CHOCOLATE BILLIONAIRES

CHOCOLATE BILLIONAIRES

1 package (14 ounces) caramels

3 tablespoons water

1-1/2 cups chopped pecans

1 cup crisp rice cereal

3 cups milk chocolate chips

1-1/2 teaspoons shortening Line two baking sheets with waxed paper; grease the paper and set

aside. In a large heavy saucepan, combine the caramels and water;

cook and stir over low heat until smooth. Stir in pecans and cereal

until coated. Drop by teaspoonfuls onto prepared pans. Refrigerate

for 10 minutes or until firm.

Meanwhile, in a microwave, melt chocolate chips and shortening; stir

until smooth. Dip candy into chocolate, coating all sides; allow

excess to drip off. Place on prepared pans. Refrigerate until set.

Store in an airtight container. Yield: about 2 pounds.