Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate

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Buttery shortbread, golden caramel, and a glossy layer of rich chocolate — Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate bars are the kind of indulgent treat that make every bite feel like pure luxury. Each layer brings its own charm: the base is melt-in-your-mouth tender, the caramel is gooey and luscious, and the chocolate topping adds that perfect, satisfying snap. It’s a trifecta of textures and flavors that’s hard to resist.

Ideal for holidays, special occasions, or just treating yourself to something truly decadent, these bars aren’t just delicious — they’re visually stunning. That shiny chocolate glaze sprinkled with flaky sea salt elevates them into gourmet territory. You’ll find yourself savoring every layer and reaching for seconds (and thirds) before you know it.

Why You’ll Love This Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate

• Each bar offers a rich blend of textures: crumbly, silky, and crisp.
• Sweet caramel and dark chocolate balance beautifully without being overpowering.
• It’s a crowd-pleaser that looks impressive but is surprisingly easy to make at home.
• Perfect for gift boxes, parties, or a luxurious afternoon pick-me-up.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To achieve the perfect Millionaire Shortbread, it’s important to have the right tools on hand:

• 8×8-inch baking pan: essential for evenly layered bars.
• Parchment paper: helps lift the bars out cleanly after chilling.
• Heavy-bottomed saucepan: key for making smooth, even caramel without scorching.
• Mixing bowls: for blending shortbread and melting chocolate.
• Offset spatula or spoon: ideal for spreading each layer evenly.
• Candy thermometer (optional): helps ensure the caramel reaches the right temperature (around 225°F for soft chew).

Having the proper equipment not only streamlines the process but ensures precision, especially when working with temperature-sensitive caramel and chocolate.

Preparation Tips

Start by ensuring your butter is at room temperature for the shortbread base, which will help it cream smoothly with the sugar. When making the caramel, keep the heat moderate and stir constantly to prevent burning. A low, slow melt for the chocolate is crucial — either in a double boiler or microwave in short intervals. Lastly, let each layer cool before adding the next. This avoids mixing or cracking when slicing into those beautifully defined layers later. Patience and precision are the keys to perfect Millionaire Shortbread bars.

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Ingredients for this Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate

For the Shortbread Base:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Caramel Layer:

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional, for smoother texture)
• Flaky sea salt, for garnish (optional but recommended)

Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Base

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal later.

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the flour and salt, mixing until a crumbly dough forms. Press this dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to smooth the surface.

Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Layer

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, brown sugar, condensed milk, and corn syrup. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula to avoid burning. Once the mixture starts bubbling, reduce the heat slightly and continue stirring until it thickens to a golden caramel consistency (about 8–10 minutes). If using a candy thermometer, aim for 225°F.

Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Pour the hot caramel over the cooled shortbread base, spreading it evenly. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for 30–40 minutes until set.

Step 3: Add the Chocolate Topping

Melt the chocolate chips with the butter (if using) in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method), or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.

Once smooth and glossy, pour the melted chocolate over the firm caramel layer. Use an offset spatula or back of a spoon to spread it evenly.

Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before the chocolate sets if desired.

Refrigerate the entire pan again for about 1 hour or until the chocolate is fully firm.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

Use the parchment overhang to lift the slab from the pan. Place on a cutting board. For clean slices, dip a sharp knife in hot water and wipe between cuts.

Cut into 16 squares or smaller bite-sized pieces. Serve chilled or at room temperature for a slightly softer bite.

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Notes

Millionaire Shortbread is best enjoyed when each layer has been given time to set properly. This ensures clean slices and a perfect bite every time. The caramel can be finicky, so resist the urge to rush it; a low and steady heat is your best ally. The sea salt on top isn’t just for looks — it balances the sweetness and intensifies the chocolate’s richness. Don’t skip it if you want that true gourmet finish.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overbaking the shortbread: It should be lightly golden, not deeply browned. Overbaking can lead to a dry, crumbly base.
• Rushing the caramel: High heat can burn the sugar quickly. Stir constantly and patiently.
• Skipping layer cooling time: Adding caramel or chocolate too soon can cause melting or mixing of layers.
• Cutting while cold or without heating the knife: This can cause the chocolate to crack unevenly. Warm the knife and wipe between slices.
• Using low-quality chocolate: Since the chocolate layer is prominent, good quality makes a big difference.

Storage Instructions

Store Millionaire Shortbread bars in an airtight container. They’ll keep at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for up to 10 days. If you prefer a softer caramel and chocolate layer, let them sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving. For longer storage, these bars also freeze well. Wrap individually in parchment and store in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.

Estimated Nutrition

(Per square, based on 16 servings):

• Calories: 310
• Total Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 80mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 34g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 24g
• Protein: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought caramel?

Yes, but the texture may be thinner and the flavor less rich. Homemade caramel is best for structure and taste.

What chocolate is best for the topping?

Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips are recommended. High-quality bars like Ghirardelli or Lindt also melt beautifully.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the shortbread base. Everything else is naturally gluten-free.

Why did my caramel separate or become grainy?

This usually happens when the heat is too high or the sugar isn’t fully dissolved before boiling. Stir slowly and consistently.

How do I keep the chocolate from cracking when slicing?

Warm a sharp knife under hot water, dry it, and slice gently. This helps create smooth, clean edges.

Do I have to use corn syrup in the caramel?

Corn syrup helps prevent crystallization. You can replace it with golden syrup, but avoid skipping it entirely.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a 9×13-inch pan and double all ingredients. Baking and cooking times may need slight adjustments.

What’s the best way to serve these for a party?

Cut into bite-sized squares and place in mini cupcake liners for easy serving and a tidy presentation.

Conclusion

Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate is the kind of dessert that turns a simple gathering into something memorable. With its elegant layers and unbeatable taste, it strikes the perfect balance between classic comfort and refined indulgence. Take your time through each step, use quality ingredients, and you’ll be rewarded with a show-stopping treat that’s as luxurious as its name suggests.

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