Butter Pecan Fudge

1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 cup pecan halves, toasted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups confectioners' sugar

Coat an 8-inch square baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

In a large saucepan, bring the butter, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently. Allow to boil for 5 minutes, stirring constantly, then remove the pan from the heat.

Stir in the pecans and vanilla. Add the confectioners' sugar and stir until smooth and well combined. Spread the mixture into the baking dish.

Allow to cool to room temperature then cut into 1-inch squares and serve, or store in an airtight container until ready to serve.

Yields: about 5 dozen pieces

Variation: use 1 cup brown sugar in lieu of brown sugar and granulated sugar...tastes like pralines.