Peppermint Pretzel Canes

6 oz almond bark or vanilla-flavored candy coating, cut into pieces
2 T shortening
2/3 c finely crushed peppermint candies (24 candies)*
12 (8 1/2-inch) pretzel rods (from 11-oz pkg)

Line cookie sheet with waxed paper. Melt almond bark and shortening in medium saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Pour into 11x7-inch baking dish or other shallow dish; carefully set baking dish in hot water to keep almond bark soft. (Do not get any water int almond bark.) Sprinkle candy over separate sheet of waxed paper. Roll pretzels in almond bark; allow excess to drip off. Roll in crushed candy. Place on lined cookie sheet; let stand until set. 12 pretzels

* To crush peppermint candies, place in double thickness of heavy-duty resealable plastic bags; seal. Place on cutting board; hit with hammer to crush.