1 (16 oz.) jar maraschino cherries
2/3 c. butter
1 (6 oz.) pkg. (1 c.) semi-sweet chocolate pieces
1 c. sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
2 eggs, beaten
1 1/4 c. all-purpose flour
3/4 c. Quaker oats (quick or old fashioned)
1 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 c. chopped nuts (optional)
2 tsp. vegetable shortening

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Drain cherries; reserve 12 and chop remainder. In large saucepan, melt butter and 1/2 cup chocolate pieces over low heat; stir until melted. Remove from heat; cool slightly. Add sugar, vanilla and eggs. Stir in combined dry ingredients, chopped cherries, and nuts. Spread into greased 9x13x2 inch pan. Bake about 25 minutes or until brownies pull away form the sides of the pan. Cool completely.

Halve reserved cherries; place on top of brownies. In heavy saucepan over low heat, melt remaining 1/2 cup chocolate pieces and shortening; stir until mixture is melted and smooth. Drizzle over brownies; cut into 2 1/2 inch squares. Store in airtight container. Makes 2 dozen.