# FUDGY MIX-UPS
**Makes 64 1-inch pieces**

> Fudge was first made (by mistake!) in the United States in the late 1800s. It soon became a popular candy to make at home—just like today!

**KITCHEN TALK:** You can make this superrich treat in the microwave. Plus, pick your favorite fudge flavors—like chocolate, butterscotch, white chocolate, and peanut butter. Ask a grown-up for help using the microwave and handling hot bowls.

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### Ingredients
*   **2 tablespoons salted butter**, cut into small pieces, plus more for greasing
*   **3 cups (18 ounces) baking chips**, such as semisweet, milk, or white chocolate chips; peanut butter chips; or butterscotch chips
*   **1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk**
*   **1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract** or other extract (optional)
*   **Kosher salt or flaky sea salt** (optional)

### Instructions
1.  Grease an 8-inch square baking dish with butter. Line the baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some extra parchment paper hanging over two sides, then grease the parchment, too.
2.  In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter, baking chips, and condensed milk. Microwave for 2 minutes, then stir with a rubber spatula. Microwave for 20 more seconds, then stir again. Continue until everything is melted and smooth, up to 1 more minute.
3.  Add the vanilla and add-ins (if using). Stir in a figure-eight pattern to make sure these goodies will be in every bite! Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and use a spatula to smooth out the surface. Top with a sprinkle of salt, if you want.
4.  Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator until the fudge doesn't move when you jiggle the dish, at least 2 hours or preferably overnight.
5.  When you're ready to serve the fudge, use the extra parchment paper as "handles" to lift the fudge out of the baking dish and place it on a cutting board. Cut the fudge into 1-inch squares and serve. Store leftover fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

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## TRY THESE COMBINATIONS

**CHOCOLATE-PEANUT BUTTER**
Make half a recipe of fudge with dark, semisweet, or milk chocolate chips, and make the other half with peanut butter chips. After microwaving, pour the chocolate fudge into the baking dish, then pour the peanut butter fudge on top and swirl them together using a spoon or butter knife.

**PEPPERMINT**
White chocolate chips, 1 teaspoon peppermint extract, ¼ teaspoon kosher salt, and crushed candy canes

**SALTED CARAMEL**
Butterscotch chips, vanilla extract, and flaky salt on top

**Sweet Combo Ideas:**
*   For a salty combo, mix in chopped nuts, chopped cookies, and crushed pretzels!
*   For a sweet combo, mix in sprinkles, mini marshmallows, and crushed candy!