Easy White Chocolate Fudge

1 large (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
12 oz. white chocolate bark or chips
3/4 cup chopped pecans

Directions:
1. Prepare an 8x8-inch pan by spraying it well with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.
2. Place cream cheese. Stir to soften. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, stirring after each addition. After all the powdered sugar is stirred in, beat with an electric mixer until smooth.
3. Place white chocolate in a microwave-proof container. Microwave on 100% power for 1 minute. Reduce power to 50% and heat until melted, stirring every 30 seconds so mixture will not burn.
4. Pour melted chocolate into powdered sugar mixture and beat thoroughly. Stir in the pecans.
5. Pour mixture into prepared 8x8-inch pan. Refrigerate until firm. Cut into small squares. Store in refrigerator in a plastic food-storage container, with waxed paper on the bottom and beneath each layer of candy.

Notes:
This is my adaptation of a prize winning recipe by Lee Ann Moore of Glasgow, Kentucky, that was published in the December, 2004, Kentucky Living print edition.