Penuche(Brown Sugar Fudge)

Prep: 10 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

A rich, creamy brown sugar fudge with nutty crunch, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and sharing with friends or family during holidays and special occasions.

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups packed brown sugar
  • 3/4 cup light cream
  • 2 tablespoons butter or margarine
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or peanuts

Instructions

  1. Line an 8 x 4 x 2-inch loaf pan with foil, extending the foil over the edges of the pan.
  2. Butter the foil and set the pan aside.
  3. Combine the brown sugar, light cream, and butter in a saucepan.
  4. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches the desired temperature and thickens.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and chopped walnuts or peanuts.
  6. Pour the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and let it cool until firm.
  7. Cut into squares and serve.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, ensure you stir constantly while cooking to avoid any graininess. You can substitute light cream with half-and-half or whole milk if necessary, but be aware that this might alter the final consistency slightly. Adding a pinch of salt can enhance the flavor, balancing the sweetness of the brown sugar. If you're looking for a nut-free version, feel free to leave out the walnuts or peanuts.

Serving Suggestions

Penuche is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the experience by serving it with a cup of coffee or tea. It also pairs beautifully with Cheesy Eggplant Sticks as a savory side. For a festive touch, consider cutting the fudge into shapes for holiday gatherings, or gift-wrapping pieces for friends and family.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover penuche in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep it fresh longer, you can refrigerate it, which will extend its shelf life for about two weeks. If you want to enjoy it warm, simply microwave a piece for a few seconds to soften it before serving.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Penuche(Brown Sugar Fudge) contains roughly 369 calories, with 0g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 22g fat.

369 kcal 18% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.4g 1% DV
Total Fat 21.7g 28% DV
Carbs 20.1g 7% DV
Fiber 0.2g 1% DV
Sugar 19.7g 39% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 8.1mg
Potassium 90.7mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 60.2mg 20% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.4mcg
Vitamin C 0mg
Calcium 19.8mg 2% DV
Iron 0.2mg 1% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Peanut Tree nuts

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 dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar?

Yes, using dark brown sugar will give your penuche a deeper flavor and a slightly darker color. The molasses content in dark brown sugar enhances the richness of the fudge, making it a great choice if you prefer a more robust taste.

What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?

You can substitute the butter with margarine or a plant-based butter alternative if you want a dairy-free option. Additionally, coconut oil can be used, although it may impart a slight coconut flavor to the fudge.

How can I tell when the fudge has reached the right temperature?

You can use a candy thermometer to check for the soft-ball stage, which is around 234°F to 240°F (112°C to 115°C). If you don't have a thermometer, drop a small amount of the mixture into cold water; if it forms a soft ball, it's ready to be removed from heat.

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).

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