Why You’ll Love These Millionaire’s Shortbread Bites
- Great for Any Occasion: Ideal for holidays, parties, or even as a homemade gift.
- Three Irresistible Layers: Buttery, sweet, and chocolaty all in one bite.
- Perfectly Sized: Bite-sized portions make them easy to serve and enjoy.
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls: For combining ingredients.
- 8×8-inch baking pan: For creating the layers.
- Saucepan: To prepare the caramel.
Millionaire’s Shortbread Bites
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Description
There’s nothing quite as indulgent as Millionaire’s Shortbread Bites! These delightful little treats layer buttery shortbread, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate in bite-sized perfection. Whether for a party, a gift, or a snack to satisfy your sweet tooth, these bites are guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
For the Shortbread Layer
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Caramel Layer
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Layer
- 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Base
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the flour and salt, mixing until a crumbly dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Prick the surface with a fork to prevent bubbling.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Layer
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, butter, and corn syrup.
- Stir constantly until the mixture thickens and turns a golden caramel color, about 8-10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Pour the caramel evenly over the cooled shortbread base. Let set at room temperature or chill in the fridge for 1 hour.
Step 3: Add the Chocolate Layer
- Melt the chocolate chips with vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature or in the fridge until firm.
Step 4: Cut into Bites
- Using a sharp knife, cut the layered shortbread into bite-sized squares or rectangles. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for neat edges.
Notes
- Chill Between Layers: Ensure each layer sets before adding the next for clean cuts and perfect layers.
- Use Quality Chocolate: High-quality chocolate makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Store Properly: Keep in an airtight container to maintain freshness and texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chilling Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Storage Instructions
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigerate: For longer storage, keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Freeze: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use dark chocolate instead of semisweet?
A: Absolutely! Dark chocolate adds a deeper, less sweet flavor.
Q2: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes, these are perfect for making ahead. They store well and taste even better the next day.
Q3: How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking when cutting?
A: Use a sharp, warm knife (dip it in hot water and dry it off) to slice through the chocolate layer cleanly.
Conclusion: Pure Indulgence in Every Bite!
These Millionaire’s Shortbread Bites are a luxurious treat that’s as fun to make as they are to eat. The combination of crumbly shortbread, rich caramel, and smooth chocolate is simply irresistible. Make a batch today, and watch them disappear!
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours
Nutritional Information (per bite)
Calories: 150
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 1g
Enjoy every decadent bite, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!
