Turtle Pudding

1 (21.5 ounce) package brownie mix
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 egg
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
13 caramel candies, unwrapped
Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream

Place a vegetable steamer or other low rack on the bottom of a 5-quart electric crock pot. Pour in 4 cups hot tap water and turn on the HIGH heat setting.

In a large bowl, combine brownie mix, water, oil, and egg. Beat to mix well. Stir in the chocolate chips and nuts.

Butter and dust with sugar a 2 1/2-quart souffl dish that fits in the crock pot. Turn the brownie mixture into the dish. Push the caramels partially into the top, but do not cover completely with the brownie mixture. Wrap the dish in a double thickness of foil. Tie with kitchen string to resemble a package for ease in lowering into the pot and removing. Place on the rack in the crock pot. Cover and cook on HIGH for 4 1/2 hours.

Remove the dish from the crock pot, uncover and let cool for 30 minutes. Serve warm, with whipped cream or ice cream.