Walnut Penuche Fudge
Walnut Penuche Fudge offers rich, creamy sweetness with toasted walnut crunch, perfect for gifting or indulging in a nostalgic treat. Ideal for fudge lovers and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line an 8 x 8-inch pan with lightly aluminum foil.
- Spread walnuts on a microwave-safe plate and cook on High for 6 to 7 minutes to toast.
- Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Stir in brown sugar and sweetened condensed milk until blended.
- Cook, uncovered, on High for 7 to 9 minutes, stirring 4 times to ensure sugar is dissolved and mixture thickens.
- Remove the bowl from microwave and place on a heat-safe surface.
- Add vanilla extract and stir well.
- Beat with an electric mixer for 3 to 4 minutes until smooth and glossy.
- Add toasted walnuts and beat for an additional 1 minute to evenly distribute nuts.
- Spread the mixture into the prepared pan.
- Allow to cool completely.
- Refrigerate until firm, about 2 to 3 hours.
- Peel off the foil and cut into squares.
- Store in a cool, tightly covered place.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter and toasting the walnuts until they're golden brown. If you don't have sweetened condensed milk, you can make a quick substitute by combining milk and sugar. Ensure to stir frequently while cooking to prevent the fudge from burning. For a variation, try adding a pinch of sea salt or incorporating chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the fudge into squares and serve as a sweet treat alongside coffee or tea. It pairs beautifully with Nutty Apple Bread for a delightful brunch spread. For an extra touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the top or sprinkle with sea salt. This fudge also makes an excellent gift when wrapped in cellophane and tied with a ribbon.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Walnut Penuche Fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate the fudge, where it can last for up to two weeks. If you prefer a softer texture, allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving, as refrigeration can harden the fudge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Walnut Penuche Fudge contains roughly 324 calories, with 6g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% 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
Can I use different nuts instead of walnuts?
Yes, you can easily substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or any other nut of your choice. Just ensure they are chopped and toasted for the best flavor and texture. This allows for customization based on your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Is there a way to make this fudge dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version of Walnut Penuche Fudge, substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil, and use a dairy-free sweetened condensed milk alternative. This way, you can enjoy a similar creamy texture without the dairy.
How can I tell when the fudge is ready?
The fudge is ready when it thickens significantly and begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl. A good test is to use a candy thermometer; the mixture should reach about 234°F to 240°F. If you don't have a thermometer, a spoon test can also work: drop a small amount into cold water, and if it forms a soft ball, it's done.
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).