You Don’t Need To Have A Million Dollars To Make These Chocolate Caramel Millionaire Bars!
Imagine biting into a bar that melts in your mouth, filled with layers of buttery shortbread, gooey caramel, and creamy chocolate. These Chocolate Caramel Millionaire Bars are the perfect indulgent treat for any occasion. Despite their luxurious taste, you don’t need a million dollars to make them—just a little time and a few simple ingredients!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These bars are a homemade twist on a classic favorite, reminiscent of Twix bars. The combination of buttery crust, sweet and salty caramel, and rich chocolate is utterly irresistible. Plus, you have the flexibility to use ready-made ingredients if you’re short on time, making them perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 9-inch square baking dish
- Aluminum foil
- Food processor
- Large saucepan
- Whisk
- Microwave or stovetop for heating cream
Ingredients
For Shortbread:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold, unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons ice water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Caramel Filling:
- 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
For Chocolate Topping:
- 1 (12 oz.) bag semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt, optional
Step-by-step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350º F and line a 9-inch square baking dish with aluminum foil, leaving a 2-inch overhang on all sides.
- In a food processor, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Pulse to mix, then add the cubed butter and blend until the mixture becomes coarse. Gradually add 2 tablespoons of cold water and pulse until the dough comes together.
- Press the dough into the prepared baking dish, forming an even layer. Pierce the crust with a fork and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool.
- In a large saucepan, combine the condensed milk, butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves. Bring the mixture to a boil, whisking continuously, until the caramel reaches 225º F or turns a deep amber color.
- Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt, then pour the caramel over the cooled shortbread. Set aside to cool completely.
- For the chocolate topping, heat the heavy cream until hot but not boiling, then pour it over the chocolate chips. Stir until smooth, add sea salt if desired, and pour over the cooled caramel layer.
- Refrigerate the dish until the chocolate is set. Cut into squares and enjoy them chilled or at room temperature.
Tips for Success
- Ensure your butter is cold when making the shortbread for the best texture.
- Stir the caramel constantly to prevent it from burning.
- Allow each layer to cool completely before adding the next to ensure clean layers.
Additional Tips and Variations
- For a quicker version, use store-bought shortbread cookies and caramel sauce.
- Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the chocolate layer for an extra touch of flavor.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
These bars are a treat worth indulging in, with each piece offering a delicious balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, these bars can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
How should I store the bars?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to a month.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your preferred type of chocolate.
Conclusion
These Chocolate Caramel Millionaire Bars are a luxurious treat that you can easily whip up at home. Their rich flavors and beautiful layers make them a standout dessert. Why not give them a try and see for yourself? We’d love to hear how they turned out for you, so feel free to share your experience!