If you love a sweet treat with layers of buttery shortbread, rich caramel, and smooth chocolate, Millionaire Shortbread is the dessert for you! This indulgent classic has the perfect balance of crisp, chewy, and melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Three Layers of Perfection: Buttery shortbread, gooey caramel, and silky chocolate.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients, yet it tastes like a gourmet bakery treat!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for holidays, gifts, or just because.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Shortbread Base:
- Butter (1 cup, unsalted, softened) – Creates a rich, buttery base.
- Granulated Sugar (½ cup) – Adds slight sweetness.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 cups) – Gives the shortbread its signature texture.
- Salt (¼ tsp) – Enhances the flavor.
For the Caramel Layer:
- Sweetened Condensed Milk (1 can, 14 oz) – The key to smooth caramel.
- Butter (½ cup, unsalted) – Makes the caramel rich and creamy.
- Brown Sugar (½ cup, packed) – Adds deep caramel flavor.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Enhances the taste.
- Salt (¼ tsp) – Balances the sweetness.
For the Chocolate Topping:
- Semisweet Chocolate Chips (1 ½ cups) – Smooth and rich.
- Butter (1 tbsp, optional) – Adds extra shine to the chocolate.
Tools You’ll Need
- 9×9-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Saucepan
- Spatula
How to Make Millionaire Shortbread
Step 1: Make the Shortbread Base
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 20–22 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let it cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Layer
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and stir in brown sugar.
- Once dissolved, add sweetened condensed milk and bring to a gentle boil.
- Stir constantly for 5–7 minutes, until the caramel thickens and turns golden.
- Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and salt, then pour over the cooled shortbread.
- Let it set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Layer
- Melt the chocolate chips and butter in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
- Once smooth, pour over the caramel layer and spread evenly.
- Let the chocolate set at room temperature or refrigerate for faster setting.
Step 4: Slice & Serve
Once fully set, cut into squares and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Millionaire Shortbread
- Use High-Quality Chocolate: It makes a difference in flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Caramel: Stir constantly to prevent burning.
- Chill Before Cutting: For clean slices, refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing.
Storing & Freezing
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Freeze: Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dark chocolate instead of semisweet?
Yes! Dark chocolate adds a deeper, slightly less sweet flavor.
Why is my caramel grainy?
It likely crystallized. Stir constantly and don’t overheat it.
How do I cut perfect squares?
Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wipe clean between cuts.
Conclusion
Millionaire Shortbread is the ultimate layered dessert—crispy, gooey, and chocolatey in every bite. Whether for a party or an afternoon treat, this recipe is sure to impress!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Chilling Time: 1 hour
Cuisine: British
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 320 | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 18g | Sugar: 28g | Sodium: 100mg

Millionaire Shortbread
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Description
If you love a sweet treat with layers of buttery shortbread, rich caramel, and smooth chocolate, Millionaire Shortbread is the dessert for you! This indulgent classic has the perfect balance of crisp, chewy, and melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
Want more delicious recipes? Subscribe now for easy baking inspiration!
Ingredients
For the Shortbread Base:
- Butter (1 cup, unsalted, softened) – Creates a rich, buttery base.
- Granulated Sugar (½ cup) – Adds slight sweetness.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 cups) – Gives the shortbread its signature texture.
- Salt (¼ tsp) – Enhances the flavor.
For the Caramel Layer:
- Sweetened Condensed Milk (1 can, 14 oz) – The key to smooth caramel.
- Butter (½ cup, unsalted) – Makes the caramel rich and creamy.
- Brown Sugar (½ cup, packed) – Adds deep caramel flavor.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Enhances the taste.
- Salt (¼ tsp) – Balances the sweetness.
For the Chocolate Topping:
- Semisweet Chocolate Chips (1 ½ cups) – Smooth and rich.
- Butter (1 tbsp, optional) – Adds extra shine to the chocolate.
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Shortbread Base
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 20–22 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let it cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Layer
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and stir in brown sugar.
- Once dissolved, add sweetened condensed milk and bring to a gentle boil.
- Stir constantly for 5–7 minutes, until the caramel thickens and turns golden.
- Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and salt, then pour over the cooled shortbread.
- Let it set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Layer
- Melt the chocolate chips and butter in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
- Once smooth, pour over the caramel layer and spread evenly.
- Let the chocolate set at room temperature or refrigerate for faster setting.
Step 4: Slice & Serve
Once fully set, cut into squares and enjoy!
Notes
- Use High-Quality Chocolate: It makes a difference in flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Caramel: Stir constantly to prevent burning.
- Chill Before Cutting: For clean slices, refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Cuisine: British