Millionaire Shortbread Bars Recipe

Name: Millionaire Shortbread Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Scottish
Ingredients: 1/2 cup sugar; 1 1/4 cups unsalted butter (softened); 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 28 ounces sweetened condensed milk; 6 ounces dark chocolate (60% cacao); Sea salt (for finishing)

Published: August 16, 2025

by Alexia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Decadent Layers: Enjoy the delightful combination of shortbread, caramel, and chocolate in every bite.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these bars in no time.
Perfect for Sharing: Cut them into small squares for parties or potlucks; they’re sure to impress your friends and family.
Versatile Treat: Ideal for any occasion—from birthdays to holidays—these bars fit right in with dessert spreads.
Customizable: Add toppings like nuts or sprinkles to make them uniquely yours!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather the essential tools needed for this recipe. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking pan (9×13 inches)
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Rubber spatula
Saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

Baking pan: A good quality pan ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect square shape.
Mixing bowls: Having multiple mixing bowls allows you to separate your ingredients easily and keep things organized.

Ingredients

For the Shortbread Base

1/2 cup sugar
1 1/4 cup (2 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter softened
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 large egg yolk, slightly beaten

For the Caramel Layer

28 ounces sweetened condensed milk (two 14-ounce cans)
6 ounces dark chocolate (60% cacao), coarsely chopped
1 teaspoon light corn syrup
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

For Finishing Touches

Sea salt, for finishing

How to Make Millionaire Shortbread Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper. This will help with easy removal once baked.

Step 2: Make the Shortbread Base

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan.

Step 3: Bake the Shortbread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the shortbread base for about 20 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from oven and allow it to cool slightly.

Step 4: Prepare the Caramel Layer

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sweetened condensed milk, butter, corn syrup, and cook while stirring continuously. Bring it to a boil while stirring constantly until it thickens (about 5 minutes). Pour this caramel over the cooled shortbread base.

Step 5: Melt Chocolate Topping

In a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, melt the dark chocolate until smooth. Stir well and pour over the caramel layer in an even coat.

Step 6: Finish with Sea Salt

Sprinkle sea salt on top of the melted chocolate for that perfect finishing touch. Allow everything to set at room temperature or refrigerate until firm.

Step 7: Cut Into Bars

Once set, lift the entire slab out of the pan using parchment paper if used. Cut into squares or bars as desired. Enjoy your homemade Millionaire Shortbread Bars!

How to Serve Millionaire Shortbread Bars Recipe

Serving Millionaire Shortbread Bars is all about enhancing their rich flavors and textures. These bars are perfect for various occasions and can be presented in creative ways.

With Fresh Berries

Serve the bars with a side of mixed berries like strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries. The tartness of the berries complements the sweetness of the bars beautifully.

With Whipped Cream

A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast to the dense texture of the Millionaire Shortbread Bars.

As Coffee Accompaniment

Pair these bars with a cup of coffee or espresso. The bitterness of the coffee balances out the sweetness perfectly.

With Ice Cream

Serve warm bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. The melting ice cream will enhance the chocolate and caramel flavors.

During Celebrations

Cut into smaller squares and serve them at parties or special events. Their rich taste makes them a delightful treat for guests.

How to Perfect Millionaire Shortbread Bars Recipe

To make your Millionaire Shortbread Bars truly exceptional, follow these tips for an ideal outcome.

Use Room Temperature Butter: Ensuring your butter is softened helps create a smooth shortbread base, leading to better texture.
Chill Between Layers: After adding each layer (shortbread, caramel, and chocolate), chill in the refrigerator before adding the next one. This ensures clean cuts when serving.
Measure Precisely: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking. Use a kitchen scale for best results, especially for flour and sugar.
Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality dark chocolate and fresh butter. These ingredients greatly enhance flavor.
Let it Cool Completely: Allowing the bars to cool completely before slicing helps maintain their structure and makes serving easier.
Top with Sea Salt: A sprinkle of sea salt on top elevates the flavor profile by balancing sweetness with savory notes.

Best Side Dishes for Millionaire Shortbread Bars Recipe

These Millionaire Shortbread Bars pair well with various sides that can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options to serve alongside:

Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness to your dessert table.
Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses provides a savory counterbalance to sweet bars.
Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of shortbread into warm chocolate for an extra indulgence.
Coffee Cake: This classic treat pairs nicely, offering different textures and flavors.
Nut Mix: A bowl of spiced nuts adds crunchiness that contrasts well with the softness of the bars.
Tea Selection: Offer a variety of teas, such as Earl Grey or chai, which pair wonderfully with desserts.
Caramel Sauce: Serve additional caramel sauce on the side for those who crave more sweetness.
Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Create a fun sundae station where guests can top their ice cream with bits of shortbread and other toppings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Millionaire Shortbread Bars can be simple, but there are common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Skipping the chilling step: Not allowing the layers to chill properly can result in a messy cut and a less structured bar. Be sure to refrigerate each layer before adding the next.
Overbaking the shortbread: Baking the shortbread too long can lead to a hard texture. Keep an eye on it and remove it once it’s lightly golden on the edges.
Using cold butter: Cold butter will not cream properly with sugar, affecting the texture of your shortbread base. Always use softened butter for the best results.
Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science, and inaccurate measurements can alter textures and flavors. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
Forgetting to add sea salt: Salt enhances sweetness, especially in desserts. Don’t skip the finishing touch of sea salt on top; it balances flavors beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Millionaire Shortbread Bars Recipe

Wrap bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating Millionaire Shortbread Bars Recipe

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat bars for about 10 minutes until warm.
Microwave: Heat individual bars for 15-20 seconds on medium power.
Stovetop: Place bars in a pan over low heat for a few minutes, being careful not to burn them.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the origin of Millionaire Shortbread Bars?

Millionaire Shortbread Bars originated in Scotland, where they are known as Caramel Shortcake. This dessert has become popular worldwide due to its rich layers of flavor and texture.

Can I customize my Millionaire Shortbread Bars recipe?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, on top of the caramel layer or experiment with different types of chocolate like milk chocolate or white chocolate for drizzling.

How do I ensure my caramel layer sets properly?

To ensure your caramel sets well, cook it slowly over medium heat while stirring constantly until it thickens. Allow it to cool completely before topping with chocolate.

What is the best way to cut Millionaire Shortbread Bars?

To cut clean slices, use a sharp knife that has been warmed under hot water. This helps prevent cracking and keeps layers intact.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free flour as a substitute for all-purpose flour in the recipe for delicious gluten-free Millionaire Shortbread Bars.

Final Thoughts

This Millionaire Shortbread Bars recipe is a delightful treat that combines buttery shortbread, sweet caramel, and rich chocolate. It’s perfect for any occasion and allows for creative customization based on your preferences. We encourage you to try this recipe and explore variations that suit your taste!

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