day 14 - candy bar fudge

As I was browsing through recipes last night, I saw this one... twice!  So, I thought why not?  I'm not a huge fan of chocolate, but I know lots of people are. So for all you chocoholics out there, this one is for you!

Super simple microwave recipe.  Prep an 8x8 pan by coating with cooking spray and parchment paper and another layer of cooking spray (can never have too much!).  In a large bowl combine 1 stick of butter, 1/3 c cocoa powder, 1/4 c brown sugar & 1/4 c milk.  Microwave on high for about 3 minutes, until it is boiling.  Stir in 3 1/2 c powdered sugar and 1 tsp vanilla. Spread this mixture into the prepared pan. 

In a medium bowl combine 30 caramels (unwrapped of course) and 1 T water.  Microwave this on high for about 2 minutes until the caramels are all dissolved.  You may need to stir half-way through the cooking process.  Once the caramels are melted, stir in 2 cups of nuts.  I used almonds because that is what I had, but anything you like would work well.  Pour this on top of the chocolate mixture in your pan.

Finally, melt 1/2 c semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1/2 cup milk chocolate chips.  Spread the melted chocolate on top of the entire mixture.  Cover and chill for 2-3 hours until firm.  The parchment paper (or foil) will help you take the fudge out of the pan. Cut into small pieces (this is very rich) and package up to give away to all your friends.  Trust me, you don't need a house full of this fudge!

Candy-Bar Fudge
1/2 c butter
1/3 c cocoa powder
1/4 c brown sugar
1/4 c milk
3 1/2 c powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla
30 caramels, unwrapped
1 Tbsp water
2 cups peanuts
1/2 c semi-sweet chips
1/2 c milk chocolate chips

Line an 8x8 pan with foil or parchment, extending over the sides. Grease well and set aside.  In a microwave-safe bowl, melt butter. Add in cocoa powder, brown sugar and milk. Microwave until mixture boils, about 2 minutes. Stir in powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Spread into pan.  In another bowl, combine caramels and water. Microwave for 2-2/12 minutes until caramels are melted. Stir in nuts. Quickly spread over fudge layer.  If caramel mixture is hard to spread, microwave again for about 30 seconds.  In a 2-cup glass measuring cup, combine semi-sweet and milk chocolate pieces. Microwave until melted.  Spread over caramel layer.  Cover and chill for 2-3 hours, or until firm.