Mix together: confectioner's sugar, cocoa and pecans.
Melt together: margarine, velveeta cheese and vanilla.
Add all ingredients together and pour into a 9" X 13" pan. Pat with butter coated fingers, chill and cut.
Emulsification Mechanics
Processed cheese products contain sodium citrate, an emulsifying salt that binds moisture and fat tightly together. This chemical property prevents the heavy volume of sugar and cocoa from seizing into a grainy mass during mixing. Soften the margarine and cheese completely to room temperature before combining to ensure a smooth emulsion without oil separation.
Dietary Adaptations
Plant-based margarines work reliably as a 1:1 substitute for dairy margarine, provided they maintain a fat content of at least 80 percent. Vegan cheddar blocks can replace processed cheese products, though texture adjustments may occur due to differing emulsifier profiles. Sift the four pounds of confectioner's sugar through a fine-mesh sieve beforehand to eliminate stubborn lumps that resist melting into the fat matrix.
Storage Protocols
Store finished fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks to maintain firmness. Chilling solidifies the fat content fully, allowing clean cuts with a sharp chef's knife when portioning pieces. Leftover portions freeze successfully for up to three months when wrapped tightly in parchment paper and heavy-duty aluminum foil.