Festive Food Gifts

Slip bite-size pieces of this classic candy into wrapped boxes; top with a wide bow.

MAKES: 36 pieces. PREP: 10 minutes. COOK: 20 minutes.

1 1/2 cups maple syrup
1 3/4 cups sugar
2/3 cup heavy cream or 5-ounce can evaporated milk
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, cubed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chopped walnuts

1. Line an 8-inch square baking pan with nonstick foil. Coat foil with nonstick cooking spray. 2. Combine syrup, sugar, heavy cream and salt in a medium-size saucepan. Bring to boiling over medium-high heat, stirring. Once boiling, cook 7 to 8 minutes or until mixture registers 238 degrees on a candy thermometer. 3. Remove pan from heat; with an electric mixer, beat in butter and vanilla. Continue to beat on high power for 8 to 9 minutes, or until thickened, light in color, and fudge loses its glossy finish. Stir in nuts and spread into prepared pan. Let stand until firm, about 25 minutes. Cut into squares.