Name: Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate will Delight You!
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Shortbread crust; 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; Caramel layer; 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; Chocolate layer; 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Flaky sea salt, for finishing

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Introduction to Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate

Hey, I know you must be having such a busy life rushing towards sweet indulgence. Well, not quite! It’s the Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate – a rich biscuit base, smooth caramel filling, and creamy chocolate topping. So, here’s not just a dessert but, really, a presenctop at the end of long working day. This recipe is for all busy moms and working women wanting to treat their loved ones, minus the trouble. Believe me, you won’t be able to stop at just one bite!

Why You’ll Love This Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate

This Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate is a game-changer, combining rich flavors and simple techniques. You can whip it up quickly, and it’s guaranteed to please everyone—from kids to picky eaters. Plus, the layers give it a wow factor for gatherings. You might even find yourself making it again and again, just to see those happy smiles when they take that first bite!

Ingredients for Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate

Gather ‘round, my fellow culinary adventurers! The ingredients for this Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate are quite straightforward and easy to find. Here’s a handy list to get your kitchen ready:

Shortbread Crust: You’ll need salted butter, granulated sugar, an egg yolk, and pure vanilla extract to create a rich flavor. Cake flour gives that perfect crumbly texture, while a pinch of kosher salt balances the sweetness.
Caramel Layer: For that melt-in-your-mouth caramel, grab more salted butter, sweetened condensed milk for creaminess, and light brown sugar for depth. Don’t forget the heavy cream and light corn syrup—they help achieve that luscious, gooey consistency. A splash of vanilla rounds out the flavor.
Chocolate Layer: Semi-sweet chocolate is a must for that decadent top layer, paired with heavy cream to achieve a silky ganache. And if you’re feeling extra fancy, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt at the end makes everything even better!

And remember, the specific amounts of these delightful ingredients are available towards the end of this article, ready for printing to ensure you don’t miss a thing. Now, let’s get cooking!

How to Make Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate

Now, let’s dive into the delicious process of creating this Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate! I promise it’s easier than it looks. Just follow these simple steps, and soon your kitchen will be filled with the sweet aroma of success!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F. This step ensures even baking. Line a 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang. This extra paper helps lift the bars out smoothly later, making your life even easier. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!

Step 2: Make the Shortbread Crust

Next, let’s make that heavenly shortbread crust! In your stand mixer, or armed with a trusty hand mixer, cream together 1 cup of softened salted butter and 2/3 cup of granulated sugar for about 3 minutes. The mixture should be light and fluffy, which is key for that perfect crust texture. Add in 1 large egg yolk and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, mixing just until combined. Now, gently fold in 2 1/4 cups of cake flour and 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt—you’ll want a shaggy, crumbly dough. No over-mixing here, folks! Press this dough evenly into your prepared pan, and that’s your crust done!

Step 3: Bake the Shortbread Crust

Time to bake! Pop the pan into your preheated oven for 20-22 minutes or until the edges turn a lovely golden hue. When it’s done baking, allow the shortbread crust to cool completely in the pan. Cooling is crucial here—it makes a solid base for your caramel layer that won’t slide around.

Step 4: Prepare the Caramel Layer

For the caramel, combine 1 cup of salted butter, a can of sweetened condensed milk, 1 cup of packed light brown sugar, 1/2 cup of heavy cream, and 1/4 cup of golden corn syrup in a medium-sized saucepan. Whisk them together until smooth. Over medium heat, bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce it to a medium-low simmer. Stir often for about 25-30 minutes until it reaches 225°F. This step requires patience, as you don’t want to burn the caramel. Once thickened, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla, then pour it over the cooled shortbread crust. Allow it to chill for 1.5 to 2 hours—I know, the waiting is tough, but it’s worth it!

Step 5: Chill the Caramel Layer

After pouring the caramel over the crust, chilling is essential. It helps the caramel set perfectly so it won’t ooze out when cut. Check if it’s set by gently pressing the center. If it’s firm and doesn’t jiggle, you’re golden!

