Coconut Delight Candy

Rich candy squares loaded with coconut, raisins, candied pineapple and candied cherries, topped with creamy milk chocolate.

Recipe Ingredients:

5 2/3 cups sweetened flaked coconut
1/2 cup chopped candied pineapple
1/4 cup chopped candied cherries
3/4 cup golden raisins
3/4 cup chopped raisins
3 cups light corn syrup
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup water
2 cups granulated sugar
1 (12-ounce) package milk chocolate chips
1 tablespoon vegetables shortening (do not use butter, margarine, spread or oil)

Cooking Directions:

1. Line a 13 x 9 x2-inch baking pan with lightly buttered waxed paper or aluminum foil. Set aside.
2. Place coconut, candied fruit, raisins and pecans in a large bowl and mix well. Set aside.
3. In a saucepan combine corn syrup, salt, water and sugar. Cover tightly
   and bring to a boil. Remove cover and cook to the soft ball stage, 236°F (110°C) or when mixture forms a soft ball when dropped in cold water but flattens when removed.
4. Pour cooked syrup over fruit and nut mixture; mix thoroughly and pour into prepared pan.
5. Melt chocolate with shortening in double boiler over simmering water. Spread evenly over candy mixture. Allow to cool at room temperature.
6. Remove candy from pan; peel off waxed paper and cut into 1-inch squares.

Makes 117 (1-inch) squares.