1 (14 oz.) pkg. caramels
1 (14 oz.) sweetened condensed milk
1 1/4 c. shortening, divided
2 c. all-purpose flour
1/2 c. unsweetened cocoa
1 tsp. baking soda
1/4 tsp. salt
2 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 c. water
1/2 c. buttermilk or sour milk
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla
1 1/2 c. pecans, coarsely chopped

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In heavy saucepan, combine caramels, sweetened condensed milk and 1/2 cup shortening. Over medium heat, cook and stir until melted and smooth. In medium bowl, combine flour, cocoa, baking soda and salt. In large bowl, beat sugar and remaining 3/4 cup shortening until fluffy. Beat in eggs. In small bowl, combine water, buttermilk and vanilla; add alternately with flour mixture beating well. Spread 1/2 the batter into greased 13 x 9 inch pan. Bake 15 minutes or until center is set. Spoon caramel mixture evenly over cake. Spread remaining batter evenly over caramel. Sprinkle with nuts. Bake 40 minutes or until cake springs back when touched. Loosen from sides of pan while still warm. Cool completely. Enjoy!