Step 6: Create the Chocolate Ganache

Now, let’s whip up that irresistible chocolate ganache! Heat 1/2 cup of heavy cream in the microwave for about 45 seconds to 1 minute, just until it’s warm—not boiling. Pour this warm cream over 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate. Let it sit for a minute; this helps the chocolate melt perfectly. Then, whisk until it’s smooth and glossy. Timing is key here; a quick but gentle touch is all you need for that silky texture!

Step 7: Assemble and Chill Again

Once your ganache is ready, it’s time to layer! Pour the chocolate ganache over your set caramel layer and spread it evenly. Now cover again and refrigerate until firm, which should take about 1-2 hours or even overnight for best results. Presentation matters; consider drizzling extra ganache on top before serving to impress your guests!

Step 8: Final Touches

When everything is set, it’s time for the grand reveal! Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top for that beautiful finishing touch. Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang, and cut them into squares with a sharp knife. For tips, warm the knife slightly under hot water to get cleaner cuts. Voila, your Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate is ready to shine!

Tips for Success

Always use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
For a cleaner cut, warm your knife under hot water before slicing.
Let the layers set completely for the best texture.
If you’re short on time, prepare the layers ahead of time and assemble later.
Feel free to experiment with flavored chocolate for a unique twist!

Equipment Needed

9×13 inch baking pan: A glass or metal pan works well, but make sure to line it with parchment.
Stand mixer or hand mixer: Either will do; just ensure your butter is softened!
Medium-sized saucepan: A heavy-bottomed pan prevents burning when cooking caramel.
Whisk: For mixing the caramel and ganache smoothly.
Sharp knife: For cutting clean squares after chilling.

Variations for Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate

Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the shortbread crust for added texture and flavor.
Irish Cream Ganache: Swap the heavy cream in the ganache for Irish cream liqueur for an adult twist!
Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend instead of regular cake flour to make a gluten-free version.
Dark Chocolate Delight: Replace semi-sweet chocolate with dark chocolate for a rich, decadent flavor.
Veggie Option: Use plant-based butter and vegan chocolate for a dairy-free version everyone can enjoy.

Serving Suggestions for Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate

Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combo.
Serve alongside freshly brewed coffee or a creamy latte for a delightful afternoon treat.
For a fancy touch, drizzle with caramel sauce and top with berries.
Presentation tip: Arrange on a colorful platter for a beautiful dessert table centerpiece.

FAQs about Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate

Can I make Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate ahead of time? Absolutely! This dessert stores well in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. You can also freeze it for extended storage; just thaw it in the fridge before serving!

Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted in the recipe? Yes, you can! If you choose unsalted butter, just add a pinch of extra salt in the crust and caramel layers to keep that delightful salty-sweet balance.

What can I substitute for the sweetened condensed milk? If you’re looking for an alternative, you can use homemade vegan condensed milk made from coconut or cashew milk. It will provide a similar creaminess and sweetness for the caramel layer.

How thick should the caramel layer be after cooking? The caramel should be thick enough to hold its shape when poured over the crust. When it reaches a temperature of 225°F, it’s ready—just like perfect candy!

Can I customize the chocolate ganache flavor? Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding a splash of flavored extract, like peppermint or orange, to the warm cream before mixing it with the chocolate. It’s a fun way to give this dessert your unique flavor stamp!

Final Thoughts

Creating Millionaire Shortbread Caramel Chocolate isn’t just about making a dessert; it’s about sharing joy and love with family and friends. Each luscious layer tells a story, from the buttery shortbread to the rich caramel and smooth chocolate ganache. I cherish the moments spent in the kitchen, experimenting while my kids eagerly wait to taste the sweet outcome. This homemade treat is perfect for any occasion and will surely delight those who enjoy it. So, grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and embark on this delicious journey. You won’t regret it, and your loved ones will thank you!