Decadent Layered Caramel Shortbread Bars

Decadent Layered Caramel Shortbread Bars, also known as Millionaire’s Shortbread, are a luxurious treat with three irresistible layers. These bars feature a buttery shortbread base, a rich and creamy caramel filling, and a smooth chocolate topping. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or when you need a truly indulgent dessert, these bars are as beautiful as they are delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Three layers of deliciousness: Buttery shortbread, rich caramel, and chocolate.
• Perfect for sharing: Great for parties, bake sales, or gifting.
• Easy to make: Simple steps and no fancy equipment needed.
• Decadent and satisfying: Each bite is a blend of flavors and textures.
• Make-ahead friendly: These bars store well and taste great chilled.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Shortbread Layer

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Caramel Layer

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
• ¼ cup light corn syrup (or golden syrup)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Chocolate Layer

• 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or milk chocolate if preferred)
• 2 tablespoons butter or heavy cream (for a softer chocolate layer)

Directions

Prepare the Shortbread Base

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. Make the Shortbread: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until creamy. Mix in the flour and salt until the dough comes together.
3. Press and Bake: Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let it cool completely.

Make the Caramel Layer

4. Cook the Caramel: In a saucepan, combine butter, brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and turns a caramel color (about 8-10 minutes).
5. Add Caramel to Shortbread: Pour the caramel over the cooled shortbread layer, spreading evenly. Let it set at room temperature or chill in the refrigerator until firm.

Make the Chocolate Layer

6. Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and butter (or heavy cream) in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
7. Top the Bars: Pour the melted chocolate over the set caramel layer and smooth it out with a spatula. Let it set at room temperature or in the fridge until firm.

Slice and Serve

8. Cut into Bars: Once fully set, lift the bars out of the dish using the parchment paper. Cut into squares using a sharp knife. For clean slices, warm the knife under hot water and wipe dry between cuts.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 24 bars
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Additional Time: 1-2 hours (for chilling and setting)
• Total Time: 2-3 hours

Variations

• Salted Caramel: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the caramel layer before adding the chocolate.
• Peanut Butter Twist: Mix a few tablespoons of creamy peanut butter into the caramel layer.
• Nutty Addition: Add chopped pecans or almonds between the caramel and chocolate layers.
• Espresso Chocolate: Stir a teaspoon of espresso powder into the melted chocolate for a mocha flavor.
• Holiday Version: Decorate the chocolate layer with festive sprinkles or drizzle with white chocolate.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Freezing: Freeze the bars (cut or uncut) wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars are perfect for making ahead and can be stored in the fridge or freezer until needed.

What type of chocolate should I use?

Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips work best, but you can also use dark chocolate for a richer flavor.

How do I prevent the chocolate layer from cracking when cutting?

Let the chocolate set at room temperature for a softer finish, or use a warm knife to make cleaner cuts.

Can I use store-bought caramel instead of making my own?

Yes, a thick caramel sauce or dulce de leche can be used as a shortcut, but homemade caramel gives the best flavor and texture.

What is the best way to melt chocolate?

The microwave method is quick and easy, but you can also melt chocolate using a double boiler on the stovetop.

How do I keep the caramel layer from being too sticky?

Cook the caramel until it thickens well and let it set fully before adding the chocolate layer.

Can I add flavorings to the caramel?

Yes, a splash of vanilla extract, bourbon, or even a pinch of cinnamon can add depth to the caramel flavor.

Are these bars gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can use a gluten-free flour blend for the shortbread layer to make them gluten-free.

How do I get the layers even?

Use an offset spatula to spread each layer evenly and allow sufficient cooling and setting time between layers.

Can I make these bars dairy-free?

Use dairy-free butter, sweetened condensed coconut milk, and dairy-free chocolate chips for a dairy-free version.

Conclusion

Decadent Layered Caramel Shortbread Bars are a truly indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their rich and buttery shortbread base, smooth caramel center, and luxurious chocolate topping, these bars deliver an incredible combination of flavors and textures. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing for a bake sale, or simply craving something sweet, this recipe is sure to impress. Make a batch of these delicious bars and enjoy every rich, gooey bite!

Print