Recipe: Walnut Penuche (microwave)

Walnut Penuche (microwave)
Source: alt.cooking-chien/pizzawidow

I found this in a magazine one time, I can't remember which one but it's my favorite all time homemade candy.
Makes 36 pieces, or 1 big happy meal!

1 1/2 cups walnuts (6 oz.) chopped
2/3 cup butter or margarine
1 cup packed light brown sugar
1 (14 oz) can sweetened, condensed milk
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla

Line an 8-inch square pan with foil. grease lightly

Put the nuts in the microwave 6-7 mins. until lightly toasted

Melt the butter in a 2 1/2 qt. bowl. Stir in the sugar and milk until blended. Microwave, uncovered on high 7-9 mins. stirring 4 times, until the sugar has dissolved, the mix is thick, and is a medium caramel color. Add the vanilla (careful!, it's hot!) Beat with a mixer 3-4 minutes, until smooth and shiny. Stir in the walnuts (or pecans if you like) Spread in the greased pan. Chill. Peel off the foil and cut in 1-inch squares. Store in a cool place.