Penuche Chews

Prep: 15 min Cook: 25 min Serves: 24 Cuisine: American

Delicious chewy Penuche Chews featuring rich brown sugar, nuts, and coconut, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and sharing with friends and family.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups sifted flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 3/4 cup butter
  • 1 1/2 cups brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 cup sifted powdered sugar
  • 1 cup nuts
  • 1 cup coconut
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla

Instructions

  1. Sift together the flour, salt, and baking soda.
  2. In a large saucepan, combine butter, brown sugar, and milk.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  4. Stir constantly for 1 minute.
  5. Remove from heat.
  6. Stir in powdered sugar, nuts, coconut, and vanilla.
  7. Blend in the dry ingredients.
  8. Turn the mixture into a greased 15 x 10 x 1-inch pan or two 9 x 9 x 1-inch pans.
  9. Bake at 375°F for 25 to 30 minutes.
  10. Do not overbake.
  11. Cut while warm.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using brown butter instead of regular butter. You can substitute the nuts with sunflower seeds for a nut-free version. If you prefer a coconut-free recipe, simply omit the coconut and increase the flour to maintain the texture. Ensure you sift the powdered sugar well to avoid lumps when mixing it into the warm ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Cut the Penuche Chews into small squares and serve them as a delightful snack or dessert. They pair beautifully with coffee or tea for an afternoon treat. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside Fresh Ginger Cookies during the holidays. These chews also make an excellent addition to a dessert platter at parties.

Storage & Reheating

Allow the Penuche Chews to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. If you want to enjoy them warm later, reheat in the microwave for a few seconds until soft.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Penuche Chews contains roughly 334 calories, with 3g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 16g fat.

334 kcal 17% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.9g 6% DV
Total Fat 16.1g 21% DV
Carbs 33g 12% DV
Fiber 1.3g 5% DV
Sugar 15.2g 30% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 173.9mg 8% DV
Potassium 142.6mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 30.6mg 10% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 19mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 1.9mg 2% DV
Vitamin D 0.2mcg 1% DV
Calcium 49.2mg 4% DV
Iron 1.6mg 9% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten

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 make these Penuche Chews gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to choose a blend that includes xanthan gum for the best texture. The baking process remains the same, so follow the recipe as directed once you have your gluten-free flour ready.

What type of nuts work best in this recipe?

Walnuts or pecans are traditionally used in Penuche Chews, adding a rich flavor and crunch. However, you can also experiment with almonds or hazelnuts. If you want a different texture, try using chopped peanuts for a unique twist.

Can I freeze the Penuche Chews?

Yes, these chews freeze well. To freeze, cut them into squares and layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving, or enjoy them slightly frozen for a chewy treat.

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).

American recipes → Vegetarian recipes → Dairy recipes → All recipes →