The Panocha Recipe is a classic Southwestern and Filipino-inspired sweet treat made from brown sugar, milk and flour.
This dessert is rich, smooth and full of deep caramel flavor. Panocha (also spelled panocha or panutsa) has been enjoyed for generations, especially during Lent, holidays and family gatherings.
Its soft, fudge-like texture makes it a comforting and nostalgic dessert that many people grew up eating.
The best part is that Panocha is simple to prepare. With just a few ingredients and basic cooking steps, you can make a homemade sweet treat that tastes warm, buttery and delicious. Let’s learn how to make this traditional Panocha Recipe at home.
When I First Tried Panocha Recipe
I first tasted Panocha at a family celebration. The texture was soft and smooth, and the caramel flavor was rich and comforting. It felt like a warm, sweet memory in every bite.
Since then, I’ve made Panocha for holidays and gatherings, and it always brings smiles. Everyone loves this simple, old-fashioned treat!
Recipe Card Info
- Recipe Name: Panocha Recipe
- Servings: 10–12 pieces
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Course: Dessert
- Cuisine: Filipino/Southwestern
- Calories: 160 kcal per piece
Equipment List
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing spoon
- Measuring cups
- Whisk
- Baking dish or tray
- Parchment paper
Ingredients You Need for Panocha Recipe
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
- Optional: ½ cup chopped nuts (peanuts or pecans)
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Dish
Line a small tray or dish with parchment paper.
This makes it easy to remove the panocha later.
2. Mix Flour and Milk
In a bowl, whisk the flour and evaporated milk together.
Whisk until smooth with no lumps.
3. Cook the Sugar
Place a saucepan over medium heat.
Add the brown sugar and stir until it melts and turns smooth.
Do not burn the sugar.
4. Add Milk Mixture
Slowly pour the milk-flour mixture into the melted sugar.
Stir continuously to keep it smooth.
5. Add Butter and Vanilla
Add butter, salt, and vanilla extract.
Cook for 10–12 minutes until the mixture thickens.
6. Add Nuts (Optional)
If using nuts, stir them in now for added flavor and crunch.
7. Pour and Set
Pour the mixture into the lined tray.
Spread evenly and let it cool for 1–2 hours.
8. Cut and Serve
Once firm, cut into squares or shapes.
Serve and enjoy.
Recipe Tips
- Cook on medium heat to avoid burning the sugar.
- Stir constantly for a smooth texture.
- Add nuts for extra crunch and flavor.
- Let it cool fully before cutting.
- Use quality brown sugar for deeper caramel flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with tea or coffee.
- Enjoy after meals as a small dessert.
- Wrap pieces for gifting during holidays.
- Add nuts or coconut on top for extra texture.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store up to 5 days in an airtight container.
- Refrigerator: Keeps for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount (per piece) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Sugar | 25g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Sodium | 45mg |
FAQs about Panocha Recipe
1. What does Panocha taste like?
It has a caramel, brown-sugar flavor with a soft, fudge-like texture.
2. Can I use regular milk instead of evaporated milk?
Yes, but the flavor will be lighter and less creamy.
3. Can I make it without flour?
Flour helps thicken the mixture. You can replace it with cornstarch.
4. What nuts work best?
Peanuts, pecans, or walnuts taste great.
5. Why did my panocha turn grainy?
The sugar may have cooked too quickly. Stir continuously for smooth texture.
Conclusion
The Panocha Recipe is a sweet, nostalgic dessert loved for its caramel flavor and soft texture. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can make this traditional treat anytime.
It’s perfect for holidays, celebrations, or whenever you want something warm and sweet. Once you try it, Panocha will become a favorite in your home!
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Panocha Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
- Optional: ½ cup chopped nuts peanuts or pecans
Instructions
Prepare the Dish
- Line a small tray or dish with parchment paper.
- This makes it easy to remove the panocha later.
Mix Flour and Milk
- In a bowl, whisk the flour and evaporated milk together.
- Whisk until smooth with no lumps.
Cook the Sugar
- Place a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the brown sugar and stir until it melts and turns smooth.
- Do not burn the sugar.
Add Milk Mixture
- Slowly pour the milk-flour mixture into the melted sugar.
- Stir continuously to keep it smooth.
Add Butter and Vanilla
- Add butter, salt, and vanilla extract.
- Cook for 10–12 minutes until the mixture thickens.
Add Nuts (Optional)
- If using nuts, stir them in now for added flavor and crunch.
Pour and Set
- Pour the mixture into the lined tray.
- Spread evenly and let it cool for 1–2 hours.
Cut and Serve
- Once firm, cut into squares or shapes.
- Serve and enjoy.
Notes
- Cook on medium heat to avoid burning the sugar.
- Stir constantly for a smooth texture.
- Add nuts for extra crunch and flavor.
- Let it cool fully before cutting.
- Use quality brown sugar for deeper caramel flavor.
Sara Collins is a food blogger at TastyDive. She shares simple and family-friendly recipes made with everyday ingredients. Her mission is to help home cooks enjoy tasty meals without stress.
