Easy Penuche
When I think of homemade treats that take me back to my childhood, the Easy Penuche recipe immediately comes to mind. Growing up, my grandmother was famous for her sweet, creamy confections, and her penuche was always a favorite at family gatherings. The combination of rich, buttery flavors with the delightful crunch of pecans created a treat that felt so indulgent yet was surprisingly straightforward to make. I remember gathering around the kitchen, my siblings and I eagerly waiting for the first batch to cool, our mouths watering in anticipation. This recipe is not just about the sweet taste; it’s about those cherished moments. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply satisfy your sweet tooth, making Easy Penuche is the perfect way to create those memories.
Recipe Snapshot
15 mins
5 mins
10 mins
Medium
150 kcal
1 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
7 g
Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan, Chef’s Knife, Large Pot
What’s Great About This Easy Penuche
It’s All About the Flavor
The flavor profile of Easy Penuche is what truly sets it apart. It’s rich and creamy, thanks to the generous use of unsalted butter and brown sugar. These ingredients blend together to create a deep, caramel-like flavor that is both comforting and satisfying.
Simple Yet Satisfying
One of the best parts about this recipe is its simplicity. You don’t need any complicated techniques or fancy equipment to whip up a batch. Just a saucepan and a loaf pan will do the trick! You can easily make this dessert on a whim, and it’s perfect for those last-minute gatherings or cravings.
Perfect for Sharing
Once you’ve made your Easy Penuche, you’ll have a delightful treat that is perfect for sharing. Whether you’re gifting it to friends, taking it to a potluck, or simply enjoying it with family, this recipe is bound to bring smiles all around. It’s a lovely way to spread joy through food!
Versatile and Customizable
This recipe also allows for some creativity. While pecans are traditional, you can switch them out for your favorite nuts or even add in some chocolate chips for an extra indulgent twist. The base recipe is so delicious that it welcomes variations effortlessly!
Brings Back Memories
Every time I make Easy Penuche, I’m reminded of the joy it brought to my family. It’s a nostalgic dish that is deeply rooted in love and connection, making it more than just a dessert. It’s a way to keep my grandmother’s memory alive, sharing her legacy with each bite.
It’s All in the Texture
One of the most satisfying aspects of Easy Penuche is its texture. When you cut into the chilled squares, you’ll see that perfect fudge-like consistency. The creamy sweetness melts in your mouth, while the pecans add a delightful crunch, making it a treat you’ll want to keep coming back to.
Main Ingredients for Easy Penuche
When it comes to creating the perfect Easy Penuche, the ingredients are key. Each component plays a significant role in achieving that rich flavor and smooth texture. The main players in this sweet delight include unsalted butter, brown sugar, milk, and pecans. Together, they create a harmonious blend that is both satisfying and unforgettable.
- 1 cup unsalted butter: This is the foundation of the recipe, providing richness and a creamy texture.
- 2 cups packed brown sugar: The star ingredient that gives Penuche its signature caramel flavor.
- ½ cup whole milk: This adds moisture and helps to achieve that fudge-like consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 3 ½ to 4 cups sifted powdered sugar: Essential for thickening the mixture and giving it that sweet, melt-in-your-mouth quality.
- 1 ½ cups coarsely chopped pecans: Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, making the Easy Penuche even more enjoyable.
Recipe Directions for Easy Penuche
Making Easy Penuche is an enjoyable experience that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. Let’s dive into the steps to create this sweet treat! It’s easier than you might think, and soon you’ll be ready to enjoy your homemade confection.
- Start by preparing your workspace. Spray a 9 x 5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper. This ensures that your Penuche won’t stick, making it easy to remove later.
- In a heavy-bottomed 2-quart saucepan, melt 1 cup unsalted butter over medium-low heat. Keep stirring as needed to prevent burning. You want it to become completely melted and bubbly.
- Once the butter has melted, stir in 2 cups packed brown sugar and cook for about 2 minutes. Continue stirring constantly to ensure the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Now, it’s time to add in the liquid! Gently pour in ½ cup whole milk, stirring constantly to combine. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil while keeping an eye on it to avoid overflows.
- As soon as it reaches a boil, remove the saucepan from the heat. Allow the mixture to cool for about 30 to 40 minutes. You want it to be lukewarm or at room temperature; this helps it to thicken properly.
- After the mixture has cooled, stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. The aroma will be amazing, adding a lovely flavor layer to your Penuche.
- Next, gradually add in 3 ½ to 4 cups sifted powdered sugar, one half cup at a time. Stir well after each addition until fully combined. Your mixture should become thick, resembling fudge.
