Fudge

Fudge - rich, soft candy made from butter, sugar and milk, boiled to the soft-ball stage, and then beaten while it cools until smooth and creamy, then let set in a pan before cutting in squares.

Nuts, chocolate, or other ingredients are often added, and there are many variations and flavors of fudge from which to choose from. Popular flavors include chocolate, maple, and penuche (the traditional fudge flavor, made from caramelized brown sugar, butter and milk).

Fudge is a very popular, traditional sweet which can be made at home in your own kitchen - there are some very easy recipes to be found that even children can do.

Gourmet fudge in a dizzying assortment of decadent variations and flavors is also made by a large number of candy-crafting companies, right down to the very tiny specialty shop on the corner.

Super Easy Chocolate Fudge

Easy enough for a child to make!

1 14oz. can sweetened condensed milk
1 12oz. bag semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tsp. vanilla

Grease an 8 x 8 or 9 x 9 microwave-safe glass pan. Pour in condensed milk, chocolate chips and vanilla and mix. Place in microwave and heat for approximately 3 minutes on high until melted, checking and stirring periodically. When melted, stir again until smooth and well-blended. Chill in the refrigerator until firm.