Quick Walnut Penuche
Rich and nutty walnut penuche fudge combines caramel-like sweetness with crunchy walnuts, perfect for sharing and gifting, appealing to those who love homemade confections.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a saucepan.
- Add brown sugar and cook over low heat for 2 minutes, stirring.
- Add milk and stir until boiling.
- Remove from heat and cool slightly.
- Gradually add confectioners sugar until the mixture reaches fudge consistency.
- Stir in chopped walnuts.
- Spread the mixture in an 8-inch square pan.
- Chill until set.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the butter is fully melted before adding the brown sugar. If you prefer a nuttier flavor, toast the walnuts lightly before chopping. If you don’t have confectioners sugar, you can blend granulated sugar until fine. Adjust the amount of confectioners sugar based on desired consistency; it should be thick enough to hold its shape. This recipe is a great addition to any dessert table alongside Special K Cookies (Unbaked).
Serving Suggestions
Cut the penuche into bite-sized squares for easy serving and enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea. It pairs beautifully with Maple Custard for a delightful dessert duo. For a festive touch, serve with seasonal fruits or alongside a slice of Vi'S Banana Cake. These squares are perfect for parties or as a sweet treat after dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover penuche squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To prevent sticking, separate layers with parchment paper. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. Avoid freezing, as the texture can change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Walnut Penuche contains roughly 321 calories, with 3g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 26g 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 regular sugar instead of brown sugar?
While brown sugar adds a rich flavor and moisture, you can substitute it with an equal amount of granulated sugar. However, the penuche will be less caramel-like in flavor. Consider adding a tablespoon of molasses to mimic the taste of brown sugar if desired.
What can I substitute for walnuts?
If you're allergic to walnuts or prefer a different nut, pecans or almonds work well as substitutes in this recipe. You can also omit the nuts entirely for a smooth fudge-like consistency or use dried fruits for added sweetness and texture.
How can I tell when the penuche is set?
The penuche is set when it feels firm to the touch and holds its shape when cut into squares. If it’s still soft and sticky, allow it to chill longer. Make sure to let it cool in the refrigerator for at least an hour to achieve the right consistency.
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).