Directions to follow
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add in the egg yolks and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour and both types of salt until just combined; avoid over-mixing.
- Press the shortbread mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until it turns golden brown.
- For the caramel layer, combine the sweetened condensed milk, light brown sugar, and corn syrup in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens—about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour the warm caramel layer over the baked shortbread and return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes.
- In a double boiler, melt together the chocolate chips and heavy cream, stirring until the mixture is smooth. Gently pour this melted chocolate over the caramel layer.
- For that final touch, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top and refrigerate until everything is set, about 1-2 hours.
- Once set, remove from the refrigerator, cut into bars, and serve!
Best ways to enjoy it
Millionaire Shortbread is best enjoyed chilled, allowing the layers to firm up perfectly. Serve these bars on a decorative platter for gatherings or pair them with a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of elegance. They also work well as a luxurious afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee.
How to store
To keep your Millionaire Shortbread fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to a week, making it the perfect treat to make ahead of time. If you want to extend its life, consider wrapping the bars tightly and freezing them. Just ensure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming.
- For a richer caramel flavor, let the brown sugar cook a little longer.
- If you don’t have a double boiler, you can melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water—just watch it closely to avoid burning!
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? You can incorporate different flavor profiles into your Millionaire Shortbread. Add a hint of espresso powder to the chocolate layer for a mocha flavor or try various chocolate types: white, dark, or even flavored chocolate. For a nutty crunch, toss in some finely chopped nuts into the caramel layer!
Common questions
What is the prep time for Millionaire Shortbread?
The prep time is approximately 25 minutes, while the bake time totals around 30-35 minutes.
Can I substitute the butter?
You can use margarine or a plant-based alternative, but the texture might vary slightly.
Is it safe to eat if left out overnight?
It’s best to store them in the refrigerator, as the caramel layer can become too soft if left out at room temperature for extended periods. This keeps everything stable and fresh for tasting.
With these steps and tips, your Millionaire Shortbread is bound to impress anyone lucky enough to snag a piece!
