SODA CRACKER COOKIES

Soda crackers, about 35 1 cup brown sugar

1 cup butter

Milk chocolate candy bars (enough to cover a 10x15-inch jellyroll pan)

1 cup finely chopped pecans, approximately

Heat oven to 300 F. Place crackers side by side on a 10x15-inch jellyroll pan.

In a medium saucepan, melt sugar and butter. Bring to boil and cook 2 minutes. Pour over crackers and bake 10-12 minutes. Remove from oven and place plain chocolate candy bars over crackers, spreading evenly while hot. Sprinkle with nuts and refrigerate until firm. Cut in squares. — Maxine Hunt, Ponca City (Dec. 14, 2003)

June Arebalo, of Alva, makes this recipe using 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips instead of candy bars.

Others sharing included Reba Corley, Marietta, Georgia.; Melissa Speed, Ada; Joy Winter, Del City; Teri Walls, Owasso; and M. Hays, Oklahoma City. — Melba

DEAR MELBA: Yes, Thanksgiving is here, and Christmas will be here before we know it. To be ready, let’s polish the silver.

Line the kitchen sink with aluminum foil, bright side up. Add layer of silverware. Pour in ½-cup dish washing detergent and add enough very hot water to cover the silverware. Soak about five minutes. Remove, rinse well and dry. Enjoy. — Nellie W.

If you have a problem other readers might help solve or an idea you’d like to share, email mlovelace@oklahoman.com or write to Melba’s Swap Shop, Box 25125, Oklahoma City, OK 73125. Please include your name and address.