Description
Millionaire Shortbread Bars feature a rich, buttery shortbread base topped with a gooey caramel layer enhanced by marshmallows, finished with a smooth chocolate ganache and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. This decadent treat is perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
Shortbread Base
- 1 cup (222g) salted butter
- 1/3 cup (76g) granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup (81g) brown sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups (304g) all-purpose flour
Caramel Layer
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (about 395g)
- 1/4 cup (56g) butter
- 1 cup (246g) brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (164g) corn syrup
- 6 large marshmallows
Chocolate Ganache
- 2 cups (400g) chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup (120mL) heavy whipping cream
Topping
- Flaky sea salt (to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 9×9 inch pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and set it aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the salted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat together until the mixture is light, creamy, and well combined.
- Add Egg Yolk and Vanilla: Scrape down the sides of the bowl, then add in the egg yolk and vanilla extract. Mix until incorporated.
- Mix in Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet mixture, mixing just until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the shortbread tender.
- Bake the Shortbread: Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake in the oven for 22 to 25 minutes, or until the edges just start turning golden brown.
- Prepare Caramel Sauce: While the shortbread bakes, combine sweetened condensed milk, butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat.
- Boil Caramel: Bring the mixture to a boil, then continue boiling until it reaches 225°F (about 107°C) on a candy thermometer, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Melt Marshmallows into Caramel: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the large marshmallows until completely melted and the caramel is smooth.
- Assemble Caramel Layer: Once the shortbread is baked, pour the warm caramel over it evenly. Let the bars cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for an additional 45 minutes to fully set.
- Heat Cream for Ganache: Warm the heavy whipping cream in a microwave-safe bowl for about 45 seconds or until it just reaches boiling.
- Make Chocolate Ganache: Pour the chocolate chips into the heated cream, ensuring all chips are submerged. Let sit for 5 minutes to soften.
- Combine and Spread Ganache: Stir the chocolate and cream until smooth and glossy. Spread the ganache evenly over the chilled caramel layer, then return the pan to the refrigerator until the ganache is set.
- Finish and Serve: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the set ganache for a finishing touch. Cut into bars and enjoy your Millionaire Shortbread Bars!
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the caramel reaches the correct temperature for perfect texture.
- Press the shortbread dough firmly into the pan to avoid cracking when slicing.
- For easier cutting, chill the bars thoroughly before slicing and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.
- Flaky sea salt is optional but enhances the balance of sweet and salty flavors.
- You can swap marshmallows for marshmallow fluff if preferred, adjusting quantity to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 27 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British