🍪 A Brief History of Shortbread 🍪
Shortbread is a beloved treat that originated in Scotland. Its name comes from the texture of the cookie, which is crumbly and melts in your mouth.
The Scottish bakers, known for their no-nonsense attitude, invented shortbread as a way to avoid paying taxes on cookies. They cleverly named it “bread” to trick the tax collectors, even though it is clearly a cookie. And thus, shortbread was born!
🍫 What is Millionaires Shortbread? 🍫
Millionaires shortbread takes the classic shortbread to a whole new level of decadence. It consists of three layers: a crumbly, buttery shortbread base, a rich and creamy caramel layer, and a smooth layer of chocolate on top.
This irresistible combination of flavors and textures makes it the ultimate indulgence.
🥧 The Recipe 🥧
To make this delicious treat, you will need the following ingredients:
Shortbread Base:
- 1 cup (226 grams) of room temperature unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup (100 grams) of granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 2 cups (240 grams) of all-purpose flour
Caramel Layer:
- 1/2 cup (113 grams) of butter
- 1 cup (210 grams) of light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1 can (14 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Chocolate Layer:
- 1 1/2 cups (250 grams) of semi-sweet chocolate
- 1/3 cup (80 milliliters) of heavy cream
👨🍳 Let’s Get Started! 👨🍳
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg yolk, salt, and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add the flour, mixing after each addition, until the dough comes together.
5. Transfer the dough to the prepared baking pan and press it down evenly to form the shortbread base.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 22 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool.
🍮 Making the Caramel Layer 🍮
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the brown sugar, salt, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir until well combined.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it reaches a temperature of 225°F (107°C). This should take about 10 minutes.
- Remove the caramel from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the caramel over the cooled shortbread base, spreading it evenly.
- Place the pan in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes, or until the caramel is firm.
🍫 Adding the Chocolate Layer 🍫
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate and heavy cream.
- Microwave the mixture in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring after each burst, until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
- Pour the chocolate mixture over the chilled caramel layer, spreading it evenly.
- Use a spatula or knife to create decorative waves on the surface of the chocolate.
- Optional: Sprinkle a little flaked salt on top for a touch of salted caramel flavor.
- Return the pan to the refrigerator and let it chill until the chocolate is fully set.
🍰 Time to Indulge! 🍰
1. Once the chocolate is set, remove the pan from the refrigerator.
2. Carefully lift the shortbread out of the pan using the parchment paper as handles.
3. Cut the shortbread into small or large pieces, depending on your preference.
4. Serve and enjoy!
🎉 In Conclusion 🎉
Millionaires shortbread is truly a treat worth savoring. With its layers of buttery shortbread, luscious caramel, and smooth chocolate, it’s a dessert that is sure to impress.
Whether you enjoy it as a special treat for yourself or share it with friends and family, this decadent delight will always be a hit. So go ahead, give this recipe a try and indulge in the irresistible goodness of Mary Berry Millionaires Shortbread!
How long will millionaire shortbread last?
Millionaire shortbread can typically last for up to 5-7 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The layers of caramel and chocolate help to preserve the shortbread base, keeping it fresh for longer. However, it’s best enjoyed within the first few days for the best taste and texture.
Can I make Mary Berry’s caramel shortbread with gluten-free flour?
Yes, you can make Mary Berry’s caramel shortbread with gluten-free flour. Simply substitute the all-purpose flour in the shortbread base with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Make sure to check the ingredients in your gluten-free flour blend to ensure it includes xanthan gum or another binding agent, as this will help the shortbread hold together properly. The rest of the recipe remains the same.
How Do I Reheat Mary Berry Caramel Shortbread Leftovers?
Alternatively, you can microwave individual pieces of caramel shortbread for about 20-30 seconds, or until warmed through. Adjust the heating time as needed based on your microwave’s power.
How can I prevent the chocolate layer from cracking when cutting millionaire shortbread?
To prevent the chocolate layer from cracking when cutting millionaire shortbread, score the chocolate before it fully sets, use a sharp knife, and allow the shortbread to come to room temperature before cutting.
How do I make the caramel layer more chewy?
To make the caramel layer more chewy, cook it to a lower temperature and for a shorter time, or adjust the ratio of ingredients to include more butter or sweetened condensed milk.
What Do I Serve and Enjoy Mary Berry Caramel Shortbread With?
Serve Mary Berry’s caramel shortbread with coffee or tea, ice cream, fresh fruit, whipped cream, caramel sauce, or nuts for a delicious treat.
Is there an alternative name for millionaire shortbread?
Yes, millionaire shortbread is also known as caramel shortbread or caramel slice.
What is the best way to achieve a perfect shortbread base for millionaire shortbread?
To achieve a perfect shortbread base for millionaire shortbread, ensure the butter is at room temperature, mix it well with the sugar, and press the dough evenly into the baking pan before baking until the edges are golden brown.
