Introduction
Welcome to the world of homemade bite-size Millionaire’s Shortbread! If you’re a fan of the classic combination of buttery shortbread, rich caramel, and smooth chocolate, then this recipe is a must-try. These bite-sized treats are perfect for indulging in a little taste of luxury. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests or satisfy your own sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. So let’s get started on this delicious journey!
Ingredients
For the shortbread base, you will need:
– 1 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
For the caramel layer, you will need:
– 1/2 cup of unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons of golden syrup
– 1 can (14 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk
For the chocolate topping, you will need:
– 7 ounces of dark or milk chocolate, chopped
– 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter
Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and sugar for the shortbread base. Add in the chilled and cubed butter.
3. Use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles fine breadcrumbs.
4. Press the shortbread mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use the back of a spoon to smooth it out.
5. Bake the shortbread in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until it turns golden brown around the edges.
6. While the shortbread is baking, prepare the caramel layer. In a saucepan, melt the butter, sugar, and golden syrup over medium heat.
7. Once the mixture is melted and smooth, add in the sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly for about 10-15 minutes, or until the caramel thickens and turns a golden color.
8. Pour the caramel over the baked shortbread base, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Allow it to cool completely.
9. In a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the chocolate and butter for the topping. Stir until smooth and well combined.
10. Pour the melted chocolate over the cooled caramel layer, spreading it out evenly. You can use a spatula to create a smooth finish.
11. Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is set.
12. Once the chocolate is firm, remove the Millionaire’s Shortbread from the pan and cut it into bite-sized squares.
Variations
There are endless possibilities for customizing your Millionaire’s Shortbread. Here are a few ideas:
– Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the caramel layer for a sweet and salty twist.
– Incorporate crushed nuts, such as almonds or pecans, into the shortbread base for added crunch.
– Drizzle melted white chocolate over the hardened dark or milk chocolate for an elegant look.
Tips
– Make sure to let the shortbread base cool completely before pouring the caramel layer on top. This will prevent the layers from mixing together.
– Use a sharp knife to cut the Millionaire’s Shortbread into squares. Dip the knife in hot water and wipe it clean between cuts to achieve clean edges.
– Store the bite-size treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Conclusion
Indulging in the heavenly combination of buttery shortbread, luscious caramel, and smooth chocolate is a treat for the senses. With this homemade recipe for bite-size Millionaire’s Shortbread, you can enjoy a little taste of luxury anytime you desire. Whether you’re serving them at a party or savoring them as a personal indulgence, these sweet treats are sure to impress. So go ahead and give this recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
FAQs
Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
A: It’s best to use unsalted butter for this recipe to control the saltiness of the final result. If you only have salted butter on hand, you can reduce the amount of additional salt in the recipe.
Q: Can I use a different type of chocolate for the topping?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate, such as white chocolate or a combination of dark and milk chocolate.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the shortbread base gluten-free.
Q: How long does it take for the caramel layer to thicken?
A: The caramel layer usually takes around 10-15 minutes to thicken. Keep an eye on it and stir constantly to prevent burning.
