Millionaires Shortbread Bars
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction
Ever panicked about what to bring to a bake sale? Or needed easy dessert recipes for large groups ? I have! Honestly, finding the perfect recipe that travels well and makes ahead desserts for a crowd can be a right pain.
Millionaire's Magic: My Go-To Crowd Pleasing Recipe
Forget fussy cakes! Millionaire Shortbread Bars are where it's at. We're talking a gorgeous shortbread base, a dreamy caramel filling , and a heavenly chocolate topping .
These bars are the perfect party dessert ideas make-ahead .
A Wee Bit of History and a Whole Lotta Flavor
This decadent treat has British roots and is a make-ahead bake sale treats staple. It's got that perfect sweet and salty balance.
It's easy ish to make (promise!) and the flavour gets even better over time. This recipe yields about 24 bars.
Why You'll Love These Millionaire Shortbread Bars
Let's be real, they are delicious! These bars are also relatively freezer friendly desserts for a crowd . They are perfect for bake sales, parties, or just a cheeky treat.
I love how simple it is and how it just disappears! I will admit, the hardest part is waiting for the caramel to set!
Now, onto the ingredients for these amazing millionaire shortbread bars !
Ingredients & Equipment: Millionaire Shortbread Edition!
So, you wanna whip up some lush millionaire shortbread bars ? Ace choice! Seriously, these are perfect make-ahead desserts for a crowd .
Let's get down to brass tacks and talk ingredients. I remember once trying to wing it with some dodgy butter, and honestly? The shortbread was a disaster .
Learn from my mistakes!
Main Ingredients: The Nitty Gritty
For that Classic Shortbread Base:
- 1 cup (226g) softened unsalted butter. Good quality stuff, mind! It really makes a difference.
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar.
- 2 ¼ cups (281g) all-purpose flour. Plain flour, not self raising!
- ¼ teaspoon salt.
The Caramel Filling: Oh My Goodness!
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter. Yep, more butter!
- 1 cup (200g) packed light brown sugar.
- 1 (14 ounce/397g) can sweetened condensed milk.
- ¼ cup (60ml) golden syrup. Essential for that proper caramel taste.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract.
- ¼ teaspoon salt.
Chocolate Topping: The Crowning Glory
- 12 ounces (340g) semi sweet chocolate chips. Get decent ones, it's worth it!
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) unsalted butter.
- Optional: Flaky sea salt for sprinkling. Seriously, don't skip this!
The quality of the butter really shines. When I first started making these, I skimped, and the shortbread was just…sad. Now, I always use a good brand.
Seasoning Notes: It's All About Balance
A tiny pinch of salt in both the shortbread and the caramel filling really brings out the sweetness. Don’t underestimate it! It’s what separates these easy dessert recipes for large groups from the mundane.
For the caramel, vanilla extract is a must. Honestly, don’t bother with imitation stuff. The real deal is miles better.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
- 9x13 inch baking pan .
- Parchment paper. Trust me, lining the pan makes life so much easier.
- Mixer (stand or hand mixer).
- Saucepan.
- Heatproof spatula or wooden spoon.
Don't fret if you don't have a stand mixer. A good old hand mixer works just fine. And if you don't have parchment paper, foil works in a pinch (grease it well!).
The key is that these desserts that travel well and don't require fancy equipment.
Millionaire shortbread bars are fantastic make-ahead bake sale treats and great party dessert ideas make-ahead , or even as freezer friendly desserts for a crowd . Enjoy!
Millionaire's Shortbread Bars: The Ultimate make-ahead Crowd Pleaser
Alright, let's get cracking. make-ahead desserts for a crowd , eh? Think school bake sales, family reunions, village fêtes.
.. We need something reliable, crowd pleasing, and, most importantly, something you can actually make-ahead so you're not flapping about like a kipper on the day.
I've got just the thing: Millionaire's Shortbread Bars. Honestly, these are a game changer. The perfect balance of sweet, salty, and downright naughty , they're a surefire winner.
Plus, they're seriously impressive.
Prep Like a Pro: Your Mise en Place Mission
First things first: mise en place . Get all your ingredients measured and ready to go. Soften the butter, measure out your sugar and flour, and find that tin of condensed milk lurking at the back of the cupboard.
Lining your baking pan with parchment paper that overhangs the edges is essential. This trick ensures easy removal of the bars after chilling! Seriously, don't skip this.
Want to be super organised? Make the shortbread base the day before. Wrap it tightly in cling film after it's cooled.
It will keep at room temperature. This is one of those easy dessert recipes for large groups that genuinely is easy.
It's also great for a make-ahead bake sale treats .
step-by-step to Shortbread Bliss
- Cream together 1 cup (226g) softened butter and ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add 2 ¼ cups (281g) all-purpose flour and ¼ teaspoon salt , mixing until just combined.
- Press the dough evenly into your prepared 9x13 inch pan. Prick it all over with a fork.
- Bake at 350° F ( 175° C) for 25- 30 minutes , until lightly golden brown. Let it cool completely .
- While the base is cooling, melt 1 cup (226g) butter , 1 cup (200g) brown sugar , 1 can (397g) condensed milk , ¼ cup (60ml) golden syrup , ½ teaspoon vanilla extract , and ¼ teaspoon salt in a saucepan.
