Millionaires Shortbread Caramel Chocolate Bars

Millionaires Shortbread Buttery Caramel Chocolate Bars
By Emily Collins

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Fancy a treat that's pure indulgence? Ever wondered how the perfect Caramel Chocolate Bars with Buttery shortbread tastes? These bars are seriously moreish.

The buttery shortbread, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate are the perfect combo.

Brief Overview

Millionaire's Shortbread, or Caramel Chocolate Bars as some call them, is a classic British bake. It's basically happiness in bar form.

It's a medium difficulty recipe that takes about 1 hour 30 minutes total. This recipe makes 16 delightful bars.

Main Benefits

Honestly, the best thing is how good these taste . But also, using proper butter in the shortbread adds a good hit of healthy fats.

It's perfect for afternoon tea or a cheeky dessert. What makes these bars special? The layers!

Buttery Bliss: Shortbread Magic

Ready for the Buttery Shortbread Recipe ? This is the foundation of our masterpiece. We need 1 cup (2 sticks, 227g) of cold, cubed unsalted butter.

Also get 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar, 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour, and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt. Cold butter is crucial for that crumbly texture.

Gooey Goodness: Crafting the Perfect Caramel

Next up, the caramel! For this Homemade Caramel Bars layer, you'll need 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar. Plus, 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream, 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter (cubed), and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt.

Watch the sugar carefully, it can burn super fast.

Chocolate Dreams: The Ganache Finale

Finally, the chocolate ganache. Grab 8 ounces (227g) bittersweet chocolate (finely chopped), and 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream. A tablespoon (14g) of butter is optional, but it adds a lovely shine! For a richer flavor consider Chocolate Ganache Shortbread .

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Started!

Ready to make Caramel Chocolate Bars with Buttery shortbread? Sweet! Before we start, let’s gather our bits and bobs. No fancy equipment needed. Just proper ingredients.

The What's What of Ingredients

Here's the shopping list for your new favourite treat. Think of this like your backstage pass to shortbread heaven.

Main Ingredients

  • Buttery Shortbread:
    • 1 cup (2 sticks, 227g) cold, cubed unsalted butter. Quality check : Butter should be firm.
    • ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar.
    • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour.
    • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt.
  • Gooey Caramel:
    • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar. Watch it!
    • ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream.
    • ¼ cup (57g) cubed unsalted butter.
    • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt.
  • Chocolate Ganache:
    • 8 ounces (227g) bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped. Aim for high-quality chocolate.
    • ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream.
    • 1 tablespoon (14g) cubed unsalted butter (optional, for shine).

Seasoning Notes: Elevate Your Flavours

These little tweaks will make all the difference. Honestly, a pinch of this and a dash of that, changes everything!

  • Essential spice combinations: A touch of vanilla extract in the caramel adds a cosy warmth.
  • Flavour enhancers: A sprinkle of sea salt on the ganache cuts through the sweetness. Yum!
  • Quick substitution options: No bittersweet chocolate? Semi sweet works. But remember, less bitterness.

Kit List: Essential Tools Only

You don’t need a professional kitchen. You just need some basics. And perhaps some elbow grease!.

  • Essential tools:
    • 9x13 inch baking pan.
    • Parchment paper. Trust me, makes life easier.
    • Saucepan.
  • Household alternatives:
    • Stand mixer (optional). You can use your hands.
    • Double boiler (optional). A bowl over a simmering pot works great!

So there you have it. Now you have everything to bake the best Caramel Chocolate Bars . These Homemade Caramel Bars will be divine.

Let's get cracking! This Buttery Shortbread Recipe makes the perfect base for Triple Layer Caramel Bars . We are about to create the best Millionaire's Shortbread you've ever tasted, or more particularly Caramel Shortbread Bars of pure gold.

Alright, let's dive headfirst into making these utterly scrumptious Millionaire's Shortbread: Caramel Chocolate Bars with Buttery Shortbread . Honestly, these are my absolute weakness.

A classic British bake, also known as Triple Layer Caramel Bars , It's the ultimate indulgence. We're talking about a buttery shortbread base, a gooey caramel centre, and a rich chocolate ganache on top.

Are you ready to get started?

Prep Like a Pro: Getting Your Ducks in a Row

First, let's talk prep. It’s all about mise en place , baby. That just means getting everything organised before you even think about switching on the oven.

  • Essential mise en place. Get your butter cubed, flour measured, and chocolate chopped. Trust me; it will save you a headache later.

  • Time saving organisation tips. Line your baking pan with parchment paper. Make sure you leave some overhang, so you can easily lift the bars out later.

    Pro tip: Measure out all your ingredients into bowls.

  • Safety Reminders. Watch that caramel like a hawk! Seriously, burnt sugar is not your friend. Use medium heat and stir constantly .

step-by-step to Caramel Chocolate Bar Nirvana

Alright, enough chit chat, let's get baking! Follow these simple steps to Caramel Chocolate Bars perfection:

  1. Preheat your oven to 325° F ( 160° C) .
  2. Combine cold, cubed butter, sugar, flour, and salt. Then, press the mixture into the prepared pan. Make sure you do this evenly.
  3. Bake for 30- 35 minutes until lightly golden brown.
  4. Melt sugar for the caramel. Add cream, butter, and salt until smooth. Pour over cooled shortbread.
  5. Chill until the caramel is completely set.
  6. Heat cream, pour over chopped chocolate. Then, stir until smooth for the ganache, and then pour over the cooled caramel.
  7. Refrigerate until fully set.
  8. Lift out and cut into bars. Serve with a cuppa and a cheeky grin.

