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Millionaire Shortbread

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  • Author: KimEasy
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours, 15 minutes
  • Yield: 24 servings 1x
  • Category: dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: British
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Millionaire’s Shortbread is a rich, indulgent treat featuring three layers: a buttery shortbread base, a smooth caramel center, and a glossy chocolate topping. This classic dessert, also known as caramel shortbread or caramel slice, originated in Scotland and has become popular worldwide.


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Shortbread Base:

  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Caramel Layer:

  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter
  • 1 cup (200g) packed brown sugar
  • 4 tablespoons (80g) golden syrup or light corn syrup
  • 1 can (14 oz or 397g) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Chocolate Topping:

  • 8 ounces (225g) dark or milk chocolate, chopped
  • 2 teaspoons vegetable oil (optional, for a shinier finish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Shortbread Base:
    • Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
    • In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
    • Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until a crumbly dough forms.
    • Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan to form a smooth layer.
    • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.
  2. Prepare the Caramel Layer:
    • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, brown sugar, golden syrup (or light corn syrup), sweetened condensed milk, and salt.
    • Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and continue to cook, stirring frequently, for about 5-7 minutes, until the caramel thickens and turns a deep golden color.
    • Pour the hot caramel over the cooled shortbread base, spreading it evenly. Allow it to set at room temperature for about 1 hour, or until firm.
  3. Prepare the Chocolate Topping:
    • In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped chocolate and vegetable oil (if using). Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
    • Pour the melted chocolate over the set caramel layer, spreading it evenly to cover the caramel completely.
    • Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature or refrigerate for about 30 minutes, until firm.
  4. Slice and Serve:
    • Once the chocolate has set, use the parchment overhang to lift the entire dessert out of the pan.
    • With a sharp knife, cut into squares or rectangles of your desired size. For cleaner cuts, warm the knife blade under hot water and dry it before slicing.
    • Store the Millionaire’s Shortbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Notes

  • For a salted caramel variation, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the caramel layer before adding the chocolate topping.
  • Ensure each layer is fully set before adding the next to maintain distinct layers.
  • Using high-quality chocolate will enhance the overall flavor of the dessert.