Brown Sugar Fudge Penuche

For Preparation: Pre-warm the thermometer in hot water; use a 2-quart saucepan; butter the upper sides (inside) of the saucepan. Measure all ingredients except the vanilla and optionals, and dump into the saucepan. Grease and if necessary, line a 5- x 10-inch pan. Fill a glass with ice cubes and water and the sink with 1/2 inch of cold water.

Dissolve the sugar, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon over low heat until the butter melts, the gritty sounds cease, and the spoon glides smoothly over the bottom of the pan. Increase the heat to medium and bring to a boil.

Boil, after washing down any crystals that may have formed, with a pastry brush dipped in hot water from the thermometer bath, using as little water as possible. Introduce the pre-warmed thermometer. Reduce the heat while keeping the fudge at a boil. Stir no more than necessary.

Test the fudge mixture in the ice-cold water when the mixture thickens and bubbles become noisy. A ball, formed in ice water, should hold its shape until the heat from your hand begins to flatten it and should be al dente (slightly chewy) between 230 degrees and 240 degrees F. Because of the molasses and brown sugar, it can ball at a lower temperature than some other fudges.

Shock by placing the saucepan in the cold water in the sink. Seed by adding, without stirring, the vanilla. Then allow to cool.

Stir when lukewarm and "skin" forms on the top (110 degrees F). Return the thermometer to its hot water bath to soak clean. Stir the fudge thoroughly but not vigorously by hand, with an electric mixer, or with a food processor. Pause frequently to allow the fudge to react.

Watch for the fudge to thicken, lose its sheen, and become lighter in color or streaked with lighter shade. It will lose some of its heat and suddenly stiffen.

If mixing by had, the fudge will "snap" with each stroke. If using a mixer, mixer waves will become very distinct. If using a food processor, fudge will flow sluggishly back to the center when the processor is stopped.

Add the optional chopped nuts before the fudge totally candies. Pour into the prepared pan. Score and store when cool in an airtight container in the refrigerator or at room temperature.