Decadent Layered Caramel Shortbread Bars

These Decadent Layered Caramel Shortbread Bars are a rich, buttery treat featuring three irresistible layers: a crisp shortbread base, a smooth and creamy caramel filling, and a luscious chocolate topping. Also known as Millionaire’s Shortbread, these bars are the perfect balance of crunchy, gooey, and chocolatey goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Three indulgent layers – Buttery shortbread, gooey caramel, and a rich chocolate topping.
• Perfect texture – Crisp, creamy, and melt-in-your-mouth smooth.
• Better than store-bought – Homemade caramel makes these extra special.
• Great for any occasion – Ideal for parties, holidays, or as an everyday treat.
• Make-ahead friendly – Stays fresh for days and freezes well!

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Shortbread Layer:

• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Granulated sugar
• All-purpose flour
• Salt

For the Caramel Layer:

• Sweetened condensed milk
• Butter
• Brown sugar
• Heavy cream
• Vanilla extract
• Salt

For the Chocolate Layer:

• Dark or milk chocolate (chopped)
• Butter or coconut oil (for a glossy finish)

Directions

Step 1: Make the Shortbread Base

1. Preheat the oven – Set to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix the shortbread dough – Cream together butter and sugar, then mix in flour and salt until crumbly.
3. Press into pan – Spread the dough evenly and press firmly into the bottom of the pan.
4. Bake – Bake for 15-18 minutes, until lightly golden. Let cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Caramel Layer

5. Melt butter and sugar – In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and brown sugar. Stir until smooth.
6. Add condensed milk and cream – Stir in sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt.
7. Cook until thickened – Bring to a low boil, stirring constantly, for 8-10 minutes, until caramel darkens slightly and thickens.
8. Pour over shortbread – Spread the caramel evenly over the cooled shortbread layer. Let set at room temperature for 30 minutes or refrigerate until firm.

Step 3: Make the Chocolate Topping

9. Melt the chocolate – In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate and butter in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
10. Spread over caramel – Pour the melted chocolate over the set caramel layer and spread evenly.
11. Chill – Refrigerate for 1-2 hours until firm.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

12. Cut into bars – Let the bars sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before slicing to prevent cracking. Use a sharp knife and wipe clean between cuts.
13. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 16 bars
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Cooling Time: 1-2 hours
• Total Time: About 2.5 hours

Variations

• Salted Caramel Version: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the caramel before adding chocolate.
• Peanut Butter Twist: Swirl in peanut butter with the caramel for a nutty flavor.
• Espresso Infused: Add 1 teaspoon of espresso powder to the caramel for a coffee kick.
• Nutty Crunch: Stir chopped pecans or almonds into the shortbread dough.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk for the caramel and dairy-free chocolate.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Keeps fresh in the fridge for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Freeze individual bars for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Reheating: Let bars sit at room temperature for 10 minutes for best texture.

FAQs

How do I prevent my caramel from burning?

Stir constantly over medium heat and use a heavy-bottomed pan for even heating.

Can I use store-bought caramel?

Yes, but homemade caramel gives the best flavor and texture.

Why did my chocolate crack when cutting?

Let the bars sit at room temperature before slicing, and use a warm knife for cleaner cuts.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes! Use any chocolate you prefer, but dark chocolate balances the sweetness best.

How do I make these bars extra thick?

Double the caramel layer for a gooier, richer treat.

Can I use a different type of sugar in the shortbread?

Yes! Brown sugar adds a slightly softer texture, while granulated sugar keeps it crisp.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

How do I know when the caramel is ready?

It should darken slightly and thicken enough to coat the back of a spoon.

What’s the best way to cut these into even squares?

Use a sharp, warm knife (run it under hot water and dry it) for clean slices.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars taste even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Conclusion

These Decadent Layered Caramel Shortbread Bars are a must-try for any dessert lover. With their crisp shortbread base, rich caramel filling, and smooth chocolate topping, they’re the perfect indulgence for any occasion. Try them today and enjoy a homemade version of this classic treat!

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