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1
Combine all caramel ingredients except vanilla in heavy, non-stick 1-quart saucepan.
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2
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, 11-15 minutes or until butter is melted and mixture comes to a boil.
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3
Continue cooking until candy thermometer reaches 240F to 244F.
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4
Remove from heat; stir in vanilla.
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5
Pour hot caramel mixture into small heat resistant measuring cup or bowl.
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6
Let cool 5-10 minutes or until firm enough to spoon.
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7
Line 2 baking sheets with parchment or waxed paper.
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8
Lay 18 pretzel crisps on each baking sheet.
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9
Spoon about 1 teaspoon caramel on top of each pretzel crisp.
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10
Immediately insert licorice pieces into caramel for legs.
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11
Let stand 10 minutes or until caramel is cool and almost firm.
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12
Combine chocolate chips and shortening in bowl.
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13
Microwave 1 minute; stir until chocolate is melted and smooth.
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14
Spread 1/4 teaspoon chocolate near top of each caramel critter.
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15
Top with 2 chocolate pieces for eyes and 2 almond halves for teeth.
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16
Make edible spider web by printing PDF template.
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17
Place under layer of wax paper; trace outline of spider web using your favorite white frosting.
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18
Set Chocolate Caramel Critters on top.