Millionaire's Pro Tips: Secrets of the Caramel Masters

I've made my fair share of these Chocolate Caramel Bars , and I've learned a few things along the way. Now, let's get into a few expert techniques or shortcuts.

  • Common mistakes to avoid. Don't overbake the shortbread! It should be just golden brown. Overbaking leads to dry, crumbly sadness.

  • make-ahead options. You can make the shortbread a day ahead. Just wrap it tightly and store it at room temperature.

  • Expert techniques or shortcuts. For that extra 'oomph', sprinkle flaky sea salt over the ganache right after you've spread it. Salted Caramel Shortbread Bars are where it's at!

I truly hope you enjoy these rich and delicious Homemade Caramel Bars . It's the easiest Easy Millionaire Shortbread recipe ever. Happy baking!

Recipe Notes for Your Perfect Millionaire's Shortbread

Right, so you're about to embark on making these amazing Caramel Chocolate Bars with Buttery shortbread. Let’s talk about some important bits.

I’ve made my fair share of these, and honestly, sometimes it's been a total triumph, other times… well, let's just say the caramel has been a tad bit too dark, nearly had the fire brigade over!

Serving Your Slice of Heaven

Plating and Presentation Ideas: Forget being shy. Slice these Triple Layer Caramel Bars into neat squares. Arrange them beautifully on a platter.

Dust with cocoa powder. Or, get fancy and drizzle melted chocolate over.

Complementary Sides or Beverages: Honestly, these bad boys go with everything. But, I'd suggest a strong cuppa, builders tea. A proper brew cuts through the richness.

A glass of cold milk works too, or even a small scoop of vanilla ice cream. Talk about a perfect dessert!

Storing for Maximum Freshness

Refrigeration Guidelines: Once you’ve cut your Chocolate Caramel Bars , stick them in an airtight container. Pop them in the fridge.

They'll happily keep for about five days. I doubt they'll last that long though!

Freezing Options: Need to make-ahead? No worries. You can freeze these Easy Millionaire Shortbread . Wrap them individually in cling film.

Then, put them in a freezer bag. They'll last up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Reheating Instructions: You shouldn't need to reheat these. They are best enjoyed straight from the fridge. If you’ve frozen them, allow them to thaw completely before eating.

Spice Up Your Shortbread

Dietary Adaptations: Fancy a gluten-free Millionaire's Shortbread ? Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the shortbread base. Easy peasy!

Seasonal Ingredient Swaps: In the autumn, try adding a pinch of cinnamon to the caramel. It's warming and delicious. During Christmas, throw some chopped candied orange peel into the shortbread for a festive twist.

Knowledge is Power, Nutrition Wise!

Simplified Nutrition Information: Each Caramel Chocolate Bar is a treat. Roughly, you're looking at around 450 calories per bar.

Key Health Benefits: OK, let's be real. These aren't exactly health food. But a little bit of what you fancy does you good, right? Plus, dark chocolate has antioxidants.

So, that's something .

Alright, there you have it! All the essential notes to create the perfect Homemade Caramel Bars . Don’t be scared to experiment and have fun. Now, go on, bake something amazing!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did my shortbread turn out tough? It was more biscuit than crumbly!

Tough shortbread is a common baking blunder, a bit like soggy bottoms on The Great British Bake Off! The main culprit is overworking the dough, which develops the gluten in the flour. Make sure your butter is cold and use a light touch when mixing. Also, avoid over kneading when pressing the dough into the pan.

Aim for a gently pressed, even layer.

Help! My caramel is burnt and tastes bitter. How can I avoid this next time when making these Caramel Chocolate Bars with Buttery Shortbread?

Burnt caramel is a baker's worst nightmare. The key is to use medium heat and stir constantly while the sugar melts. Don't walk away from the stove! Once the sugar is melted and amber colored, immediately add the heavy cream.

A candy thermometer can also be your friend, though not strictly necessary aim for the soft ball stage (around 235-240°F or 112-116°C).

Can I make these Caramel Chocolate Bars with Buttery Shortbread ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars are actually better when made ahead. The flavors meld together beautifully overnight in the refrigerator. You can make the entire batch 1-2 days in advance. Just be sure to store them properly in an airtight container in the fridge, and let them sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving for easier cutting.

My chocolate ganache is grainy or split. What did I do wrong, and how can I fix it?

A grainy or split ganache usually means the fat and liquid haven't emulsified properly. This can happen if the cream is too hot or cold, or if you didn't stir gently enough. Try adding a tablespoon of warm milk or cream and stirring slowly and steadily until it comes back together.

If it's really stubborn, try using an immersion blender for a smooth finish.

What's the best way to cut these bars neatly without the chocolate cracking?

Patience is key! Ensure the ganache is completely set in the fridge. Use a large, sharp knife and warm it under hot water, then dry it thoroughly before each cut. This will help it glide through the chocolate without cracking.

You can also try scoring the chocolate with the warm knife first to create clean lines, then cut through completely.

How should I store leftover Caramel Chocolate Bars with Buttery Shortbread, and how long will they last?

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The fridge keeps the caramel firm and prevents the chocolate from melting. You can also freeze them for longer storage (up to 2 months). Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer safe container.

Thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Millionaires Shortbread Caramel Chocolate Bars

Millionaires Shortbread Buttery Caramel Chocolate Bars Recipe Card
0.0 / 5 (0 Review)
Preparation time:25 Mins
Cooking time:35 Mins
Servings:16 bars

Ingredients:

Instructions:

Nutrition Facts:

Calories450 calories
Fat30g
Fiber4g

Recipe Info:

CategoryDessert
CuisineBritish

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