Millionaire Shortbread

Millionaire’s Shortbread is a luxurious layered dessert made with a buttery shortbread base, a thick layer of caramel, and a glossy chocolate topping. This classic treat is beloved for its rich flavors and satisfying texture, making it perfect for special occasions or as a decadent everyday indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Decadent: Each bite delivers a perfect balance of crumbly shortbread, smooth caramel, and rich chocolate.

• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, this recipe is easy to prepare at home.

• Perfect for Sharing: These bars slice beautifully into squares, making them ideal for gatherings, parties, or gifting.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: This dessert keeps well, so you can prepare it in advance.

Ingredients

For the Shortbread Base:

• 250g plain flour

• 75g caster sugar

• 175g unsalted butter, softened

For the Caramel Layer:

• 100g unsalted butter

• 100g light muscovado sugar

• 1 can (397g) sweetened condensed milk

For the Chocolate Topping:

• 200g milk or dark chocolate, broken into pieces

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Shortbread Base
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or gas mark 4. Line a 20-22cm square baking tin with parchment paper, allowing extra paper to hang over the sides.
   In a large bowl, mix the flour and caster sugar. Rub in the softened butter until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Press the mixture evenly into the tin and prick the surface lightly with a fork.
   Bake for 20 minutes or until lightly golden. Let it cool in the tin.

2. Make the Caramel Layer
   In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the muscovado sugar and sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves.
   Increase the heat slightly and bring to a gentle boil, stirring continuously to prevent burning. Cook for 5–10 minutes until the mixture thickens and turns golden.
   Pour the caramel over the cooled shortbread base and smooth it out evenly. Let it cool and set completely.

3. Add the Chocolate Topping
   Melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in short bursts in the microwave. Stir until smooth.
   Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer, spreading it evenly. Leave to set at room temperature or chill in the fridge until firm.
   Once set, lift the shortbread out using the parchment paper and cut into squares.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes approximately 16 squares

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes

• Cooking Time: 35 minutes

• Cooling and Setting Time: About 2 hours

• Total Time: Approximately 3 hours

Variations

• Salted Caramel: Add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel or sprinkle flaky salt over the chocolate layer for a sweet-salty twist.

• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts like hazelnuts or almonds over the caramel before adding the chocolate.

• White Chocolate Topping: Swap milk or dark chocolate with white chocolate for a lighter finish.

• Biscuit Base: Use crushed digestive biscuits with melted butter for a no-bake base alternative.

• Flavored Caramel: Stir in a bit of vanilla extract or a splash of coffee for added depth.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

• Refrigeration: Can also be stored in the fridge to extend shelf life up to 10 days.

• Freezing: Freeze in layers with parchment paper between pieces for up to 3 months.

• Serving: Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

FAQs

What is Millionaire’s Shortbread?

Millionaire’s Shortbread is a dessert bar with three layers: shortbread, caramel, and chocolate. It’s known for its rich, indulgent flavor and satisfying texture.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, it stores well and can be made a day or two in advance. Just keep it in an airtight container until ready to serve.

Why is my caramel too runny?

This usually happens when the caramel hasn’t been cooked long enough. It should be thick and golden before pouring over the shortbread.

How do I get clean slices?

Use a sharp knife warmed in hot water and wiped dry. Let the dessert sit at room temperature before slicing to avoid cracks in the chocolate.

Can I use store-bought caramel?

Yes, but make sure it’s thick and firm enough to hold its shape between the layers.

What kind of chocolate works best?

Milk chocolate is traditional, but dark chocolate adds a pleasant bitterness to balance the sweetness. Use high-quality chocolate for the best results.

Can I add flavors to the caramel?

Absolutely. You can stir in vanilla extract, a pinch of sea salt, or even a splash of your favorite liqueur for added flavor.

Is there a gluten-free version?

Yes, simply substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and use a larger baking tin. Baking time for the shortbread may need to be adjusted slightly.

Do I need to refrigerate Millionaire’s Shortbread?

Refrigeration helps the layers set more quickly, but it can be stored at room temperature unless it’s particularly warm.

Conclusion

Millionaire’s Shortbread is the ultimate indulgent dessert—rich, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make at home. With its buttery base, luscious caramel, and smooth chocolate topping, it’s a treat that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re preparing it for a special event or just for a sweet snack, this classic recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.