Millionaire Shortbread: 1 Divine Caramel Chocolate

Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate has a way of making any day feel special. I remember the first time I tried a truly homemade version at a local bakery; the layers of buttery shortbread, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate just melted in my mouth. It felt so luxurious, like a little piece of edible gold! Since then, I’ve been obsessed with recreating that magic at home. This recipe is my go-to for a truly decadent millionaire’s shortbread experience. The combination of textures and the sweet, salty, and rich flavors is simply divine. It’s the best millionaire shortbread I’ve ever made, and I can’t wait for you to try it too. Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate

Get ready to fall in love with this incredible treat. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s an experience! Here’s why this Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate will become your new favorite:

• Effortless Elegance: Despite its gourmet look, this recipe is surprisingly straightforward, making it an easy millionaire shortbread for any skill level.
• Perfect Texture Trio: You get that satisfyingly crisp buttery shortbread, followed by a wonderfully chewy caramel, and topped with a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate ganache.
• Crowd-Pleaser Guaranteed: Whether you’re serving it at a party or just for family, everyone adores these rich chocolate caramel shortbread bars.
• Customizable Sweetness: The balance of sweet and slightly salty is just right, especially with that flaky sea salt finish.
• Make-Ahead Marvel: This homemade millionaire shortbread is perfect for preparing in advance, saving you time when guests arrive.
• Sensory Delight: The aroma alone while baking is heavenly, and the visual appeal of the distinct layers is stunning.
• Utterly Decadent: Each bite is a luxurious journey of flavor and texture that truly lives up to its “millionaire” name.

Classic Millionaire Shortbread Ingredients

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making truly amazing Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate. This classic millionaire shortbread recipe relies on simple pantry staples to create its signature triple-layer magic. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that perfect balance of buttery crust, chewy caramel, and rich chocolate. Don’t worry if you don’t have everything on hand; these are common baking items you might already own!

Shortbread Crust Ingredients

• 1 cup salted butter, softened – this gives our crust that essential buttery flavor and tender texture
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar – provides sweetness and helps create a crisp crust
• 1 large egg yolk – adds richness and binding power to the dough
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract – for that classic warm, sweet aroma and taste
• 2 1/4 cups cake flour – cake flour creates a more delicate and tender shortbread base
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt – balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors

Caramel Layer Ingredients

• 1 cup salted butter – the base for our luscious, chewy caramel
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk – this is key for achieving that smooth, thick caramel consistency
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed – adds depth of flavor and helps with caramelization
• 1/2 cup heavy cream – for a richer, creamier caramel
• 1/4 cup golden or light corn syrup – prevents crystallization and ensures a smooth, chewy texture
• 1 tsp vanilla – enhances the caramel flavor

Chocolate Ganache Topping Ingredients

• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate – good quality chocolate makes a difference in the final taste
• 1/2 cup heavy cream – creates a smooth, glossy ganache that sets beautifully
• Flaky sea salt, for finishing – a sprinkle of this elevates the whole bar, adding a delightful salty crunch

How to Make Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate

Now for the fun part – bringing this incredible dessert to life! Making Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate is a rewarding process, and with these clear steps, you’ll be enjoying your homemade millionaire shortbread before you know it. Get ready for that irresistible combination of buttery crust, chewy caramel, and smooth chocolate!

Preparing the Buttery Shortbread Crust

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave an overhang on the sides. This makes lifting the bars out so much easier later.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, cream together the softened 1 cup salted butter and 2/3 cup granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. I like to use an electric mixer for this part.
3. Step 3: Beat in 1 large egg yolk and 1 tsp pure vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Step 4: Gently fold in the 2 1/4 cups cake flour and 1/4 tsp kosher salt until a shaggy dough forms. Don’t overmix! Press this dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
5. Step 5: Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until the edges are beautifully golden brown. The aroma of baking shortbread is amazing! Let this crust cool completely in the pan before moving on.

