Description
Penuche fudge is a creamy, old-fashioned candy made with brown sugar, butter, and milk. It has a rich, caramel-like flavor and smooth texture, often enhanced with optional nuts like pecans or walnuts.
Ingredients
2 cups packed light brown sugar
1/2 cup whole milk (or evaporated milk for creamier texture)
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
Optional: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions
- Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper or lightly butter it.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, milk, butter, and salt over medium heat.
- Stir constantly until the butter melts and the mixture begins to boil.
- Attach a candy thermometer and cook undisturbed until the mixture reaches 236°F (soft-ball stage), about 5–7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes without stirring.
- Stir in vanilla extract and beat the mixture until it thickens and loses its glossy sheen, about 4–6 minutes.
- Quickly mix in the powdered sugar and nuts (if using) until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Let the fudge cool completely at room temperature before cutting into squares.
Notes
Use evaporated milk for a creamier texture.
Don’t stir once the mixture begins boiling to prevent sugar crystallization.
Use a candy thermometer for accuracy or test for soft-ball stage using cold water.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
Freeze for up to 2 months if needed, thaw before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
