Prepare the Pan: Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later. Lightly grease the paper with cooking spray.
Melt the Chocolate: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
Add Vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract until well incorporated.
Layer the Fudge: Pour half of the chocolate mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly across the bottom.
Add Caramel and Pecans: Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the chocolate layer, and sprinkle ½ cup of chopped pecans on top.
Add More Chocolate: Pour the remaining chocolate mixture on top of the caramel and pecans, spreading it evenly to cover all.
Finish with Caramel and Nuts: Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the top layer of chocolate and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of pecans.
Set the Fudge: Place the baking dish in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge is fully set.
Slice and Serve: Once set, remove the fudge from the baking dish using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares, sprinkle a small pinch of sea salt on top of each piece, and enjoy!
Notes
Arrange the fudge squares on a decorative platter, and drizzle a bit more caramel sauce over the top for an elegant touch. Garnish with additional chopped pecans for added texture and appeal.