Caramel Shortbread Squares (Millionaire’s Shortbread)

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These decadent, buttery squares feature a crisp shortbread base, gooey caramel center, and rich chocolate topping—a luxurious treat that’s worth every calorie!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Three perfect layers – Crunchy, chewy, and silky
✅ Make-ahead friendly – Stays fresh for days
✅ Impressive yet simple – Looks like it came from a patisserie
✅ Customizable – Use dark, milk, or white chocolate

Ingredients & Substitutions

For the Shortbread Base

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ tsp salt

For the Caramel Layer

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
  • 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • ¼ cup golden syrup (or light corn syrup)

For the Chocolate Topping

  • 7 oz (200g) dark chocolate, chopped
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for shine)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Shortbread

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment.
  2. Cream butter and sugar, then mix in flour and salt until crumbly.
  3. Press firmly into pan. Bake 25-30 mins until golden. Cool completely.

2. Prepare the Caramel

  1. In a saucepan, melt butter, brown sugar, condensed milk, and syrup.
  2. Simmer 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly, until deep golden (see note).
  3. Pour over cooled shortbread. Chill 1 hour until set.

3. Add Chocolate Layer

  1. Melt chocolate and oil (microwave or double boiler).
  2. Spread over caramel. Chill 30 mins until firm.

4. Cut & Serve

  • Slice into small squares (it’s rich!).
  • Store in an airtight container.

Pro Tips

🔥 Caramel doneness: It should coat the back of a spoon thickly.
🍫 Clean cuts: Use a hot knife and wipe between slices.
⏳ Time-saver: Use pre-made caramel (like dulce de leche).

Variations

🧂 Salted caramel: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on chocolate.
🌰 Nutty crunch: Press toasted almonds into caramel.
🍊 Citrus twist: Add orange zest to chocolate.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate?

Yes! Reduce oil to ½ tbsp as it’s softer.

How to store?

Room temp for 3 days or fridge for 2 weeks.

Why is my caramel grainy?

Undissolved sugar crystals—stir constantly and use low heat.

Final Thoughts

These Caramel Shortbread Squares are pure indulgence—buttery, sweet, and chocolatey perfection. Ideal for holiday gift boxes or when you deserve something special!

Tip: Layer in mason jars for a stylish dessert gift! 🎁🍫

(Tag your creations #MillionaireShortbread!)

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