Name: Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup salted butter, softened to room temperature; 2/3 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg yolk, room temperature; 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; 2 1/4 cups cake flour, spooned and leveled; 1/4 tsp kosher salt; 1 cup salted butter; 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk; 1 cup light brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup golden or light corn syrup; 1 tsp vanilla; 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Flaky sea salt, for finishing

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Introduction to Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate

Picture this: a busy afternoon where you crave something sweet, yet elegant. Enter the Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate. This delightful dessert combines buttery shortbread, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate for a taste explosion! It’s perfect for busy moms like me who want to whip up a dish to impress, without spending all day in the kitchen. Just imagine serving these heavenly squares at a family gathering or even indulging after a long day. This recipe is a quick solution for satisfying that sweet tooth while bringing a little joy to your day.

Why You’ll Love This Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate

To start with, it is very unfussy to prepare! Even on a very busy day when you have a zillion things to do, this dessert comes together very quickly. Layers just melt in the mouth to create an exquisite flavor experience that everyone will be raving about. Plus, this is a show stopper; people will truly be impressed. And finally, you get to enjoy that smug feeling of knowing you made something so deviously scrumptious at home.

Ingredients in Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating the magical Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate. Here’s what you’ll need:

Salted butter: This adds richness to the shortbread and caramel layers.
Granulated sugar: Balances the flavors and helps the shortbread achieve that delicious sweet crust.
Egg yolk: This gives the shortbread a tender texture and adds moisture.
Vanilla extract: Always a must for a warm, comforting flavor that complements the dessert brilliantly.
Cake flour: Preferred for its fine texture, it make the shortbread light and crumbly.
Kosher salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and rounds out the flavors.
Sweetened condensed milk: This is the secret ingredient that makes the caramel smooth and luscious.
Light brown sugar: For caramelizing, it provides a subtle molasses flavor that deepens the sweetness.
Heavy cream: Adds richness to both the caramel and chocolate ganache layers.
Corn syrup: Helps prevent the caramel from crystallizing, ensuring a silky texture.
Semi-sweet chocolate: Perfect for the ganache, providing that indulgent chocolatey finish.
Flaky sea salt: A finishing touch that enhances the overall flavors for that gourmet touch.

For anyone who likes to experiment, you might try substituting dark chocolate for a more intense flavor or using unsalted butter if you prefer total control over the salt content. Don’t forget, detailed measurements are at the bottom of the article, ready for printing.

Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate – Buttery, Gooey & Luxuriously Sweet!

How to Make Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate

Making Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate is a fun and rewarding experience. Let’s break it down step by step. You’ll find that the process is straightforward and totally worth it!

Prepare the Shortbread Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This sets the stage for the perfect bake.

Next, cream together the softened salted butter and granulated sugar in a stand mixer or using a hand mixer. This should take about three minutes. You want it light and fluffy!

After that, add in the egg yolk and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Now, gently incorporate the cake flour and kosher salt into the dough. You’re looking for a shaggy texture, which means don’t overmix!

Press this crumbly dough evenly into a lined 9×13 inch baking pan. Don’t be shy about using your hands for this! Bake it for 20 to 22 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Once it’s done, let it cool completely.

Make the Caramel Layer

Now comes the gooey goodness! In a medium saucepot, combine the salted butter, sweetened condensed milk, packed brown sugar, heavy cream, and corn syrup.

Heat this mixture over medium heat until it comes to a boil. Then reduce the heat to medium-low and whisk it frequently. This step is crucial since it helps prevent burning.

Continue stirring until the caramel reaches 225°F on a candy thermometer. This process should take about 25 to 30 minutes, so don’t rush it!

Once it’s ready, whisk in the vanilla extract and immediately pour this luscious caramel over your cooled shortbread crust. Now, let it chill for about 1.5 to 2 hours until set.

Create the Chocolate Ganache

Once the caramel has set, it’s time to make the chocolate ganache. Start by microwaving the heavy cream for about 45 seconds to a minute until it’s warm, not boiling.

Pour this warm cream over the semi-sweet chocolate and allow it to sit for a minute. Then whisk until smooth and glossy. You’ll just love this step; it’s like magic!

Assemble and Chill

Now, pour that delicious ganache over the set caramel layer. Spread it gently to cover the entire surface.

To achieve the perfect finish, sprinkle some flaky sea salt over the top. This gives your Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate that gourmet touch!

Finally, refrigerate the dessert until firm, about 1 to 2 hours, or if you’re patient, overnight is even better. This allows all those layers to meld beautifully.

Tips for Success

Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming.
Don’t rush the caramel-making process; patience makes for a smooth texture.
If you prefer a more intense chocolate flavor, go for dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet.
Allow each layer to set properly before adding the next for neat slices.
Use an offset spatula for even ganache spreading.

Equipment Needed

9×13 inch baking pan: If you don’t have one, a similar-sized dish will work.
Parchment paper: This helps with easy removal; aluminum foil is a good alternative.
Stand mixer or hand mixer: Both can cream the ingredients effectively.
Candy thermometer: If you don’t have one, the “soft ball” test works too.
Mixing bowls: Use any bowls you have on hand for mixing and combining.

Variations

Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, into the caramel layer for a delightful crunch.
Minty Fresh: Incorporate a few drops of peppermint extract into the ganache for a refreshing mint flavor that pairs wonderfully with the chocolate.
Gluten-Free: Substitute the cake flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend for a delicious option that caters to gluten-sensitive family members.
Coconut Delight: Mix shredded coconut into the shortbread crust or sprinkle it on top of the ganache for an island-inspired treat.
Spiced Flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to the chocolate ganache for a bold flavor kick.

Serving Suggestions

Coffee: Pair these decadent bars with a rich cup of coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
Fresh Berries: Serve alongside a handful of fresh raspberries or strawberries for a vibrant contrast.
Presentation: Drizzle extra chocolate on the plate for an elegant touch, adding a gourmet feel.
Ice Cream: Consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for indulgence!

FAQs about Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate

Can I make Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate in advance?

Absolutely! This dessert is perfect for making ahead of time. It can be refrigerated for several days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

What can I use if I don’t have a candy thermometer?

If you don’t have a candy thermometer, don’t worry! You can test the caramel by dropping a small amount into a glass of cold water. If it forms a soft ball, it’s ready!

Can I freeze these bars for later?

Yes! The Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate bars freeze beautifully. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to three months.

How do I store leftover Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate?

Keep any leftovers in a cool, dry place. An airtight container helps maintain freshness. They will last for a week, but they tend to disappear faster than that!

What’s the best way to cut these bars?

For neat slices, use a sharp knife warmed under hot water. Wipe it clean between cuts to keep the edges smooth. This way, your Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate will look just as good as it tastes!

Final Thoughts

Eating Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate feels like having that perfect slice of happiness. Every layer of the product narrates something or other tokens- right from the fragrant butter shortbread to the rich, thick caramel and smooth chocolate ganache. It’s a nice way to gather family or impress friends, all while bringing a comforting touch to your busy day. If you watch their smiles grow with each bite, you know that this sweet creation is more than just a dessert; it’s a memory in the making. So, go ahead and have happiness in baking and enjoy the flavor of the luxury treat!