- Cook the caramel filling over medium heat, stirring constantly , until it thickens and turns a rich amber colour.
- Pour the caramel over the cooled shortbread. Chill in the fridge until firm.
- Melt 12 ounces (340g) chocolate chips with 2 tablespoons (30ml) butter . Pour over the caramel. Chill until set.
Pro Tips for Millionaire Success
Don't overmix the shortbread dough! You'll get a tough base instead of a crumbly one. Avoid using a candy thermometer to achieve a critical temperature points .
Seriously! For a salted caramel kick, up the salt in the caramel. These are definitely desserts that travel well and are great party dessert ideas make-ahead .
Plus, they're freezer friendly desserts for a crowd . Boom.
So there you have it, the ultimate crowd pleaser that can handle that crowd. Seriously try them.
Recipe Notes for Millionaire's Shortbread Bars
Right then, let's talk notes! Honestly, these millionaire shortbread bars are pretty straightforward. But a few tips and tricks can take them from "good" to "Oh my gosh, where have these been all my life?".
And if you're thinking of them as make-ahead desserts for a bake sale or a party dessert ideas make-ahead , planning is your best mate.
Serving Up Style
Fancy pants time! When it comes to plating, think simple elegance. A dusting of cocoa powder? Classy. A few strategically placed fresh raspberries? Even better.
These bars already look amazing, so you don't need to go overboard.
For sides, keep it simple. Ice cream is always a winner, particularly vanilla. Tea is the perfect accompaniment; Earl Grey is my usual.
These desserts that travel well , and with a nice presentation, they will be a highlight in any party.
Storage Savvy
Alright, the beauty of these millionaire shortbread bars is how well they keep. The shortbread base is solid. Once cooled, they're great in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
That caramel filling needs to stay chilled!.
Thinking longer term? You can freeze them! Wrap them tightly in cling film, then pop them in a freezer bag.
They'll keep for up to 2 months. Let them thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. These freezer friendly desserts for a crowd are a life saver.
Tweak It 'Til You Make It
Fancy a twist? For a gluten-free version, swap the flour in the shortbread for a gluten-free blend. Easy peasy! For a salted caramel vibe, add a pinch more salt to that gooey caramel filling .
If you need easy dessert recipes for large groups , consider cutting these into smaller squares!
Seasonal swaps? In autumn, a dash of cinnamon in the shortbread is lush. If you don't want to use butter, consider use vegetable or olive oil.
Nutrition Nitty Gritty
Okay, let's be real; this isn't health food. We're talking butter, sugar, and chocolate. But, everything in moderation, eh? Each bar clocks in around 350 calories (ish!).
The buttery shortbread base provides slow release energy. Chocolate topping contains antioxidants. These make-ahead bake sale treats can at least make people happy! One small thing, I would like to highlight is: These make-ahead desserts for a crowd , when prepared and consumed, it is important to be mindful of the ingredients used and any possible allergies present in your guests.
So there you have it! Get baking. Don't worry if it doesn't look perfect the first time. These are incredibly delicious easy dessert recipes for large groups and I hope you like them.
After all, practice makes perfect, and even slightly wonky millionaire's shortbread still tastes amazing. Promise!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I really make Millionaire's Shortbread bars ahead of time? Will they still taste good?
Absolutely! Millionaire's Shortbread is the perfect bake ahead treat. In fact, the flavors actually improve as they sit, allowing the shortbread to soften slightly and the caramel to meld with the other layers. Just think of it as giving the flavors a good old natter and get to know each other!
What's the best way to store these make-ahead desserts for a crowd, so they don't go soggy?
The key is to keep them airtight! Store your Millionaire's Shortbread bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure they're well wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
When ready to serve, allow to defrost in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a quicker thaw.
My caramel is always a disaster! Any tips for getting it right?
Caramel can be a bit temperamental, like a toddler who hasn't had their nap! The most important thing is to stir it constantly over medium low heat to prevent burning. A heavy bottomed saucepan can also help distribute the heat more evenly.
If you have a candy thermometer, aim for around 245°F (118°C) for that perfect chewy consistency.
I'm catering for a school fair. Are these Millionaire's Shortbread bars suitable for kids?
Millionaire's Shortbread is generally a hit with kids due to its sweet and indulgent nature. However, keep in mind the high sugar content. Consider cutting the bars into smaller, bite sized pieces for younger children. Also, be aware of any potential allergies; these contain dairy and gluten.
Can I adapt this recipe for vegan or gluten-free guests?
Yes, you can definitely adapt these! For a vegan version, use vegan butter, condensed milk, and chocolate. For gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour in the shortbread base with a gluten-free blend. Be sure to use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour for the best results!
Golden syrup is typically vegan but double check the label just to be sure.
Help! My chocolate topping keeps cracking when I cut the bars. What am I doing wrong?
This usually happens when the chocolate is too cold or too thick compared to the caramel layer underneath. Make sure the caramel is properly chilled but not rock solid before adding the chocolate. Also, try adding a little extra butter (a teaspoon or so) to the melted chocolate to make it more pliable.
Finally, use a warm, sharp knife for cutting and wipe it clean between each cut.
Millionaires Shortbread Bars
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 350 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 3g |