Almond Joy Candy

1 1/2 cups butter
1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 pound or 5 1/3 cups shredded coconut (sweetened)
2 cups toasted almonds, chopped
2 cups (12 oz.) semisweet chocolate chips
1 Tablespoon shortening

1. Line a 9 x 13' pan with lightly buttered waxed paper or aluminum foil. set aside.
2. Melt butter in large saucepan, add sweetened condensed milk and vanilla, mix well.
3. Stir in coconut and almonds, mix well.
4. Press into prepared pan and refrigerate until firm
5. Invert pan onto a large cutting board, peel off paper and cut candy into small squares.
6. Melt chocolate and shortening in double boiler over simmering water, stirring constantly.
7. Dip candy pieces in chocolate with a fork.
8. Place on waxed paper-lined baking sheets and allow to dry at room temp. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Makes approx. 4 pound of candy.