2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips, optional
Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper or grease it
Combine sugar, cocoa powder, milk, butter, and salt in a saucepan
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil
Boil for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly
Remove from heat
Stir in vanilla extract and optional nuts or chocolate chips
Beat the mixture until it thickens slightly
Pour into the prepared pan
Spread evenly
Let cool at room temperature until set
Cut into squares