If you’re craving a dessert that’s indulgent, buttery, and perfectly layered, look no further than Millionaire Shortbread. With a crisp shortbread base, luscious caramel filling, and rich chocolate topping, this treat is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Layers – Buttery shortbread, gooey caramel, and silky chocolate in every bite.
- Homemade Caramel – No store-bought shortcuts here!
- Great for Any Occasion – Perfect for holidays, bake sales, or afternoon treats.
- Easy to Store – Stays fresh for days and freezes well.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Shortbread Layer:
- Unsalted Butter (1 cup, softened) – For a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Granulated Sugar (½ cup) – Sweetens the base.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 cups) – The foundation of the shortbread.
- Salt (¼ tsp) – Enhances the buttery flavor.
For the Caramel Layer:
- Sweetened Condensed Milk (1 can, 14 oz) – The key to a creamy caramel.
- Unsalted Butter (½ cup, cut into pieces) – Helps create a silky texture.
- Brown Sugar (½ cup) – Adds depth and richness.
- Honey (2 tbsp) – Enhances the caramel’s smoothness.
- Salt (¼ tsp) – Balances the sweetness.
For the Chocolate Layer:
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (1½ cups) – For a smooth, rich topping.
- Heavy Cream (2 tbsp) – Keeps the chocolate glossy and soft.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp, optional) – Adds an extra layer of flavor.
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 oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, beat together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add flour and salt, mixing until a crumbly dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Caramel Layer
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and stir in brown sugar, honey, and salt.
- Once melted, add the sweetened condensed milk and bring to a gentle boil.
- Stir continuously for 5-7 minutes until the caramel thickens and turns golden.
- Pour the caramel over the cooled shortbread and spread evenly. Let set for 30 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Topping
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and heavy cream in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Stir in vanilla extract (if using).
- Pour the melted chocolate over the set caramel layer and spread evenly.
- Chill in the fridge for 1-2 hours until fully set.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
- Once set, lift the shortbread out of the pan using the parchment paper.
- Use a sharp knife to cut into squares or bars.
- Enjoy immediately or store for later!
Storage & Freezing Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Wrap slices in parchment paper and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Pro Tips for Perfect Millionaire Shortbread
- Use a Hot Knife – Warm your knife under hot water for clean, smooth cuts.
- Don’t Rush the Layers – Let each layer cool before adding the next.
- For a Softer Chocolate Top – Add a little more cream to the melted chocolate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes! If you prefer a sweeter topping, go for milk chocolate.
How do I prevent my caramel from burning?
Stir constantly and use medium heat to keep it smooth and creamy.
Can I add a sprinkle of sea salt on top?
Absolutely! A pinch of flaky sea salt enhances the flavors beautifully.
Conclusion
This Millionaire Shortbread is the ultimate layered treat—buttery, gooey, and chocolatey all in one bite. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, this recipe is a guaranteed winner.
Try it out, and let me know how it turns out!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Chilling Time: 1-2 hours
Cuisine: British
Nutritional Information (Per Bar):
Calories: 320 | Carbs: 38g | Fat: 18g | Sugar: 25g | Protein: 3g | Sodium: 120mg

Millionaire Shortbread
- Total Time: 0 hours
Description
If you’re craving a dessert that’s indulgent, buttery, and perfectly layered, look no further than Millionaire Shortbread. With a crisp shortbread base, luscious caramel filling, and rich chocolate topping, this treat is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
For the Shortbread Layer:
- Unsalted Butter (1 cup, softened) – For a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Granulated Sugar (½ cup) – Sweetens the base.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 cups) – The foundation of the shortbread.
- Salt (¼ tsp) – Enhances the buttery flavor.
For the Caramel Layer:
- Sweetened Condensed Milk (1 can, 14 oz) – The key to a creamy caramel.
- Unsalted Butter (½ cup, cut into pieces) – Helps create a silky texture.
- Brown Sugar (½ cup) – Adds depth and richness.
- Honey (2 tbsp) – Enhances the caramel’s smoothness.
- Salt (¼ tsp) – Balances the sweetness.
For the Chocolate Layer:
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (1½ cups) – For a smooth, rich topping.
- Heavy Cream (2 tbsp) – Keeps the chocolate glossy and soft.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp, optional) – Adds an extra layer of flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Shortbread Base
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, beat together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add flour and salt, mixing until a crumbly dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Caramel Layer
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and stir in brown sugar, honey, and salt.
- Once melted, add the sweetened condensed milk and bring to a gentle boil.
- Stir continuously for 5-7 minutes until the caramel thickens and turns golden.
- Pour the caramel over the cooled shortbread and spread evenly. Let set for 30 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Topping
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and heavy cream in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Stir in vanilla extract (if using).
- Pour the melted chocolate over the set caramel layer and spread evenly.
- Chill in the fridge for 1-2 hours until fully set.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
- Once set, lift the shortbread out of the pan using the parchment paper.
- Use a sharp knife to cut into squares or bars.
- Enjoy immediately or store for later!
Notes
- Use a Hot Knife – Warm your knife under hot water for clean, smooth cuts.
- Don’t Rush the Layers – Let each layer cool before adding the next.
- For a Softer Chocolate Top – Add a little more cream to the melted chocolate.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chilling Time: 1-2 hours
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Cuisine: British