Nutty Caramel Clusters

Directions

1. 1
   Grease baking sheet or line with wax paper; set aside.
2. 2
   In a 1-quart microwave-safe casserole, combine caramels, butter and milk.
3. 3
   Cook, uncovered, on High for 1 to 2 minutes or until soft enough to stir smooth, stirring once during cooking.
4. 4
   Stir in nuts.
5. 5
   Drop from a teaspoon onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. 6
   In a 1-cup glass measure, combine chocolate chips and shortening. Cook, uncovered, on High, for 1 to 2 minutes, or until soft enough to stir smooth, stirring once during cooking.
7. 7
   Just like caramels, chocolate pieces retain their shape even when melted.
8. 8
   Drizzle chocolate over each cluster.
9. 9
   Cool to room temperature.
10. 10
    Cover and chill until firm.
11. 11
    Store tightly covered in the refrigerator. Yields about 25 pieces.