Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Millionaire Shortbread is the ultimate indulgent treat that combines buttery shortbread, rich caramel, and a smooth chocolate topping. This no-bake dessert is a crowd-pleaser, with layers of flavor and texture that are impossible to resist. Perfect for any special occasion or when you’re in the mood for a decadent treat, Millionaire Shortbread will quickly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Shortbread Base:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Caramel Layer:

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
2 tablespoons golden syrup (or corn syrup)
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

For the Chocolate Topping:

200g (about 7 oz) dark chocolate or milk chocolate, chopped
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

directions

Make the Shortbread Base:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, melted butter, sugar, and salt. Mix until it forms a dough-like consistency.
Press the dough into the base of the prepared pan, smoothing it out with the back of a spoon to create an even layer.
Bake for 15-18 minutes or until lightly golden. Let the shortbread cool completely in the pan.
Prepare the Caramel Layer:
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, brown sugar, golden syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir occasionally until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture begins to bubble.
Continue to cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly, until the caramel thickens and becomes smooth. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
Pour the caramel over the cooled shortbread base and spread evenly. Let the caramel layer set at room temperature for about 1 hour or refrigerate for 30 minutes until firm.
Make the Chocolate Topping:
In a heatproof bowl, melt the chocolate and butter together over a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each. Once melted and smooth, pour the chocolate over the set caramel layer.
Use a spatula to spread the chocolate evenly over the top.
Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate the Millionaire Shortbread for at least 2 hours to allow the chocolate to firm up. Once set, remove from the pan using the parchment paper and cut into squares or bars.
Serve and enjoy!

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 16-20 bars, depending on how large you cut them.

Preparation time: 15 minutes (excluding cooling and chilling)
Baking time: 15-18 minutes
Total time: 3 hours (including chilling)

Variations

Add a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate layer for a salted caramel twist.
Use white chocolate instead of dark or milk chocolate for a different flavor profile.
Add crushed nuts like hazelnuts, almonds, or pecans to the caramel layer for a crunchy texture.
For a festive touch, top with mini marshmallows or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

storage/reheating

Store Millionaire Shortbread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
These bars can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container.

FAQs

Can I make this without golden syrup?
Yes, you can substitute golden syrup with corn syrup or maple syrup for a similar texture and sweetness.

Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Absolutely! You can use milk chocolate or even white chocolate if you prefer a sweeter, less intense topping.

How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking when cutting?
Let the bars chill completely before cutting. Use a sharp knife and cut gently to avoid cracking the chocolate layer.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour in place of regular flour to make the shortbread base gluten-free.

Conclusion

Millionaire Shortbread is a truly indulgent treat that combines the best of buttery shortbread, rich caramel, and smooth chocolate into one irresistible dessert. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, these decadent bars are sure to impress. Once you try them, they might just become your new go-to dessert!