This Millionaire Shortbread Bars Recipe is the ultimate treat for any occasion. With its rich layers of buttery shortbread, luscious caramel, and smooth chocolate, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Perfect for parties, holidays, or just a sweet indulgence at home, these bars deliver an unforgettable flavor experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Layers – This recipe features a delightful combination of shortbread, caramel, and chocolate that makes each bite a heavenly experience.
- Easy to Follow – The straightforward steps ensure that even novice bakers can whip up this dessert with confidence.
- Perfect for Sharing – With 28 servings, these bars are great for gatherings or as gifts to loved ones.
- Versatile Flavor – Customize your Millionaire Shortbread Bars by adding toppings like nuts or different types of chocolate to suit your taste.
- Make Ahead Option – These bars store well in the fridge and can be made in advance for any event.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the preparation smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking pan (9×13 inches)
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Saucepan
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking pan – A sturdy pan ensures even cooking and helps achieve the perfect texture in your Millionaire Shortbread Bars.
- Electric mixer – Using an electric mixer saves time and energy when creaming your butter and sugar together.
Ingredients
For the Shortbread Base
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 1/4 cup (2 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter softened
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg yolk, slightly beaten
For the Caramel Layer
- 28 ounces sweetened condensed milk (two 14-ounce cans)
- 6 ounces dark chocolate (60% cacao), coarsely chopped
- 1 teaspoon light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
For Garnish
- Sea salt, for finishing
How to Make Millionaire Shortbread Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper. This will help you easily remove the bars once they are set.
Step 2: Make the Shortbread Base
- In a mixing bowl, cream together unsalted butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add in flour, salt, and egg yolk. Mix until combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Step 3: Prepare the Caramel Layer
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sweetened condensed milk, butter, and light corn syrup. Stir continuously until melted and smooth.
- Bring to a gentle boil while stirring constantly for about 5 minutes until thickened slightly.
- Pour the caramel over the baked shortbread base evenly.
Step 4: Add Chocolate Topping
- Melt the coarsely chopped dark chocolate. You can do this using a microwave in short bursts or over a double boiler.
- Once melted, pour it over the caramel layer and spread it out evenly using a spatula.
Step 5: Finish Off
Sprinkle sea salt on top of the chocolate layer for that perfect salty-sweet balance.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Let your Millionaire Shortbread Bars cool completely before slicing them into squares or rectangles. Enjoy!
How to Serve Millionaire Shortbread Bars Recipe
These decadent Millionaire Shortbread Bars are perfect for a variety of occasions. Their rich layers of shortbread, caramel, and chocolate make them an indulgent treat that can be served in several delightful ways.
For Afternoon Tea
- Pair these bars with a cup of Earl Grey or chamomile tea for a relaxing afternoon break.
As a Dessert Platter
- Arrange cut bars on a dessert platter alongside fresh fruits and whipped cream for a colorful presentation.
During Celebrations
- Serve at parties or gatherings as a sweet finger food; they are easy to grab and enjoy on the go.
With Ice Cream
- Top warm bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible dessert experience.
As Party Favors
- Wrap individual bars in decorative packaging to give as sweet party favors to your guests.
How to Perfect Millionaire Shortbread Bars Recipe
Perfecting this Millionaire Shortbread Bars recipe can elevate your baking game. Here are some tips to ensure your bars come out just right.
- Use cold butter: Starting with cold butter helps create a crumbly shortbread texture that holds its shape well.
- Chill the layers: Chill the caramel layer before adding chocolate. This allows for easier cutting and cleaner edges.
- Watch the baking time: Keep an eye on the shortbread while baking; it should be golden brown but not overdone.
- Let it set: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting. This ensures clean cuts and better presentation.
Best Side Dishes for Millionaire Shortbread Bars Recipe
While Millionaire Shortbread Bars are delightful on their own, they can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options:
- Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds freshness and acidity that balances the sweetness of the bars.
- Coffee or Espresso: A strong cup of coffee pairs beautifully with these rich treats, enhancing their flavor profile.
- Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream provides a creamy texture that contrasts nicely with the crunchy layers.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over each bar adds an extra layer of decadence that’s hard to resist.
- Caramel Sauce: Serve alongside homemade caramel sauce for those who want even more sweetness in each bite.
- Ice Cream Floats: Create ice cream floats using soda and vanilla ice cream for a fun and nostalgic treat when enjoying these bars.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Millionaire Shortbread Bars can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common pitfalls ensures your bars turn out perfectly.
- Skipping the chilling time: If you don’t chill the layers between steps, the chocolate and caramel may not set properly, leading to a messy result. Always allow each layer to cool completely before adding the next.
- Using cold butter: Cold butter doesn’t mix well into the dough for the shortbread base. Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for a smooth and creamy texture.
- Overbaking the shortbread: If you bake the base too long, it can become dry and crumbly instead of tender. Keep an eye on it and pull it from the oven when it’s just lightly golden.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is precise, and improper measurements can affect the final outcome of your Millionaire Shortbread Bars. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy.
- Neglecting to use quality chocolate: The chocolate topping makes a significant impact on flavor. Opt for high-quality dark chocolate to enhance your bars’ taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- They will stay fresh for up to two weeks when properly stored.
Freezing Millionaire Shortbread Bars Recipe
- Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- These bars can be frozen for up to three months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating Millionaire Shortbread Bars Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes. This will soften the chocolate slightly without melting it completely.
- Microwave: Heat on low power in 15-second intervals until just warmed through. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can ruin the texture.
- Stovetop: Place a skillet over low heat and warm each bar for about 1-2 minutes on each side. This method helps maintain the integrity of the layers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Millionaire Shortbread Bars Recipe?
Millionaire Shortbread Bars are a delicious dessert made with three layers: a buttery shortbread base, rich caramel filling, and decadent chocolate topping.
Can I customize my Millionaire Shortbread Bars Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, or incorporate flavored extracts into the caramel layer for a unique twist.
How do I prevent my caramel from burning?
To avoid burning caramel while making your Millionaire Shortbread Bars Recipe, cook it over medium heat and stir continuously until it reaches a golden brown color.
How long do Millionaire Shortbread Bars last?
When stored correctly in an airtight container in the fridge, these bars can last up to two weeks. If frozen, they can last up to three months while still retaining their flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Millionaire Shortbread Bars recipe is not only indulgent but also versatile enough for various occasions. The combination of buttery shortbread, luscious caramel, and rich chocolate creates an irresistible treat that everyone will love. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or flavors! Try making this delightful dessert today—your taste buds will thank you!
Millionaire Shortbread Bars
Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with this Millionaire Shortbread Bars recipe. Each delightful bar features a buttery shortbread base topped with rich caramel and decadent dark chocolate, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave everyone wanting more. Perfect for any occasion—be it parties, holidays, or simply a sweet treat at home—these bars are easy to make and even easier to share. With 28 servings, they’re ideal for gatherings or as thoughtful gifts. Customize your bars with toppings like nuts or flavored extracts to create your own unique twist on this classic treat. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these irresistible Millionaire Shortbread Bars!
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 28 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 1/4 cups unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg yolk (slightly beaten)
- 28 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- 6 ounces dark chocolate (coarsely chopped)
- 1 teaspoon light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for caramel)
- Sea salt (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch pan or line with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add flour, salt, and egg yolk; mix until combined.
- Press the mixture into the prepared pan evenly and bake for about 20 minutes until lightly golden.
- In a saucepan, combine sweetened condensed milk, butter, and light corn syrup over medium heat. Stir continuously until melted and smooth; bring to a gentle boil for about 5 minutes until thickened.
- Pour the caramel over the baked shortbread layer evenly.
- Melt dark chocolate using a microwave or double boiler, then pour it over the caramel layer and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle sea salt on top for added flavor.
- Allow to cool completely before slicing into squares.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Baked Goods
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (63g)
- Calories: 266
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 99mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: For added texture, consider incorporating chopped nuts into the caramel layer. Chill each layer before adding the next for cleaner cuts. Use high-quality chocolate for optimal flavor.