Crafting the Chewy Caramel Layer

1. Step 6: While the crust cools, make the caramel. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine 1 cup salted butter, 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk, 1 cup light brown sugar, 1/2 cup heavy cream, and 1/4 cup golden corn syrup. Whisk everything together until smooth.
2. Step 7: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Stir frequently, scraping the bottom to prevent sticking. Cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the caramel reaches 225°F (107°C) on a candy thermometer. It should be thick and a lovely amber color. For more information on candy making temperatures, check out this guide to candy-making temperatures.
3. Step 8: Remove from heat and stir in 1 tsp vanilla. Carefully pour this luscious caramel over the completely cooled shortbread crust. Spread it evenly.

Creating the Rich Chocolate Ganache Topping

1. Step 9: To make the chocolate topping, gently microwave 1/2 cup heavy cream until it’s warm but not boiling. Pour the warm cream over 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for 1 minute to allow the chocolate to soften.
2. Step 10: Whisk the mixture gently until it’s smooth, glossy, and completely combined. This creates a beautiful chocolate ganache.

Assembling Your Triple Layer Shortbread Bars

1. Step 11: Pour the chocolate ganache over the set caramel layer. Spread it out evenly to cover the entire surface.
2. Step 12: Sprinkle the top generously with flaky sea salt, if using. This adds a wonderful contrast to the sweetness.
3. Step 13: Refrigerate the entire pan for at least 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the caramel and chocolate layers are firm and set. For best results when slicing, chill overnight.
4. Step 14: Once firm, use the parchment paper overhangs to lift the entire block out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and slice into your desired bar size. Enjoy your decadent Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate!

Pro Tips for the Best Homemade Millionaire Shortbread

Making these triple layer bars is so satisfying, and a few little tricks can elevate your results from good to absolutely spectacular. I’ve learned these tips through many batches, and they really make a difference in achieving that gourmet feel. These simple adjustments ensure your Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate bars are perfectly textured and incredibly delicious every single time.

• Always use a candy thermometer for the caramel; it’s the most reliable way to get that perfect chewy consistency.
• Let each layer set completely before adding the next to prevent the layers from merging. Patience is key!
• Chill the bars thoroughly before slicing; this makes cutting much cleaner and easier.
• Don’t skip the flaky sea salt on top – it truly enhances all the sweet flavors.

What’s the secret to perfect millionaire shortbread?

The secret lies in using a candy thermometer for the caramel. Cooking it to precisely 225°F (107°C) ensures that glorious chewy texture that makes this homemade millionaire shortbread so irresistible.

Can I make millionaire shortbread ahead of time?

Absolutely! This is one of the best make-ahead desserts. You can prepare the entire batch up to 3 days in advance and store it at room temperature. Just slice when ready to serve. For more information on storing baked goods, you can check out these storage tips.

How do I avoid common mistakes with millionaire bars recipe?

A common pitfall is not letting the shortbread crust cool completely before adding caramel, which can make it soggy. Also, be patient while cooking the caramel; rushing it can result in a runny or hard texture.

Best Ways to Serve Chocolate Caramel Shortbread

These decadent bars are a showstopper on their own, but I love finding new ways to enjoy them! Serving Chocolate Caramel Shortbread is all about complementing its rich flavors. They are perfect for afternoon tea, a delightful dessert after a hearty meal, or even a sweet treat with your morning coffee. I often pair them with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an extra luxurious experience, or a few fresh raspberries to cut through the sweetness. They also make for a beautiful addition to a dessert platter alongside other cookies and cakes. If you’re interested in learning more about the art of dessert plating, consider exploring resources on culinary presentation.

Nutrition Facts for Decadent Millionaire Shortbread

Indulging in this rich treat is a delicious experience, and knowing the nutritional breakdown can help you enjoy it mindfully. This Decadent Millionaire Shortbread offers a satisfyingly sweet profile. Remember, these figures are approximate and can vary based on the exact ingredients and portion sizes you use.

