Bobbe's Best Microwave Fudge

1-lb confectioner's (powdered) sugar (approx 3-3/4 cups)
2/3-cup unsweetened cocoa
1/4-tsp salt
1/4-cup milk
2-1/4 tsp vanilla
1/2-cup butter or margarine (1 stick)
1/2-cup chopped nuts (optional)

In large, microwave-safe bowl, combine powdered sugar, cocoa and salt. Stir in milk and vanilla. Mix well. Place butter or margarine on top of mixture. Microwave on high for two minutes. Remove from microwave, beat with wooden spoon until smooth. Stir in nuts. Spread mixture in foil-lined or buttered 8" x 8" baking pan. Chill one hour. Cut into squares.

I originally got this recipe from my mom, who found it in one of those little product brochures; this one for the California Pistachio Growers, I believe. The original recipe called for 2 tsp vanilla and 1/4 tsp pistachio extract. I have always just used vanilla, 2-1/4 tsp, but at Christmas, I like to use peppermint extract as well, reducing the vanilla to 2 tsp and adding 1/4 tsp of peppermint! Use your imagination and if you discover something really spectacular, drop me a line and let me know!