PREPARATION:

1. Butter 8-inch square pan; set aside. Lightly butter side of heavy, medium saucepan.
2. Combine half-and-half, butter, brown sugar and granulated sugar in prepared saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until sugar dissolves and mixture comes to a boil. Wash down side of pan with pastry brush frequently dipped in hot water to remove sugar crystals.
3. Add candy thermometer. Continue to cook until mixture reaches the softball stage (238°F).
4. Pour into large heat-proof mixer bowl. Cool to lukewarm (about 110°F).
5. Add vanilla and beat with heavy-duty electric mixer until thick. Beat in pecans when candy loses its gloss. Spread into prepared pan. Score fudge into squares with knife. Refrigerate until firm.
6. Cut into squares. Store in refrigerator.