FUDGE SAUCE

Ingredients

·         6 ounces good quality semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate, coarsely chopped (you also can use good quality semi-sweet chocolate chips)

·         ¼ cup sugar

·         2 tablespoons butter

·         1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract

·         a pinch of sea salt

·         ½ cup half & half, a bit more to thin, if needed

Instructions

1.      Place all ingredients except half and half into a blender container.

2.      Measure half and half into a medium size microwave-safe bowl or measuring cup. Heat in the microwave on high power for 75-90 seconds or until it's vigorously boiling*. Make sure to use a big enough container to allow liquid to boil without rising over the top.

3.      Immediately pour over contents into blender and cover. Holding the lid to keep it securely in place, blend on medium-high speed for 1 minute. Remove cover and scrape down sides of blender container with a rubber spatula. Cover and blend again for another minute. Sauce should be smooth, silky and thick. Depending on the type of chocolate you use, the sauce may be too thick at this point. If you want to thin it a bit, add more half and half, 2-3 teaspoons at a time and blend briefly till combined. Continue until desired consistency is reached.

4.      Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container or glass jar. Keeps for 1-2 weeks. Sauce will get thicker when chilled, but will return to a looser consistency when warmed. Heat before serving on medium power in the microwave, stirring every 15 seconds until desired temperature.

5.      Makes approximately 1 cup of chocolate sauce

Notes

*Half and half can also be heated on the stove top over medium heat until vigorously boiling. Stir frequently.