Tootsie Roll Fudge

I always hit the candy aisles after holidays.  I can get my candy as much as 75% off regular price and I then use it for decorating cakes, cookies, cupcakes, etc throughout the year.  Yes, I will admit that I do eat a teeny, tiny portion of it (I see those eyes rolling!!!!) but honestly, I do it because I want to be thrifty!.  Last year I had finally found those little Tootsie Rolls on clearance and was able to make a recipe that I had stored away from many years ago.  Tootsie Roll fudge is an easy recipe and its a great way to get the kids involved (hey, somebody has to unwrap all those candies!)

Tootsie Roll Fudge

adapted from Taste of Home magazine

Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter

2 cups Tootsie Roll Midgees

2 tablespoons peanut butter

3-3/4 cups confectioners' sugar

2 tablespoons milk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Sprinkles

Directions

Line a 9-in. square pan with foil. Grease the foil with 1 teaspoon butter or spray with nonstick cooking spray; set aside. 

In a heavy saucepan, melt the Tootsie Rolls, peanut butter and remaining butter over low heat, stirring constantly.

 Gradually stir in the confectioners' sugar, milk and vanilla (mixture will be very thick). 

Spread into prepared pan. Using a sharp knife, score the surface into 1-in. squares. 

Top with sprinkles or you may choose to top with holiday M&M candies. Cool. 

Using foil, remove fudge from pan; cut into squares. Store in an airtight container. 

Yield: about 2 pounds.