Christmas Fudge

Description
Contributed by Catsrecipes Y-Group
 * Makes about 4 pounds.

Ingredients

 * 1 cup dried preserved pineapple
 * ½ cup halved candied cherries
 * 1½ cups halved Brazil nuts
 * 1½ cups broken walnuts
 * 2 cups pecan halves
 * 3 cups granulated sugar
 * 1½ cup light cream
 * 1 cup white corn syrup
 * 1 teaspoon salt
 * 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Directions

 * 1) Grease two 9x9x2 inch pans.
 * 2) Combine first 5 ingredients.
 * 3) Combine sugar with next three ingredients in 3-quart saucepan and heat over low heat until sugar is dissolved (stir mixture).
 * 4) Cover pan and bring mixture to boil; boil 1 minute, or until all sugar crystals on side of pan have melted.
 * 5) Remove cover (if using candy thermometer, set in place)
 * 6) Continue gentle cooking, stirring occasionally, until mixture reaches 236 degrees or until a little mixture in cold water forms softball.
 * 7) Remove from heat; add vanilla, then, with electric mixer set at medium speed, or with spoon, beat until mixture is creamy and begins to hold shape.
 * 8) Thoroughly mix in fruits.
 * 9) Press into pan and chill until firm enough to cut.