Indulge in Decadence: Millionaires Shortbread Recipe to Satisfy Your Sweet Cravings

Indulge in Decadence: Millionaires Shortbread Recipe to Satisfy Your Sweet Cravings

Millionaires Shortbread, also known as caramel slice or caramel shortcake, is a luxurious and indulgent dessert that combines layers of buttery shortbread, rich caramel, and smooth chocolate. This delectable treat originated in Scotland and has become a beloved classic in many parts of the world. The combination of flavors and textures in Millionaires Shortbread creates a truly irresistible sweet experience that is perfect for special occasions or simply treating yourself to a moment of pure decadence.

Ingredients required for making Millionaires Shortbread

To create this indulgent treat, you will need the following ingredients:

- 200g of plain flour

- 100g of caster sugar

- 200g of unsalted butter (cold and diced)

- A pinch of salt

- 397g can of sweetened condensed milk

- 100g of golden syrup

- 200g of milk chocolate

These simple yet essential ingredients come together to form the perfect combination of buttery shortbread, rich caramel, and smooth chocolate layers that make up the irresistible Millionaires Shortbread.

Step-by-step instructions for preparing the shortbread base

To start making the shortbread base for your Millionaires Shortbread, you will need to gather 200g of plain flour, 100g of caster sugar, and 100g of unsalted butter. Begin by preheating your oven to 160°C (320°F) and greasing a square baking tin. Next, mix the flour and sugar in a bowl before adding the butter. Using your fingertips, rub the mixture together until it resembles breadcrumbs. Press this mixture into the tin evenly using the back of a spoon. Prick the surface with a fork and bake in the oven for about 20 minutes until lightly golden. Allow it to cool before moving on to the next step.

How to make the luscious caramel layer

To make the luscious caramel layer for your Millionaires Shortbread, you will need 1 can of sweetened condensed milk, ½ cup of brown sugar, ½ cup of unsalted butter, and a pinch of salt. Start by melting the butter in a saucepan over low heat. Add the brown sugar and condensed milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and turns a rich caramel color. This process can take around 10-15 minutes. Be sure to keep stirring to prevent burning. Once the caramel is ready, pour it over the cooled shortbread base and spread it evenly using a spatula. Allow it to cool completely before adding the chocolate topping.

Adding the final touch with a decadent chocolate topping

Adding the final touch with a decadent chocolate topping is what elevates Millionaires Shortbread to a truly indulgent treat. For the perfect chocolate layer, melt high-quality dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring frequently until smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the set caramel layer, using a spatula to spread it evenly. Allow the chocolate to set completely before cutting into neat squares. The rich and velvety chocolate topping complements the buttery shortbread and gooey caramel, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will leave you craving for more.

Tips for perfecting your Millionaires Shortbread

1. **Butter Temperature**: Ensure your butter is at room temperature when making the shortbread base to achieve a crumbly texture.

2. **Caramel Consistency**: Cook the caramel layer until it reaches a golden brown color and thickens slightly to ensure a rich and gooey texture.

3. **Chocolate Tempering**: When melting chocolate for the topping, use a double boiler or microwave in short bursts to prevent burning and achieve a smooth finish.

4. **Chilling Time**: Allow enough time for each layer to set properly in the fridge before adding the next one to avoid mixing flavors.

5. **Cutting Technique**: Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water to get clean, neat slices without crumbling the layers.

By following these tips, you can create a perfect batch of Millionaires Shortbread every time, delighting your taste buds with its irresistible combination of flavors and textures.

Serving suggestions and storage recommendations

Serving suggestions: Once the Millionaires Shortbread has set, cut it into squares or bars for easy serving. For an extra touch of luxury, sprinkle some sea salt flakes on top to enhance the flavors. Pair this decadent treat with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of cold milk for a delightful indulgence.

Storage recommendations: To maintain the freshness and texture of your Millionaires Shortbread, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate the shortbread but allow it to come to room temperature before serving. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 2 months by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container.