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If you love the combination of crunchy, gooey, and chocolatey in one bite, then you’re in for a treat. Our Millionaires Shortbread Recipe is all that and more.
This decadent dessert combines a buttery shortbread crust, a rich caramel layer, and a silky layer of chocolate. Sounds divine, right? Well, trust me, this Millionaires shortbread recipe tastes even better than it sounds.
Three layers of lovely sweets come together to form something amazing. Eating them reminds me of fudge and cookies all at once. The indulgent layer of gooey caramel filling holds everything together in a really fun way.
And guess what? Just like all great things, it’s formed by simple ingredients. I’ve got some easy steps for you to follow in making your very own homemade millionaire shortbread.
Actually, these millionaire shortbread bars remind me a lot of a giant version of a twix bar. I could be over-simplifying, haha! It just struck me as I was writing this.
It is so extremely satisfying when you pour caramel over the baked shortbread dough. Then, on top of that, you get to pour melted chocolate over everything? Even creating these makes you feel like a million bucks!
I’ll admit, I’ve eaten way too many of these to be good for me. Ha! Just wait till you make your own. You’ll understand then.
So, let’s get started and unravel the secrets behind this classic recipe. This Millionaires Shortbread Recipe will be come a family favorite, if it isn’t already!
Some of our other favorite dessert bars recipes we have on our site include: Fresh Peach Bars Recipe with Crumble Topping, Coconut Cheesecake Bars (Best & Easy Recipe), and Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars (Easy Recipe).
WHY THIS RECIPE WORKS:
- Three-Layered Perfection: By combining a shortbread base, caramel filling, and chocolate topping, you get a dessert that delights your eyes as well as your tastebuds!
- No Fancy Ingredients: Everything you need is probably already in your kitchen. I love making such an indulgent dessert, all with simple things from my own pantry. It’s the small and simple steps that make people millionaires, after all!
- Easy to Make: Even if it’s your first time, this recipe is straightforward. No need for a candy thermometer or fancy equipment! Just follow my recipe and you’ll get to the finish line, no problem.
INGREDIENTS NEEDED (SCROLL TO THE BOTTOM OF THIS POST FOR THE FULL RECIPE CARD):
- Unsalted butter
- Granulated sugar
- All-purpose flour
- Fine sea salt
- Light brown sugar
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Light corn syrup
- Semi-sweet baking bars
- Flakey sea salt (optional for garnish)
HOW TO MAKE MILLIONAIRES SHORTBREAD RECIPE:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13 baking dish with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray, set aside.
- Place the butter and granulated sugar into the body of a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, and cream together for 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add the flour and sea salt, stir it in until combined with no dry patches.
- Press the dough into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes until lightly golden brown along the edges, the center of the crust appears dry, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cool completely.
- To make the filling place the butter, brown sugar, condensed milk, and corn syrup into a medium-sized sauce pot. Place over medium-low heat, stirring constantly.
- Bring to a simmer and turn the heat to low. Gently simmer for 5 minutes, stirring constantly so nothing burns on the bottom. You really have to be careful and make sure it doesn’t boil because a bubble may pop and burn you. If it looks like it is starting to simmer more rapidly, take off the heat for a few seconds while continuing to stir, then place it back on the heat.
- After 5 minutes, take it off the heat and continue to stir for about 4 minutes to cool it down slightly. Pour over the crust evenly. Place in the freezer for 2 hours.
- Add the chopped chocolate and butter into a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 15-second intervals stirring in between until smooth. Spread the chocolate on top of the filling. Place in the fridge for 2 hours to set.
- Use the parchment paper to help lift the bars out of the baking dish. Cut into squares and sprinkle with flakey sea salt if using, serve immediately.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS RECIPE:
WHY IS IT CALLED MILLIONAIRES SHORTBREAD?
This dessert got its name because of its rich ingredients. It’s like a treat fit for a millionaire!
Only you don’t have to be one to enjoy it.
CAN I ADD ANOTHER TOPPING BESIDES SALT?
Absolutely! While flaky sea salt adds a nice contrast to the sweetness, I know that not everyone likes the salty-sweet combo.
Feel free to get creative with other toppings if you prefer. Check out my additions section for some great ideas!
DO THESE NEED TO BE REFRIGERATED?
Yes, it’s best to store them in the refrigerator. It helps the layers set nicely and makes them easier to cut.
On top of that, I think the flavor and texture are just better when it’s cold!
TIPS FOR CUTTING CLEAN SLICES?
Use a sharp knife and wipe clean in between slices.
It’s also easier to cut when the bars are chilled.
ANY ADDITIONS?
