Millionaire’s Shortbread

Millionaire’s Shortbread is a luxurious dessert that combines a buttery shortbread crust, a rich caramel layer, and a smooth chocolate topping. This simple yet indulgent treat is perfect for any occasion, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 cup butter
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup milk chocolate chips

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, cream together the butter and white sugar until smooth.
3. Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour until the dough comes together.
4. Press the dough into a 9-inch square baking pan, creating an even layer.
5. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden.
6. In a saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk and milk chocolate chips. Stir over low heat until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
7. Spread the chocolate-caramel mixture evenly over the baked shortbread crust.
8. Allow the dessert to cool to room temperature before cutting it into squares.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 12

Variations

• Dark Chocolate: For a richer flavor, substitute milk chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips.
• Nutty Version: Add crushed nuts such as pecans or almonds to the caramel layer for added crunch and flavor.
• Salted Caramel: Sprinkle a little sea salt over the caramel layer before cooling to create a sweet and salty contrast.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store Millionaire’s Shortbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, refrigerate the squares for up to two weeks.
• Reheating: Millionaire’s Shortbread is best enjoyed at room temperature. If you prefer it warm, gently heat it in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter? Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute for butter, though the flavor and texture may differ slightly.
2. Can I use a different type of chocolate? Absolutely! You can use dark, semi-sweet, or even white chocolate depending on your preferences.
3. Do I need to chill the shortbread before cutting? It’s not necessary to chill the shortbread, but allowing it to cool completely will make cutting easier and cleaner.
4. How thick should the shortbread layer be? The shortbread layer should be about 1/4 inch thick when pressed into the pan.
5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
6. Can I freeze Millionaire’s Shortbread? Yes, you can freeze the shortbread for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container before freezing.
7. How long do I bake the shortbread crust? Bake the crust for 20 minutes or until it is lightly golden.
8. Can I add caramel to the recipe? While the sweetened condensed milk mixture already creates a caramel-like layer, you can add a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra sweetness.
9. What should I use to cut the shortbread? A sharp knife or a serrated knife works best for cutting Millionaire’s Shortbread into neat squares.
10. Is this recipe suitable for gifting? Yes, Millionaire’s Shortbread makes a fantastic gift, especially when cut into small squares and packaged in a decorative box.

Conclusion

Millionaire’s Shortbread is a decadent treat that’s sure to impress anyone who tries it. With its buttery shortbread base, rich caramel layer, and smooth chocolate topping, it’s a dessert that offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just as a treat to enjoy at home, this recipe is easy to follow and yields delicious results every time.

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