Coat it in chocolate and you'll please just about everyone!

Chocolate-Dipped Dried Fruits & Snacks

2 cups (12 ounce package) milk or semisweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons vegetable shortening (do not use butter, margarine or oil)
Suggested Snacks: cookies, pretzels, dried apricots

1. Line cookie sheet with wax paper.
2. Place chocolate chips and shortening in small microwave-safe bowl. Microwave at HIGH (100%) 1 minute; stir. If necessary, microwave at HIGH an additional 10 seconds at a time, stirring after each heating, just until chips are melted and mixture is smooth when stirred. Cool slightly.
3. Dip 2/3 of each "snack" into melted chocolate mixture. Shake gently to remove excess chocolate.
4. Place on prepared cookie sheet. Refrigerate, uncovered, about 30 minutes or until coating is firm. Store in airtight container in cool place.

Makes about 1 cup chocolate coating.