Oh, you better believe these bars can takes some additions.
- Reese pieces
- Chopped peanut butter cups
- Chopped up rolos
- Toffee chips
- Mini M&M’s
- White or dark chocolate drizzle
- Crushed pretzels
- Dulce de leche swirls
- Sprinkled cocoa powder
- Chopped nuts (like almonds or hazelnuts)
ANY SUBSTITUTIONS?
Sure thing! I’ve got a few things that will help you here.
- Swap sweetened condensed milk with dulce de leche.
- Use milk chocolate or white chocolate instead of semi-sweet bars.
- Replace light corn syrup with golden syrup.
- Use gluten-free flour if you have a gluten allergy.
- Vegan butter can be a great substitute for unsalted butter if you’re going dairy-free.
HOW TO STORE:
Refrigerator: These bars are best served slightly chilled. They will keep for up to a week in the fridge.
If you like, you can cover them with tin foil. It’s not necessary, though. The chocolate holds in all the moisture!
Freezer: If you want to save them for later, these treats can be frozen for up to 3 months.
DANA’S TIPS AND TRICKS:
- Layering is Key: Make sure to cool each layer properly before adding the next.
- Keep It Chilled: As tempting as it might be, wait for the bars to set in the fridge before cutting into them.
- Go Nuts: Add some chopped nuts to the caramel layer for an added crunch.
- Chopping Chocolate: Ensure your chocolate is finely chopped for a smooth and even layer.
- Get Creative with Toppings: While the traditional millionaire bars keep it simple, there’s no harm in adding your personal touch.
- Be Patient: Even though it’s hard to wait, giving your shortbread the proper time to chill ensures the best texture and taste.
Our Millionaires Shortbread recipe is the perfect blend of crunch, caramel sweetness, and chocolatey goodness. This dessert has a classic charm that never gets old.
Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy evening at home or sharing it with friends during a party, it’s sure to be a hit. Give it a try, and let this millionaire treat make you feel like a dessert billionaire!
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If you’ve tried this MILLIONAIRES SHORTBREAD RECIPE, let me know how it turned out in the comments! You can follow me over on PINTEREST, INSTAGRAM OR FACEBOOK to find some more of our mouthwatering recipes!
Millionaires Shortbread Recipe (Easy Caramel Bars)
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 & 1/3 cups unsalted butter softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 & 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- pinch salt
For the filling:
- 1 cup unsalted butter cut into tablespoons
- 1 cup light brown sugar packed
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
For the topping:
- 12 ounces semi-sweet baking bars finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- flakey sea salt for garnish optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13 baking dish with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray, set aside.
- Place the butter and granulated sugar into the body of a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, and cream together for 3 minutes until light and fluffy.1 & 1/3 cups unsalted butter, 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- Add the flour and salt, stir it in until combined with no dry patches.2 & 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, pinch salt
- Press the dough into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes until lightly golden brown along the edges, the center of the crust appears dry, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cool completely.
- To make the filling place the butter, brown sugar, condensed milk, and corn syrup into a medium-sized sauce pot. Place over medium-low heat, stirring constantly.1 cup unsalted butter, 1 cup light brown sugar, 1 cup sweetened condensed milk, 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- Bring to a simmer and turn the heat to low. Gently simmer for 5 minutes, stirring constantly so nothing burns on the bottom. You really have to be careful and make sure it doesn’t boil because a bubble may pop and burn you. If it looks like it is starting to simmer more rapidly, take off the heat for a few seconds while continuing to stir, then place it back on the heat.
- After 5 minutes, take it off the heat and continue to stir for about 4 minutes to cool it down slightly. Pour over the crust evenly. Place in the freezer for 2 hours.
- Add the chopped chocolate and butter into a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 15-second intervals stirring in between until smooth. Spread the chocolate on top of the filling. Place in the fridge for 2 hours to set.12 ounces semi-sweet baking bars, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Use the parchment paper to help lift the bars out of the baking dish. Cut into squares and sprinkle with flakey sea salt if using, serve immediately.flakey sea salt for garnish
Notes
- Layering is Key: Make sure to cool each layer properly before adding the next.
- Keep It Chilled: As tempting as it might be, wait for the bars to set in the fridge before cutting into them.
- Go Nuts: Add some chopped nuts to the caramel layer for an added crunch.
- Chopping Chocolate: Ensure your chocolate is finely chopped for a smooth and even layer.
- Get Creative with Toppings: While the traditional millionaire bars keep it simple, there’s no harm in adding your personal touch.
- Be Patient: Even though it’s hard to wait, giving your shortbread the proper time to chill ensures the best texture and taste.
Nutrition
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