Millionaire Shortbread Bars Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth craving something irresistibly rich and layered, you absolutely must try this Millionaire Shortbread Bars Recipe. Combining a buttery shortbread base, a luscious caramel middle, and a decadent chocolate topping, these bars are a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with its luscious layers and simple preparation that anyone can master.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Millionaire Shortbread Bars Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients. Each component not only builds texture but also adds distinct flavor notes that make every bite unforgettable.

• 1 1/3 cups unsalted butter (softened): This creates the rich and tender shortbread base that melts in your mouth.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds a gentle sweetness and helps create the perfect crumbly texture.
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the shortbread, giving structure and balance.
• Pinch fine sea salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
• 1 cup unsalted butter (cut into tablespoons): Essential for the silky, smooth caramel layer.
• 1 cup light brown sugar (packed): Adds warmth and depth to the caramel filling.
• 1 cup sweetened condensed milk: Gives the caramel its creamy, rich consistency.
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup: Keeps the caramel smooth and prevents crystallization.
• 12 ounces semi-sweet baking bars (finely chopped): The chocolate topping that perfectly complements the sweetness underneath.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Added to the chocolate for a glossy, silky finish.
• Flaky sea salt (for garnish, optional): A final flourish to elevate the flavors and add a subtle crunch.

How to Make Millionaire Shortbread Bars Recipe

Step 1: Get Your Oven and Pan Ready

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 9×13 baking dish with parchment paper, then spray it lightly with cooking spray. This step ensures your bars will come out with perfect edges and won’t stick to the pan. It’s the first step towards your dreamy, layered treat!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar for about 3 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, which helps create that delicate shortbread crumb that’s so essential.

Step 3: Mix in Flour and Salt

Add the all-purpose flour and a pinch of sea salt to the creamed mixture. Stir gently until everything is fully combined and there are no dry patches. This dough will form the tender shortbread base that holds all the indulgent layers on top.

Step 4: Bake the Shortbread Base

Press the dough evenly into your prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 23 to 28 minutes until the edges turn a light golden brown and the center looks dry. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. This perfectly baked crust is the sturdy yet tender foundation you want for these bars.

Step 5: Let the Shortbread Cool Completely

Cool the crust fully in the pan. This step is crucial so that the caramel layer doesn’t melt into the shortbread, allowing each layer to stay distinct and delicious.

Step 6: Make the Caramel Filling

In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and light corn syrup over medium-low heat. Stir constantly because this mixture requires your full attention to prevent burning. Carefully bring it just to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.

Step 7: Simmer the Caramel

Gently simmer the mixture for 5 minutes, keeping the stirring consistent. This slow simmer is key to achieve the perfect smooth and creamy caramel texture while avoiding any scorching or boiling that could ruin the consistency.

Step 8: Cool the Caramel Slightly and Pour

Remove the pot from the heat and keep stirring the caramel for about 4 minutes to let it cool slightly. Once ready, pour it evenly over the cooled shortbread base. Transfer the pan to the freezer for 2 hours to set the caramel layer firm and luscious.

Step 9: Prepare the Chocolate Topping

Place the chopped semi-sweet chocolate and butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Melt in 15-second bursts, stirring in between until smooth and silky. This method prevents overheating and helps you achieve a shiny, luxurious chocolate layer.

Step 10: Spread Chocolate and Chill

Pour and spread the melted chocolate evenly over the set caramel. Then place the dish in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to fully set the chocolate topping. When ready, use the parchment paper to lift the entire slab from the pan and cut into squares. For an extra touch, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before serving.

How to Serve Millionaire Shortbread Bars Recipe

Garnishes

A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the chocolate adds a delightful contrast to the sweet layers and enhances the overall flavor, giving these bars a gourmet touch. You can also add a few toasted nuts or edible gold flakes for a special occasion.

Side Dishes

Serve these bars alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a dreamy dessert experience. They also pair beautifully with a fresh cup of coffee or a robust cup of tea, perfect as an afternoon pick-me-up or dessert after dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the bars into mini towers for a fun party display, or cut them into bite-sized pieces and serve them on a decorative platter for easy sharing. Wrapping individual bars in parchment paper tied with a ribbon also makes a thoughtful and delicious homemade gift.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Millionaire Shortbread Bars Recipe pieces stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and maintain their texture for up to 5 days, making them perfect for enjoying throughout the week without losing their incredible flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze these bars by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When properly stored, they freeze well for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture before serving.

Reheating

This dessert is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature to preserve the delightful layering, but if you prefer a slightly warm treat, pop a piece in the microwave for about 10 seconds. This softens the chocolate just enough while keeping the caramel intact.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

You can use salted butter, but be cautious with adding additional salt elsewhere in the recipe. Unsalted butter gives you more control over the final saltiness, especially since flaky sea salt is used as a garnish.

Is it necessary to use light corn syrup in the caramel?

Light corn syrup helps prevent the caramel from crystallizing and keeps it smooth. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with an equal amount of honey or golden syrup, but the texture might vary slightly.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate will add a richer, slightly more bitter contrast to the sweet caramel and shortbread. Feel free to adjust according to your taste preference.

How do I make sure the caramel doesn’t burn?

Stir constantly and keep the heat low. Watch for bubbling and, if the mixture starts boiling aggressively, remove it from heat briefly while stirring, then return to the stove. Patience is key for silky caramel.

What’s the best way to cut these bars cleanly?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry before slicing. This technique helps you slice through the layers without cracking the chocolate or dragging the caramel.

Final Thoughts

This Millionaire Shortbread Bars Recipe is one of those indulgent treats that truly feels like a celebration in every bite. From the buttery crust to the luscious caramel and glossy chocolate top, making and sharing these bars brings a special kind of joy. I promise once you try this recipe, it will become a beloved favorite you’ll want to make over and over again!

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