1 (14 oz.) pkg. caramels
1 1/2 tbsp. milk
1 (12 oz.) chocolate chips
2 c. chopped pecans
1 tbsp. vegetable shortening

Place caramels in 2-quart casserole. Microwave on high for 1 to 1 1/4 minutes. Stir well. Add milk to caramels and microwave on high for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds. Stir well until smooth. Add pecans and mix well. Drop by teaspoons onto buttered wax paper. Cool, cover and chill.

Combine chocolate chips and shortening in a 4-cup glass measuring cup. Microwave on medium for 3 to 4 minutes or until morsels are softened; stir well. Dip caramel clusters into chocolate and return to wax paper. Chill. Store candy in refrigerator.