pancakes.
Can I add other flavors to the Panoche?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate flavors like almond or peppermint extract for a unique twist. You might also try adding dried fruit or different types of nuts for added texture and taste.
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).