Puttin’-on-The-Ritz Candy

1 jar (12 1/4 ounces) caramel ice cream topping
1 cup chopped pecans
36 Ritz butter-flavored crackers
1 cup (6 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips
1 tablespoon shortening

In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the caramel topping and pecans on high for 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently until mixture is thickened. Cool for 5 minutes. Place the crackers on waxed paper-lined baking sheets. Spoon 1 teaspoon caramel mixture over each cracker. Refrigerate for 1 hour.

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and shortening; stir until smooth. Dip the bottom of each cracker in chocolate; shake off excess. Place caramel side down on waxed paper-lined pans. Refrigerate for 1 hour until set. Store in airtight container.

Yield: 3 dozen