Peppermint Sticks

A great gift for the holidays or a nice treat with a cup of hot chocolate. You can use bittersweet chocolate and vary the nuts as you like.

• Ready In: 20 mins
• Serves: 16
• Yields: 16 sticks

Ingredients

• 4  ounces  semisweet chocolate, chopped
• 1  teaspoon shortening
• 2⁄3 cup pecans, chopped
• 16  peppermint stick candy, 3-4 inches long

Directions

1. Combine the chocolate and shortening in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring until melted. Transfer to a bowl. (This part of the recipe can also be done in a microwave).
2. Spread the pecans onto a piece of waxed paper. Dip one end of the peppermint stick into the chocolate and then roll in the chopped nuts. Place on waxed paper to set.
3. Wrap each candy stick in clear plastic and tie the ends.