Chocolate Dipped Brownies
3/4 cup sugar
1/3 cup butter or margarine
2 tablespoons water
4 cups (24 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips, divided
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 eggs
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
2 tablespoons shortening
1/2 cup chopped pecans, toasted
In a saucepan over medium heat, bring sugar, butter and water to a boil; remove from the heat. Stir in 1 cup of chocolate chips and vanilla; stir until smooth. Cool for 5 minutes. Beat in eggs, one at a time, until well mixed. Combine flour, salt and baking soda; stir into chocolate mixture. Stir in another cup of chips. Pour into a greased 9-in, square baking pan. Bake at 325 for 35 minutes. Cool completely. Place in the freezer for 30-40 minutes (do not freeze completely). Cut into bars. In a microwave or double boiler, melt remaining chips with shortening; stir until smooth. Using a small fork, dip brownies to completely coat; shake off excess. Place on waxed paper-lined baking sheets; immediately sprinkle with nuts. Allow to harden. Store in an airtight container in a cool place. Yield: 3 dozen.