Penuche(Candy)
Penuche is a rich, fudge-like candy with a caramelized brown sugar flavor, complemented by nuts and vanilla. Smooth and creamy, it offers a delightful treat perfect for those who enjoy sweet, nutty confections. Ideal for gifting or satisfying a sweet tooth, it’s a nostalgic homemade favorite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook brown sugar, white sugar, salt, light corn syrup, butter, canned milk, and water to the soft ball stage.
- Remove from stove and add nuts and vanilla.
- Place the pan in cold water to aid cooling; stir occasionally.
- Once the candy loses its shine, pour into a buttered pie pan.
- Cut the candy while it is still slightly soft.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the perfect soft ball stage, use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature closely, ideally around 235°F to 240°F. If you don't have canned milk, evaporated milk or even whole milk can work as substitutes. For added flavor, consider using a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. When incorporating the nuts, try toasting them lightly for enhanced taste.
Serving Suggestions
Penuche can be enjoyed on its own as a sweet treat or served alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack. It also pairs beautifully with Grammy Keef'S Homemade Brownies for a dessert platter. For a festive touch, consider adding a drizzle of chocolate on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Penuche in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Avoid refrigeration, as it may cause the candy to harden. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just be sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Penuche(Candy) contains roughly 1462 calories, with 3g protein, 136g carbohydrates, and 72g fat. It is a good source of potassium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 503mg per serving (22% 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
What can I use instead of light corn syrup?
If you don't have light corn syrup, you can substitute it with honey or maple syrup, though it may slightly alter the flavor. Agave syrup is another excellent alternative that will work well in this recipe.
Can I make Penuche without nuts?
Yes, you can easily make Penuche without nuts if you prefer a nut-free version. The candy will still be delicious, and you can add extra vanilla or even a hint of almond extract for added flavor.
Why is my Penuche too hard?
If your Penuche turns out too hard, it may have been cooked past the soft ball stage. To avoid this, use a candy thermometer for precision. If it hardens after cooling, you can try warming it gently to soften before cutting.
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).