Indulge in the decadent layers of buttery shortbread, rich caramel, and smooth chocolate with this irresistible Millionaire Shortbread recipe.
Also known as caramel slice or caramel shortbread, this classic treat is a favorite for its luxurious flavors and satisfying textures.
Perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying as a special indulgence for yourself, this Millionaire Shortbread is sure to impress.
Follow along to learn how to make this delightful dessert in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Shortbread:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Caramel Layer:
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Topping:
- 8 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Equipment
- 9×9 inch square baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Microwave-safe bowl
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch square baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
Make the Shortbread:
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the flour and salt to the butter mixture and mix until combined and crumbly.
Press the shortbread dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
Bake the Shortbread:
Bake the shortbread in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan.
Prepare the Caramel Layer:
In a saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low and continue to cook, stirring constantly, for 5-7 minutes, or until the caramel thickens and turns a golden brown color.
Remove the caramel from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Pour the caramel evenly over the cooled shortbread layer.
Chill the Millionaire Shortbread:
Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 hour, or until the caramel layer is set.
Make the Chocolate Topping:
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped chocolate and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
Pour the melted chocolate over the chilled caramel layer, spreading it into an even layer with a spatula.
Chill Again:
Return the pan to the refrigerator and chill for an additional 30 minutes, or until the chocolate layer is set.
Slice and Serve:
Once the chocolate layer is set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the Millionaire Shortbread out of the pan.
Use a sharp knife to slice the shortbread into squares or bars.
Serve and enjoy this indulgent treat!
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover Millionaire Shortbread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information:
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on portion size and specific ingredients used.
Calories: 280 kcal
Total Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 80mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 20g
Protein: 3g
FAQs
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of making homemade caramel?
Yes, you can use store-bought caramel sauce to save time.
Simply heat the caramel sauce slightly before pouring it over the cooled shortbread layer.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate for the topping?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter flavor.
Adjust the amount of sugar in the caramel layer accordingly to balance the sweetness.
How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking when slicing the shortbread?
To prevent the chocolate from cracking, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and dried before slicing.
This will help create clean, smooth cuts through the chocolate layer.
Can I freeze Millionaire Shortbread?
Yes, Millionaire Shortbread freezes well.
Wrap the sliced bars tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Can I add nuts or other toppings to the shortbread?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Millionaire Shortbread with chopped nuts, sprinkles, or sea salt sprinkled on top of the chocolate layer before it sets.