Penoche
Penoche is a rich, chewy caramel candy with nutty crunch, perfect for sweet tooths and festive treats, offering a smooth, buttery flavor with crunchy walnuts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix brown sugar, white sugar, and Pet milk well.
- Bring to the boiling point, stirring until sugar is dissolved.
- Cook until the mixture reaches 236°F or until a small amount dropped into cold water forms a soft ball.
- Add butter and cool until lukewarm, then beat until creamy.
- Add vanilla and walnuts, then pour into a greased pan.
- When cold, cut into squares.
- If the mixture curdles, it will become smooth after beating.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the sugar is fully dissolved before boiling. If you find the mixture curdling, continue beating until it becomes creamy. You can substitute walnuts with pecans or omit nuts for a nut-free version. Be cautious with temperature; using a candy thermometer can help achieve the perfect soft ball stage, critical for the right consistency in this sweet treat.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the penoche into small squares and serve as a delightful dessert or sweet snack. It pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea and can be a great addition to a dessert platter alongside other treats like Christmas Rocks or Pudding Pops(Kids). For a fun twist, consider serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover penoche in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a humid area, refrigerate it to prevent stickiness. To enjoy it later, simply let it come to room temperature before serving. Avoid freezing, as it can alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Penoche contains roughly 204 calories, with 0g protein, 21g 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
What should I do if my penoche doesn't set properly?
If your penoche is too soft and doesn't set, it may not have reached the right temperature. You can reheat it gently and cook it a bit longer, checking for the soft ball stage again. If it's too hard, you can try melting it down with a bit of cream and adjusting the consistency.
Can I use a different type of milk in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute Pet milk with whole milk or evaporated milk for a similar richness. However, using milk alternatives like almond or soy milk may affect the texture and flavor, so it's best to stick with dairy for the authentic penoche experience.
How can I add flavor variations to my penoche?
You can customize your penoche by adding different flavorings such as almond extract, or even a touch of cocoa powder for a chocolate twist. Experimenting with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can also introduce a delightful warmth to the candy, making it unique to your 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).