1/2 c. shortening
1 1/4 c. flour
1 c. sugar
2 1/2 tsp. baking powder
3/4 tsp. salt
2/3 c. milk
2 env. (1 oz. each) premelted unsweetened chocolate
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 c. salted pecan, if desired

TOPPING:

1/2 c. chocolate syrup
1/2 c. warm water
1/3 c. sugar

Mix in separate bowl. Grease 10 inch oven proof skillet. In large mixing bowl. Combine all ingredients. Mix well. Spread batter into skillet. Sprinkle with pecans. Spoon topping over batter. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes or until wooden pick comes out clean.