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Millionaire Shortbread (Caramel Chocolate Layers) Recipe

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4.6 from 126 reviews

Millionaire Shortbread is a decadent layered dessert featuring a buttery shortbread base, a rich caramel middle, and a smooth chocolate topping. This indulgent treat combines the perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Shortbread Base

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 0.25 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Caramel Layer

  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter
  • 0.5 cup brown sugar
  • 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
  • 0.25 cup light corn syrup
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch salt

Chocolate Topping

  • 8 oz semisweet or milk chocolate (chopped)
  • 1 tbsp butter or cream (optional, for smoothness)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven and pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease removal of the bars later.
  2. Make the shortbread dough: In a mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup softened unsalted butter and 0.5 cup granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2 cups all-purpose flour, and 0.25 teaspoon salt. Combine everything until a dough forms.
  3. Bake the shortbread base: Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes or until the shortbread turns golden brown. Remove from oven and allow it to cool completely before adding the next layer.
  4. Cook the caramel layer: In a medium saucepan, combine 0.5 cup unsalted butter, 0.5 cup brown sugar, 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk, and 0.25 cup light corn syrup. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly for 8–10 minutes, until the mixture becomes golden and thickened. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
  5. Add the caramel to the shortbread: Pour the cooked caramel evenly over the cooled shortbread base. Using a spatula, spread it out smoothly to cover the entire surface. Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for 30 minutes to let the caramel set.
  6. Prepare the chocolate topping: Melt 8 ounces of chopped semisweet or milk chocolate along with 1 tablespoon butter or cream (if using) either in a microwave using short bursts or over a double boiler until smooth.
  7. Finish the bars: Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Return the pan to the refrigerator and chill for 1–2 hours until firm.
  8. Serve: Once fully set, slice into bars and serve these rich and indulgent Millionaire Shortbread treats.

Notes

  • Ensure the shortbread base is completely cooled before adding the caramel to prevent it from melting.
  • Stir the caramel continuously to avoid burning and achieve a smooth texture.
  • For a richer chocolate layer, use high-quality chocolate and add the optional butter or cream to enhance smoothness.
  • Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
  • Allow bars to come to room temperature for a few minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Keywords: Millionaire Shortbread, caramel chocolate bars, layered dessert, shortbread recipe, easy dessert, homemade bars

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