CRUST:

1/4 c. flour
1/2 c. powdered sugar
1/2 c. butter, cut in

Bake in 9x13 pan 10-12 minutes at 350 degrees.

FILLING:

14 oz. pkg. caramels
1/3 c. half and half or evaporated milk
1/4 c. butter

Microwave filling in 4-cup dish on HIGH for 3-4 minutes.

TOPPING:

6 oz. pkg. semi-sweet chocolate
3 tbsp. shortening

In 2-cup dish microwave topping on HIGH 1 1/2 minutes. Stir until smooth, then add 1/4 cup Rice Krispies. Spread topping over filling. Cut into 36 bars.