Famous Fudge

Directions

1. 1
   Butter a 9-inch square pan and set aside.
2. 2
   In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, milk and butter and then bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly to dissolve sugar.
3. 3
   Insert a candy thermometer so that it doesn't touch the bottom of the pan and cook, without stirring, until temperature reaches 238F (115C) or soft-ball-stage, watching very carefully during the final minutes of cooking.
4. 4
   Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and the nuts, if using.
5. 5
   With a wooden spoon and a lot of elbow grease, beat fudge until it begins to thicken, about 7 to 10 minutes.
6. 6
   Pour into prepared pan and let cool; score with a sharp knife into squares or bars before the fudge is fully set.