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Old Fashioned Creamy Penuche Fudge (Brown Sugar Fudge)

Four squares of rich, brown penuche fudge stacked on a white plate, one piece showing a bite taken out.

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Make this classic, creamy Penuche Fudge using simple ingredients like brown sugar and butter for a nostalgic, melt-in-your-mouth holiday candy.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the paper.
  2. Combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter in a heavy-bottomed saucepan.
  3. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar and butter dissolve.
  4. Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan, avoiding the bottom. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil without stirring once boiling begins.
  5. Continue to cook until the mixture reaches 234 degrees F (Soft-Ball Stage). This usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes after boiling starts.
  6. Remove the pan from the heat immediately. Remove the thermometer.
  7. Stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and optional toasted pecans. Do not overmix.
  8. Let the mixture cool undisturbed, without stirring, until it reaches 110 degrees F. This cooling step is important for texture.
  9. Once cooled, beat the fudge mixture vigorously with a wooden spoon or an electric mixer on medium speed until it thickens, loses its gloss, and becomes dull. This takes about 5 to 10 minutes.
  10. Quickly spread the thickened fudge evenly into the prepared pan.
  11. Let the fudge set completely at room temperature for several hours or chill briefly to speed up setting.
  12. Lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment overhang, cut into squares, and serve.

Notes

  • For the creamiest texture, avoid stirring the mixture while it is boiling on the stove.
  • If you want a variation, substitute the pecans with 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or peanut butter chips for a different flavor profile.
  • This fudge is a great alternative to traditional chocolate fudge for holiday trays. If you are looking into meal planning for larger events, consider how simple recipes like this fit into your schedule.

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