• Calories: 320
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 150mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate

Proper storage is key to keeping your homemade millionaire shortbread tasting its absolute best. Once your decadent bars have cooled completely and the layers are firm, it’s time to think about preserving that deliciousness. I always make sure mine are fully set before attempting to store them, which usually takes a couple of hours in the fridge.

• Storage: Store your Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate bars in an airtight container. You can keep them at room temperature for up to 3-4 days, and they’ll maintain their texture beautifully. For longer storage, wrap them well and freeze them for up to 3 months. They thaw perfectly overnight in the refrigerator. For more details on food safety and storage, you can refer to the terms of use which may contain relevant information.
• Reheating: While these bars are delicious cold or at room temperature, you can gently reheat them if you prefer a softer caramel. Microwave individual bars for just 5-10 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the chocolate layer oily. Enjoy your perfectly preserved, chewy caramel shortbread!

Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Millionaire Shortbread

You’ve got questions, and I’ve got answers about this fantastic treat! Making easy millionaire shortbread is so rewarding, and I want to make sure you have all the information you need to create perfect bars every time. Here are some common queries I get about this delightful dessert.

What is millionaire shortbread?

At its heart, millionaire shortbread is a glorious dessert bar featuring three distinct, delicious layers. It starts with a base of crumbly, buttery shortbread, followed by a thick, chewy layer of rich caramel, and is crowned with a smooth, decadent chocolate topping. It’s a classic British treat that’s universally loved.

Why is it called millionaire shortbread?

The name “millionaire shortbread” perfectly captures the luxurious, indulgent experience of eating it. It’s called this because the rich combination of buttery shortbread, sweet caramel, and smooth chocolate makes it feel incredibly decadent and extravagant – like something a millionaire would enjoy! It signifies the treat’s rich flavors and textures.

Variations of Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate You Can Try

While the classic combination is divine, don’t be afraid to play with this Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate recipe! Exploring different variations can lead to exciting new flavor profiles. For a gluten-free treat, simply swap the cake flour for your favorite gluten-free blend to create delicious gluten-free millionaire shortbread. You can also experiment with the chocolate topping – perhaps a dark chocolate for a richer flavor or even white chocolate for a sweeter contrast. For a nutty twist on the shortbread crust, try adding some finely chopped almonds or pecans. These simple swaps can transform your homemade millionaire shortbread into something uniquely yours! If you’re interested in learning more about gluten-free baking, you might find resources on data privacy in recipes helpful for understanding ingredient sourcing.

Millionaire Shortbread: 1 Divine Caramel Chocolate

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• Author: basmer1517
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate recipe features a buttery shortbread crust, a rich caramel filling, and a smooth chocolate ganache topping. It’s a decadent treat perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

• Shortbread crust: 1 cup salted butter, softened; 2/3 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg yolk; 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; 2 1/4 cups cake flour; 1/4 tsp kosher salt
• Caramel layer: 1 cup salted butter; 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk; 1 cup light brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup golden or light corn syrup; 1 tsp vanilla
• Chocolate layer: 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Flaky sea salt, for finishing

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang.
2. Cream softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in egg yolk and vanilla.
3. Gently fold in cake flour and kosher salt to form a shaggy dough. Press evenly into the prepared pan.
4. Bake for 20-22 minutes until edges are golden. Let cool completely.
5. In a saucepan, combine butter, sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, heavy cream, and corn syrup. Whisk until smooth.
6. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then simmer, stirring frequently, for 25-30 minutes until it reaches 225°F. Stir in vanilla and pour over the cooled crust.
7. Chill for 1.5 to 2 hours until set.
8. Microwave heavy cream until warm. Pour over semi-sweet chocolate, let sit for 1 minute, then whisk until smooth and glossy.
9. Pour ganache over the set caramel and refrigerate until firm, about 1-2 hours or overnight.
10. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Lift from pan and cut into squares.

Notes

• Allow each layer to set completely for the best texture.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
• For a cleaner cut, warm a sharp knife under hot water before slicing.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 square
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

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