Description
Millionaire Shortbread is a dessert made with three delicious layers: a crisp and buttery shortbread base, a thick layer of homemade caramel, and a smooth chocolate topping. The Hairy Bikers’ version sticks to the classic recipe but elevates the flavor with high-quality ingredients and straightforward techniques.
Ingredients
Scale
To make one 9-inch square tin of millionaire shortbread, gather the following ingredients:
For the Shortbread Base:
- 225g (1 cup) plain flour: The base for the shortbread.
- 175g (¾ cup) unsalted butter, cold and cubed: Adds richness and helps bind the dough.
- 75g (⅓ cup) caster sugar: Sweetens the shortbread.
For the Caramel Layer:
- 100g (½ cup) unsalted butter: Forms the base of the caramel.
- 100g (½ cup) light brown sugar: Adds sweetness and a rich, caramelized flavor.
- 2 tbsp golden syrup: Helps thicken the caramel and adds sweetness.
- 400g (1 can) sweetened condensed milk: The key ingredient for a rich caramel filling.
For the Chocolate Topping:
- 200g (7oz) dark or milk chocolate (your preference): For a smooth, creamy top layer.
- 2 tsp vegetable oil (optional): Helps create a shiny, smooth finish.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Tin
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Line a 9-inch square baking tin with parchment paper, ensuring the edges hang over the sides for easy removal later.
Step 2: Make the Shortbread Base
- In a large bowl, rub the cold, cubed butter into the plain flour and caster sugar until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
- Press the dough evenly into the base of the prepared tin, using the back of a spoon to smooth it out.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the shortbread is firm and lightly golden. Set aside to cool.
Step 3: Prepare the Caramel Layer
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, light brown sugar, and golden syrup together, stirring continuously.
- Add the sweetened condensed milk and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the caramel thickens and turns a golden brown color.
- Pour the caramel over the cooled shortbread base and spread evenly with a spatula. Leave to cool completely at room temperature or place in the fridge to set.
Step 4: Add the Chocolate Topping
- Melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water (or microwave in short bursts, stirring between each burst).
- Stir in the vegetable oil (optional) to make the chocolate glossy and easier to slice later.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the set caramel layer and spread evenly. Let the chocolate set at room temperature or in the fridge.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
- Once the chocolate has set completely, use a sharp knife to slice the millionaire shortbread into squares or bars.
- Serve and enjoy!