- Finally, fold in 1 ½ cups coarsely chopped pecans. This is where the magic happens, as the nuts add that perfect crunch to each bite.
- Spoon the mixture into your prepared loaf pan and sprinkle additional pecans on top if desired. Spread it evenly and smooth the surface with a spatula.
- Cover the pan and let the Penuche cool until firm. Once set, cut into squares and store in the refrigerator in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Things Worth Knowing
- Watch the temperature: When cooking the mixture, keeping a close eye on the temperature is crucial. You want to achieve a smooth consistency without burning the sugar.
- Cooling time is key: Allowing the mixture to cool properly before adding the powdered sugar is essential for achieving the right texture.
- Choose quality ingredients: The quality of your butter and brown sugar will greatly influence the flavor of your Penuche.
- Experiment with add-ins: Don’t hesitate to try different nuts or even mix in chocolate chips for a twist on the traditional recipe!
Recipe Notes about Easy Penuche
Here are some tips to ensure your Easy Penuche turns out perfectly every time. Following these guidelines will help you make the most of this delightful treat.
- Storage: Penuche can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Make sure it’s sealed well to maintain freshness.
- Freezing: If you want to enjoy it later, transfer the Penuche to a freezer-safe container, using parchment paper to separate the layers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
- Serving suggestions: This treat is perfect for family gatherings, birthday parties, or just a sweet snack at home. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for an added delight.
- Variations: Try using different nuts such as walnuts or almonds, or even incorporate a pinch of sea salt for a sweet and salty balance.
- Gift it: Wrap your Penuche in decorative wax paper for a lovely homemade gift. It’s sure to be a hit!
What to Serve Alongside Easy Penuche
Finding the right accompaniments to your Easy Penuche can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful suggestions!
- Tea or Coffee: The rich flavors of Penuche pair wonderfully with a steaming cup of tea or coffee. It makes for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Ice Cream: Serve your Penuche alongside a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for a delightful combination of textures and temperatures.
- Seasonal fruits: Fresh fruits like strawberries or raspberries can provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet, rich Penuche.
- Cheese platter: A selection of soft cheeses can complement the sweet notes of the Penuche, creating a well-rounded dessert experience.
- Nutty snack mix: Create a nut mix with similar nuts as those in the Penuche for a cohesive flavor theme.
- Special occasions: Easy Penuche is a fantastic addition to holiday celebrations, birthday parties, or casual family gatherings. Its sweet charm is sure to impress!
FAQ
Conclusion
The Easy Penuche recipe is a delightful treat that brings together rich flavors and a creamy texture, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring it all for yourself, this recipe holds the promise of sweet memories. I encourage you to give it a try and experience the joy it brings to your table. You won’t regret it!
Easy Penuche
Equipment
- Wooden Spoon
- Mixing Bowl
- Frying Pan
- Chef's Knife
- Large Pot
Ingredients
- 1 cup Unsalted butter
- 2 cups Packed brown sugar
- ½ cup Whole milk
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 3 ½ to 4 cups Sifted powdered sugar
- 1 ½ cups Coarsely chopped pecans
Instructions
- Start by preparing your workspace. Spray a 9 x 5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper. This ensures that your Penuche won’t stick, making it easy to remove later.
- In a heavy-bottomed 2-quart saucepan, melt 1 cup unsalted butter over medium-low heat. Keep stirring as needed to prevent burning. You want it to become completely melted and bubbly.
- Once the butter has melted, stir in 2 cups packed brown sugar and cook for about 2 minutes. Continue stirring constantly to ensure the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Now, it’s time to add in the liquid! Gently pour in ½ cup whole milk, stirring constantly to combine. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil while keeping an eye on it to avoid overflows.
- As soon as it reaches a boil, remove the saucepan from the heat. Allow the mixture to cool for about 30 to 40 minutes. You want it to be lukewarm or at room temperature; this helps it to thicken properly.
- After the mixture has cooled, stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. The aroma will be amazing, adding a lovely flavor layer to your Penuche.
- Next, gradually add in 3 ½ to 4 cups sifted powdered sugar, one half cup at a time. Stir well after each addition until fully combined. Your mixture should become thick, resembling fudge.
- Finally, fold in 1 ½ cups coarsely chopped pecans. This is where the magic happens, as the nuts add that perfect crunch to each bite.
- Spoon the mixture into your prepared loaf pan and sprinkle additional pecans on top if desired. Spread it evenly and smooth the surface with a spatula.
- Cover the pan and let the Penuche cool until firm. Once set, cut into squares and store in the refrigerator in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
