Graham Cracker Fudge

I have been making this fudge during the Holidays since the early 1970's.  It is divine!



1 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/3 cup melted butter

3 cups semisweet chocolate, chopped, or chips

1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk

1 1/2 to 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

3 ounces cream cheese, softened

1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)



Heat oven to 375 degrees F. Line a 9-inch square pan with foil.



Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar and butter well in a small bowl. Press into bottom of foil lined pan. Bake for 8 minutes.



In a heavy saucepan, over low heat, combine chocolate, condensed milk and vanilla extract. Stir until warm and melted. Remove from heat and stir in cream cheese until well blended. Stir in nuts. Spread over prepared crust. Chill until firm.



Remove from pan, remove foil and cut into small squares. Store covered in refrigerator.