Millionaire Shortbread Recipe: A Decadent Treat for Every Occasion

Millionaire Shortbread is a luxurious dessert featuring three irresistible layers: buttery shortbread, rich caramel, and a smooth chocolate topping. This classic treat is perfect for holidays, parties, or anytime you want to indulge in something truly special. With its balanced flavors and textures, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

What Is Millionaire Shortbread?

Millionaire Shortbread, also known as caramel slice in some regions, is a layered dessert bar that originated in Scotland. The combination of crumbly shortbread, gooey caramel, and creamy chocolate makes it a decadent yet simple treat. It’s like a homemade candy bar, but better!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Requires only pantry staples like butter, sugar, and flour.
• Indulgent Flavors: Combines buttery shortbread, sweet caramel, and rich chocolate.
• Versatile: Perfect for special occasions or as an everyday treat.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance and stored for days.

Ingredients

Shortbread Layer

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour

Caramel Layer

• 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
• ½ cup (120ml) sweetened condensed milk
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp golden syrup (or light corn syrup)

Chocolate Layer

• 8 oz (225g) semi-sweet or milk chocolate, melted

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Shortbread

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until smooth and fluffy.
3. Gradually add the flour and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
4. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan, ensuring a smooth layer.
5. Bake for 20 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow the shortbread to cool completely in the pan.

Making the Caramel

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, butter, and golden syrup.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and turns a golden brown color. This should take about 8–10 minutes.
3. Pour the caramel over the cooled shortbread layer and spread it evenly with a spatula.
4. Chill the caramel layer in the fridge until set.

Adding the Chocolate Layer

1. Melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in the microwave, stirring at intervals to prevent burning.
2. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer, spreading it evenly.
3. Let the chocolate cool and harden at room temperature or in the fridge.

Slicing and Serving

1. Once the chocolate is firm, slice the shortbread into squares or bars using a sharp knife. Wipe the blade clean between cuts for neat edges.
2. Serve and enjoy the perfect balance of buttery, sweet, and chocolaty goodness.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a dessert at dinner parties or family gatherings.
• Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for an indulgent afternoon treat.
• Decorate with a sprinkle of sea salt for a sophisticated twist.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• In the Fridge: Keep in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

Freezing Instructions

• Wrap individual slices in parchment paper and store in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Recipe Variations

• Dark Chocolate Version: Use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate for a richer flavor.
• Nutty Delight: Add a layer of crushed nuts to the caramel for added crunch.
• Salted Caramel: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on the caramel layer before adding the chocolate.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

FAQs

Q: Can I use canned caramel instead of making it from scratch?
A: Yes, but homemade caramel has a richer flavor and better texture.

Q: Why is my caramel too runny?
A: Ensure you cook the caramel long enough for it to thicken. It should coat the back of a spoon when ready.

Q: Can I use white chocolate for the topping?
A: Absolutely! White chocolate provides a sweeter alternative to milk or dark chocolate.

Millionaire Shortbread is an indulgent, show-stopping dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make. With its buttery shortbread base, luscious caramel center, and chocolate topping, it’s a treat everyone will love. Try this recipe today and share your experience—we’d love to hear how it turns out!

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