Nutty Caramel Clusters

25 caramels

1 tbsp butter

1 tbsp milk

1 cup sliced almonds

1/2 cup salted dry roasted peanuts

1/2 cup pecan halves

1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

 2 tsp shortening

In a microwave safe dish, combine the caramels, butter and milk.  Microwave on high, uncovered, for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes or until cramels are melted, stirring once.  Stir in the almonds, peanuts and pecans.  Drop by tablespoonful onto waxed paper-lined baking sheets.

In a microwave safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and shorteding; stir until blended.  Spoon over clusters.  Refrigerate until set.  Store in the refrigerator.  Yield: 1 1/2 dozen.