Almond Joy Brownies

Almond Joy Brownies SERVINGS 16 4 ounces almond joy candy bars (4 whole regular sized candy bars or 8 miniature candy bars) 1⁄2 cup butter (I prefer butter, but original recipe called for shortening) or 1⁄2 cup shortening (I prefer butter, but original recipe called for shortening) 1 cup sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla 2 eggs 1 cup all-purpose flour 1⁄2 teaspoon salt 1⁄2 cup chopped almonds Heat oven to 350°F. Grease 9-inch square pan. In medium saucepan over low heat, melt candy bars and shortening, stirring occasionally until chocolate and shortening are melted. Add sugar and vanilla; blend well. Add eggs 1 at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in flour, salt and chopped almonds; mix well. Spread in greased pan. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until top springs back when touched lightly in center. Cool completely; cut into bars.