Ingredients
3/4 cup sugar1/3 cup butter, cubed2 tablespoons water4 cups semisweet chocolate chips, divided1 teaspoon vanilla extract2 large eggs3/4 cup all-purpose flour1/2 teaspoon salt1/4 teaspoon baking soda2 tablespoons shorteningChopped pecans, jimmies and/or nonpareils, optional
Preparation
In a large saucepan, bring the sugar, butter and water to a boil over medium heat. Remove from the heat; stir in 1 cup chocolate chips and vanilla until smooth. Cool for 5 minutes. Beat in eggs. Combine the flour, salt and baking soda; add to chocolate mixture. Stir in 1 cup chocolate chips.
Pour into a greased 9-in. square baking pan. Bake at 325° for 35 minutes or until set. Cool completely on a wire rack.
Place in the freezer for 30-40 minutes or until firm (do not freeze completely). Cut into bars.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt remaining chips and shortening; stir until smooth. Using a small fork, dip brownies to completely coat; allow excess to drip off. Place on waxed paper-lined baking sheets. Sprinkle with pecans, jimmies and/or nonpareils if desired. Let stand until set. Store in an airtight container.
