Millionaires Shortbread Recipe

Plain flour: The base ingredient for the shortbread, providing structure and a tender crumb.

Caster sugar: A fine sugar that blends easily into the shortbread dough for sweetness.

Butter: Used in both the shortbread base and the caramel layer, it adds richness and flavor.

Brown sugar: Adds a deeper, molasses-like sweetness to the caramel layer.

Sweetened condensed milk: Essential for creating the thick, creamy caramel layer.

Dark chocolate: Melted and poured over the caramel layer for a rich, bittersweet topping.

When making the shortbread base, ensure the butter is cold and cubed to achieve the right crumbly texture. This helps in creating a firm foundation for the caramel and chocolate layers. Additionally, when melting the chocolate, use a heatproof bowl over simmering water to prevent it from burning and to achieve a smooth, glossy finish.

• plain flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, making it a healthier option.

• plain flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour blend: For those with gluten intolerance, a gluten-free flour blend works well as a direct replacement.

• caster sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar: Granulated sugar can be used in place of caster sugar, though it may not dissolve as quickly.

• caster sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a slight caramel flavor.

• cold and cubed butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a non-dairy alternative, though it may alter the flavor slightly.

• cold and cubed butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil is a good dairy-free option and adds a subtle coconut flavor.

• butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee has a higher smoke point and a richer flavor, making it a good alternative.

• butter - Substitute with vegan butter: Vegan butter is a plant-based alternative that works well in baking.

• brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar provides a similar sweetness with a slight caramel undertone.

• brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a unique flavor and can be used in a 1:1 ratio, though it will make the mixture more liquid.

• sweetened condensed milk - Substitute with coconut condensed milk: Coconut condensed milk is a dairy-free alternative that works similarly in recipes.

• sweetened condensed milk - Substitute with evaporated milk and sugar: Combine evaporated milk with sugar to mimic the sweetness and consistency of sweetened condensed milk.

• dark chocolate - Substitute with milk chocolate: Milk chocolate is sweeter and less bitter, making it a good alternative for those who prefer a milder taste.

• dark chocolate - Substitute with semi-sweet chocolate: Semi-sweet chocolate provides a balanced sweetness and can be used as a direct replacement.

• To keep your millionaires shortbread fresh and delectable, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This will ensure the shortbread base remains crisp and the caramel layer stays gooey.

• If you prefer a firmer texture, you can refrigerate the dessert. Place the pieces in an airtight container with layers of parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. This method also extends the shelf life up to two weeks.

• For longer storage, millionaires shortbread can be frozen. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or a zip-lock bag. This will prevent freezer burn and maintain the flavor and texture.

• When you're ready to enjoy your frozen treat, simply thaw the pieces at room temperature for about an hour. Avoid microwaving as it can alter the texture of the caramel and chocolate layers.

• If you notice any condensation forming on the chocolate layer after thawing, gently dab it with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This will help maintain the appearance and taste of your millionaires shortbread.

• For best results, consume the shortbread within three months if frozen. This ensures the flavors remain vibrant and the texture stays optimal.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F).
  2. Place the Millionaires Shortbread on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
  3. Cover the tray loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the chocolate from melting too quickly.
  4. Heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
  5. Let it cool slightly before enjoying the gooey caramel and crisp shortbread layers.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place a piece of Millionaires Shortbread on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
  3. Check the texture; if it needs more time, heat in 10-second intervals until warmed through.
  4. Be cautious as the chocolate can melt quickly, making it messy but deliciously gooey.

• Room Temperature Method:

  1. Remove the Millionaires Shortbread from the refrigerator.
  2. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
  3. This method ensures the shortbread remains crisp while the caramel softens slightly, making it easier to bite into.

• Toaster Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your toaster oven to 150°C (300°F).
  2. Place the Millionaires Shortbread on a small baking tray.
  3. Cover with aluminum foil to protect the chocolate layer.
  4. Heat for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.
  5. Allow it to cool slightly before serving to enjoy the perfect balance of textures.

• Oven: Used to bake the shortbread base until golden and to preheat to the required temperature.

• Baking tin: Lined with parchment paper, this will hold the shortbread base, caramel, and chocolate layers.

• Parchment paper: Prevents the shortbread from sticking to the baking tin and makes it easier to remove once set.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the flour, caster sugar, and cold butter to create the shortbread base.

• Saucepan: Needed to melt the butter and brown sugar, and to cook the caramel layer with the condensed milk.

• Heatproof bowl: Used to melt the dark chocolate over simmering water.

• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the caramel mixture continuously to prevent it from burning.

• Spatula: Helps to smooth out the chocolate layer evenly over the caramel.

• Knife: Used to cut the set millionaire's shortbread into squares.

• Cooling rack: Allows the shortbread base to cool properly before adding the caramel layer.

• Measuring scale: Ensures precise measurement of ingredients like flour, sugar, and butter.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and cube the butter ahead of time to streamline the process.

Use a food processor: Combine the flour, caster sugar, and cold butter in a food processor to quickly achieve a breadcrumb-like texture.

Microwave caramel: Melt the butter and brown sugar in the microwave, then add the condensed milk and cook in short bursts, stirring frequently.

Chill in the fridge: Speed up the setting process by placing the caramel layer in the fridge.

Use microwave for chocolate: Melt the dark chocolate in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, to save time.