Makes 32 Eggs

1 c Butter; softened
3 lb Icing sugar
2/3 c Condensed milk
1 tb Vanilla
1/2 ts Salt
1 lb Semisweet chocolate,chopped
2 tb Vegetable shortening

ICING
2 lb Icing sugar
1 c Vegetable shortening
1/2 c Milk
Food colouring (optl)

To increase variety, divide dough into four portions and use extra flavors. In a large bowl, beat butter until fluffy; gradually beat in icing sugar, milk, vanilla and salt. On work surface, knead until smooth. Shape into 32 eggs. Refrigerate for 1 hour or until firm.

In a bowl over hot (not boiling) water, melt chocolate with shortening; remove from heat. Using 2 forks, dip 1 egg into chocolate to coat; shake off excess. Repeat with remaining eggs. Place on waxed paper-lined baking sheets; refrigerate until chocolate is set. Icing: In a large bowl, gradually beat sugar into shortening until fluffy. Beat in milk until smooth. Divide into batches; beat in food colouring (if using). Decorate eggs.

Extra Flavors: (per one-quarter of egg mixture) Chocolate: beat in 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder Maple Walnut: add 2 tbsp chopped walnuts and 1/2 tsp maple extract Citrus: beat in 1 tbsp grated orange rind. A little work, but well worth the effort.