A luscious and easy-to-make chocolate fudge sauce perfect for desserts or as a hot chocolate base.
Combine the half-and-half, sugar, chocolate chips, and salt in a small saucepan.
Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent the sauce from scorching.
Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it begins to boil.
Stirring constantly ensures the chocolate melts evenly and prevents burning.
Reduce the heat and cook for 1-2 minutes, continuing to stir, until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
The sauce is ready when it coats the back of a spoon.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Adding vanilla off the heat preserves its delicate flavor.
Let the sauce cool slightly before serving, or store it for later use.
Serve warm for a pourable consistency or cool for a thicker texture.