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Old Fashioned Penuche Fudge Recipe

A stack of rich, caramel-colored penuche fudge squares sprinkled with coarse sea salt on a white plate.

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Make creamy, melt-in-your-mouth Penuche Fudge using this traditional recipe based on brown sugar, butter, and cream. This classic candy is simple to prepare.

Ingredients

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  • 2 cups light brown sugar, packed
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Optional: 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Instructions

  1. Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
  2. Combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, milk or cream, and butter in a heavy-bottomed saucepan.
  3. Stir the mixture constantly over medium heat until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves.
  4. Stop stirring once the mixture boils. Insert a candy thermometer.
  5. Cook the mixture without stirring until it reaches 234 degrees Fahrenheit (soft-ball stage). This usually takes 10 to 15 minutes after it starts boiling.
  6. Remove the pan from the heat immediately when it reaches the correct temperature.
  7. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt. If using nuts, stir them in now.
  8. Let the mixture cool undisturbed until it reaches 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Do not rush this cooling step.
  9. Once cooled, beat the fudge mixture vigorously with a wooden spoon or an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat until the fudge loses its glossy shine and becomes thick and creamy, resembling peanut butter in texture. This takes about 5 to 10 minutes.
  10. Quickly spread the finished Penuche Fudge into the prepared pan.
  11. Allow the fudge to set completely at room temperature for several hours or chill briefly to speed setting.
  12. Cut into squares before serving.

Notes

  • For the creamiest texture, use a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent scorching the sugars.
  • If you prefer a richer flavor, substitute heavy cream for whole milk.
  • If you want Penuche Frosting Ideas, stop beating when the mixture is slightly softer than fudge consistency and use immediately over cooled cakes or bars.
  • This recipe makes a wonderful Holiday Fudge Treat.

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