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Millionaire's Shortbread Bars

Decadent triple-layered dessert featuring a buttery shortbread base, a thick gooey caramel center, and a rich dark chocolate topping.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 16 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, British
Calories: 410

Ingredients
  

Shortbread Base
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 0.25 tsp salt
Caramel Filling
  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 0.5 cup light brown sugar packed
  • 0.25 cup golden syrup or light corn syrup
  • 14 oz sweetened condensed milk 1 can
  • 0.5 tsp vanilla extract
  • 0.5 tsp flaky sea salt optional
Chocolate Topping
  • 10 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate chopped
  • 1 tbsp coconut oil or butter

Equipment

  • 9x9 inch baking pan
  • Heavy-bottomed saucepan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang.
  2. In a bowl, cream 1 cup softened butter and granulated sugar until pale. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until a crumbly dough forms.
  3. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Prick all over with a fork. Bake for 20-25 minutes until light golden brown. Let cool completely.
  4. In a heavy saucepan, combine 1 cup butter, brown sugar, golden syrup, and condensed milk over medium-low heat until melted and smooth.
  5. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to medium-low and boil, stirring continuously, for 5-7 minutes until thickened.
  6. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and sea salt. Pour immediately over the cooled shortbread base. Let set for 1 hour at room temp or 30 mins in the fridge.
  7. Melt the chopped chocolate and coconut oil in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring until smooth.
  8. Pour the melted chocolate over the set caramel and spread evenly. Chill in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours until set.
  9. Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before slicing. Use a hot, dry knife for clean cuts.

Notes

To ensure your chocolate doesn't crack when slicing, be sure to use the hot knife method described in the tips section. Dip the knife in boiling water, wipe it completely dry, and then press down gently to slice.