British · serves 2

Millionaires Shortbread

Shortbread, condensed milk caramel, chocolate. Three layers and no shortcuts.

60 min A proper cook Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • Base: 150g butter, 75g caster sugar, 250g plain flour
  • Caramel: 100g butter, 50g sugar, 400g condensed milk
  • Topping: 150g dark chocolate, 2 tbsp milk
  • 1 tsp sea salt (optional)

Method

  1. Cream butter and sugar, work in the flour by hand to a smooth dough.
  2. Press evenly into a lined tin and prick all over with a fork.
  3. 180°C for 20 minutes. Cool completely.
  4. Caramel: melt butter, sugar and condensed milk on low until the sugar dissolves, then boil and simmer 6-8 minutes, stirring the whole time, until deep caramel and very thick. Stop stirring and it burns on the base.
  5. Pour over the cooled shortbread. Cool 30 minutes.
  6. Melt the chocolate with the milk and pour over.
  7. Set completely before cutting, and use a hot knife. Flaky salt on the chocolate makes it salted caramel.

Questions people ask about Millionaires Shortbread

How long does Millionaires Shortbread take?

About 60 minutes from starting to sitting down, and it is a proper cook. A good part of that is unattended, so you can get on with something else once it is going.

What can I use instead of maida in Millionaires Shortbread?

Use plain atta for a denser, nuttier result, or a 50/50 mix if you want to keep some lift.

Can I make Millionaires Shortbread ahead of time?

You can prepare it a few hours ahead and reheat gently. It keeps two days in the fridge, though it is best on the day.

Is Millionaires Shortbread vegetarian?

Yes, it is vegetarian. It is not vegan as written because it contains dairy; swap the dairy for a plant alternative and the rest of the method is unchanged.

Do I need an oven for Millionaires Shortbread?

Yes, this one needs an oven. If you do not have one, look at the no-oven filter on the baking page: eleven of the bakes here are built for a cooker, a pan or the fridge.

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