Introduction
Welcome to the world of delicious homemade bite-size Millionaire’s Shortbread! This classic sweet treat is a heavenly combination of buttery shortbread, rich caramel, and smooth chocolate. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is sure to impress your friends and family. Get ready to indulge in bite-sized squares of pure bliss!
Ingredients
To make these irresistible homemade Millionaire’s Shortbread bites, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 can sweetened condensed milk
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 8 ounces dark or semisweet chocolate, chopped
– Sea salt, for sprinkling (optional)
Steps
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making these delectable bite-size Millionaire’s Shortbread:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch (20x20cm) baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix until the dough comes together.
3. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
4. In a saucepan, melt the 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, honey, and vanilla extract. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens and turns a caramel-like color.
5. Pour the caramel mixture over the cooled shortbread crust, spreading it evenly. Allow it to cool and set for about 30 minutes.
6. In a heatproof bowl, melt the chopped dark or semisweet chocolate using a double boiler or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently.
7. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer, smoothing it out with a spatula. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the chocolate for a delightful contrast.
8. Place the baking dish in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is firm and set.
9. Once fully chilled, remove the Millionaire’s Shortbread from the baking dish and cut it into bite-sized squares. Enjoy!
Variations
While this recipe is already a crowd-pleaser, you can also experiment with some delicious variations:
– Peanut Butter Cup: Add a layer of creamy peanut butter between the shortbread and caramel for a delightful twist.
– Salted Caramel: Sprinkle a generous amount of sea salt over the caramel layer to enhance the sweet and salty contrast.
– White Chocolate: Replace the dark or semisweet chocolate with creamy white chocolate for an elegant and indulgent version.
Tips
Here are a few tips to ensure your homemade Millionaire’s Shortbread turns out perfectly:
– Use room temperature butter for both the shortbread crust and the caramel layer. This helps in achieving a smooth and even texture.
– Be patient when making the caramel layer. It takes time for the mixture to thicken and develop a rich caramel flavor.
– Allow the shortbread crust to cool completely before pouring the caramel layer. This prevents the layers from mixing and ensures a clean cut.
– For a clean and neat presentation, use a sharp knife to cut the Millionaire’s Shortbread into bite-sized squares. Wipe the knife clean after each cut.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully made these irresistible homemade bite-size Millionaire’s Shortbread. The buttery shortbread, gooey caramel, and luscious chocolate come together to create a truly indulgent treat. You can serve these delicious bites at parties, potlucks, or even enjoy them as a special treat for yourself. Get ready to savor the rich flavors and enjoy every bite!
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
While you can use salted butter, it’s best to use unsalted butter to have better control over the overall saltiness of the recipe.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark or semisweet chocolate?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste. However, dark or semisweet chocolate adds a rich and slightly bitter flavor that complements the sweetness of the caramel.
How long can I store Millionaire’s Shortbread?
Store the Millionaire’s Shortbread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Make sure to separate the layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Can I freeze Millionaire’s Shortbread?
Yes, you can freeze Millionaire’s Shortbread for up to 3 months. Place the squares in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between the layers for easy separation.
Can I use a different type of flour?
All-purpose flour works best for this recipe, but you can experiment with other flours like whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blends for dietary restrictions. Keep in mind that the texture and taste may vary.
