Sour Cream Penuche
Rich and creamy sour cream penuche features caramel-like sweetness with a nutty crunch, perfect for those who enjoy indulgent confections with a hint of vanilla and nuts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar and sour cream; heat to boiling, stirring until sugars are dissolved.
- Add butter; cover and cook over low heat for 3 or 4 minutes.
- This dissolves any sugar crystals on the sides of the pan and keeps the candy from sugaring.
- Remove cover and boil to 236°F (soft ball stage).
- Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.
- Add vanilla and beat until creamy.
- Stir in chopped nuts.
- Pour into a greased pan and let stand until firm.
- Cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure smooth penuche, use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent scorching. If you don't have sour cream, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for a similar tangy flavor. Be careful not to stir the mixture once it starts boiling, as this can lead to sugar crystals forming. For a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or replace them with seeds.
Serving Suggestions
Penuche is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. For a festive touch, serve it alongside Methodist Salad at gatherings. You can also cut the penuche into small squares for a charming addition to dessert platters or holiday cookie trays.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover penuche in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep it fresh, you may also refrigerate it, but allow it to come to room temperature before serving to regain its creamy texture. Avoid freezing, as it can change the consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sour Cream Penuche contains roughly 182 calories, with 1g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 13g 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 change the type of nuts used in this recipe?
Absolutely! While chopped walnuts are traditional, you can use pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts for a different flavor. Just make sure to toast them lightly to enhance their taste before adding them to the penuche mixture.
What should I do if my penuche doesn't set properly?
If your penuche is too soft, it may not have reached the proper temperature during cooking. Try reheating it gently and boil again until it reaches the soft ball stage (236°F). If it’s still too soft, you can use it as a sauce over ice cream or pancakes instead!
Is it possible to make a vegan version of penuche?
Yes! You can make a vegan version by substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative and using coconut cream in place of sour cream. Just ensure your sugars are vegan-friendly, as some brands may use bone char in processing.
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).