If you’re on the hunt for a truly indulgent treat that combines buttery, crunchy base, luscious caramel, and rich chocolate, this Millionaire Shortbread Recipe is an absolute must-try. This classic dessert is elevated with the subtle tropical twist of condensed coconut milk and coconut oil, creating a silky caramel layer that perfectly contrasts with the crisp shortbread and velvety dark chocolate topping. Each bite offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors that will have you reaching for just one more square, making this recipe a standout favorite to share with friends or keep all to yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Millionaire Shortbread Recipe relies on a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that come together beautifully to create each element of the dessert. From the rich, buttery shortbread base to the creamy caramel and glossy chocolate topping, each component adds a unique touch that makes this dish unforgettable.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup): Softened butter provides the rich, flaky texture that is the foundation of the shortbread base.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Adds sweetness and helps create a crisp crust when baked.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/4 cups): The key ingredient for structure, giving the shortbread its tender crumb.
- Condensed coconut milk (1 can, 14 oz): A decadent, creamy base for the caramel layer with a subtle coconut flavor that adds depth.
- Coconut oil (2 tbsp): Helps to melt the chocolate smoothly and adds a hint of tropical richness.
- Dark chocolate chips (1 cup): For that luscious, bittersweet chocolate topping that perfectly balances the sweet caramel.
How to Make Millionaire Shortbread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. This step is crucial for an easy release of the shortbread once baked, ensuring clean, perfect squares every time.
Step 2: Make the Shortbread Base
In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy and light. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and mix until it forms a crumbly dough. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your lined baking dish, creating the shortbread foundation for this delicious dessert.
Step 3: Bake the Base
Bake the shortbread for 20 to 25 minutes or until it turns a gorgeous golden brown color. Once baked, allow it to cool completely—this is important as it sets the stage for adding the luscious caramel layer on top.
Step 4: Cook the Caramel Layer
Using a saucepan over medium heat, combine the condensed coconut milk with a pinch of salt. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. This creamy caramel will add the perfect balance of chewiness and sweetness to your Millionaire Shortbread.
Step 5: Add the Caramel over the Base
Pour the thickened caramel evenly over the cooled shortbread base, smoothing the top. This sticky caramel layer introduces that signature richness that makes Millionaire Shortbread so irresistible.
Step 6: Melt and Pour the Chocolate Topping
Melt the dark chocolate chips together with coconut oil in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in short bursts in the microwave. Stir until silky smooth, then carefully pour the chocolate over the caramel layer, spreading it evenly.
Step 7: Set and Slice
Place the entire tray in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least two hours to allow the chocolate to set firmly. Once chilled, remove from the fridge and cut into approximately 16 squares, ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Millionaire Shortbread Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, sprinkle some flaky sea salt atop the chocolate before chilling. Toasted coconut flakes also add a lovely crunch and enhance the tropical notes in the caramel. These simple garnishes elevate the texture and flavor, creating a stunning presentation.
Side Dishes
Serve your Millionaire Shortbread squares alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert experience. A cup of strong coffee or a creamy chai latte pairs beautifully, cutting through the sweetness and balancing each bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the squares in a decorative glass jar as a gift or arrange them artfully on a dessert platter with fresh berries and mint leaves. For parties, you can even create mini Millionaire Shortbread bites on sticks for a fun and mess-free treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Millionaire Shortbread in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the chocolate and caramel layers firm and fresh. It will stay delicious for up to 5 days, making it perfect for enjoying throughout the week or sharing with loved ones.
Freezing
If you want to keep this treat longer, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen Millionaire Shortbread pieces will maintain their texture and flavor for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Allow frozen squares to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. If you prefer warm bites, briefly microwave a piece for 10 to 15 seconds to soften the caramel without melting the chocolate completely, giving you a delightful gooey texture.
FAQs
Can I use regular condensed milk instead of condensed coconut milk?
Absolutely, you can substitute regular condensed milk for a classic caramel flavor, though the coconut milk adds a unique tropical richness that pairs perfectly with the chocolate and shortbread.
What type of chocolate works best for this recipe?
Dark chocolate is preferred because its slight bitterness balances the sweetness of the caramel and shortbread, but milk chocolate can be used if you want a sweeter, creamier topping.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup, and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
How thick should the caramel layer be?
The caramel should be about 1/4 inch thick, enough to give a rich, chewy texture without overwhelming the layers around it. Pour steadily and smooth it gently for the best result.
Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?
Definitely! Just multiply all the ingredients by two and use a larger baking dish, adjusting the baking time for the shortbread base accordingly to ensure it cooks evenly.
Final Thoughts
This Millionaire Shortbread Recipe is such a labor of love that every delicious bite is worth it. From its buttery foundation to the silky coconut caramel and rich chocolate finish, it brings happiness to any occasion. I promise once you make this, it will quickly become your go-to indulgence and a loved classic in your dessert repertoire. Give it a try and get ready to wow yourself and everyone lucky enough to share it!
Print
Millionaire Shortbread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Millionaire Shortbread recipe features a buttery shortbread base topped with a rich caramel layer made from condensed coconut milk, and finished with a smooth dark chocolate topping. It offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors, perfect for a decadent dessert treat.
Ingredients
Shortbread Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
Caramel Layer
- 1 can (14 oz) condensed coconut milk
- Pinch of salt
Chocolate Topping
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the shortbread.
- Make Shortbread Base: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and mix until the dough becomes crumbly. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Bake Shortbread: Bake the shortbread base for 20-25 minutes or until it turns golden brown. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely before adding additional layers.
- Prepare Caramel Layer: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the condensed coconut milk and a pinch of salt. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens, approximately 5-7 minutes. Pour this warm caramel evenly over the cooled shortbread base.
- Add Chocolate Topping: Melt the dark chocolate chips together with coconut oil until smooth, using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently. Pour the melted chocolate gently over the caramel layer to create a smooth top layer.
- Set and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled shortbread for at least two hours or until the chocolate is fully set. Once firm, cut into approximately 16 squares and serve.
Notes
- Allow the shortbread base to cool completely before adding the caramel layer to prevent it from melting into the base.
- Use parchment paper lining for easy removal and cleaner edges when cutting.
- For a firmer caramel, you can cook the coconut milk mixture slightly longer, but be careful not to burn it.
- The chocolate topping can be customized with milk or white chocolate if preferred.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
