Millionaire Shortbread

The holiday season always stirs up my craving for something rich and irresistible, and that’s when Millionaire Shortbread became my kitchen MVP. I first made these bars a couple of Christmases ago, desperate for a treat that looked fancy but didn’t demand a day of work. With just 30 minutes of prep, I layered buttery shortbread, gooey caramel, and smooth chocolate into a pan—and the result? Pure decadence that had my family begging for seconds. The flaky sea salt on top was the magic touch—suddenly, I was the dessert hero. In 2025, we’re all about easy layered desserts that feel like a million bucks, and Millionaire Shortbread fits the bill. Let’s dive into this sweet story—I’ll walk you through every step to make your bars a holiday hit, no matter the occasion.

Must-Have Kitchen Tools

Before we get started, let’s grab the essentials. You don’t need a baker’s fortune to whip up Millionaire Shortbread, but a few tools make it seamless. A 13×9-inch baking pan is your canvas—this nonstick one releases bars like a dream, grab it here. I’ve used it for everything from brownies to these beauties, and it’s a gem. A small saucepan melts the caramel smooth—this sturdy model is my go-to. And a microwave-safe bowl handles the chocolate—this set is perfect for quick melting. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to you. With these in your kitchen, you’re set to layer up some decadent holiday bars.

Understanding the Ingredients

The allure of Millionaire Shortbread lies in its ingredients—each layer builds a symphony of flavor and texture. For the shortbread, 1 cup of softened butter (2 sticks) is the heart—its richness creates that melt-in-your-mouth base essential for easy layered desserts. Granulated sugar (1 cup) sweetens it just right, while vanilla extract (1 tsp.) adds a warm note. All-purpose flour (2 ¼ cups) and kosher salt (½ tsp.) form a tender, crumbly crust—simple yet perfect. The caramel layer comes from two 11-ounce packages of caramel squares and ½ cup of heavy cream—melted together, they’re sticky, golden bliss. The chocolate layer—2 cups of semisweet chocolate chips—brings a glossy finish, and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt elevates it all, balancing the sweetness with a savory pop. These ingredients turn basic pantry staples into decadent holiday bars that taste like luxury.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for Millionaire Shortbread (makes 2 dozen):
Shortbread Layer:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp. kosher salt

Caramel Layer:

• 2 (11-oz.) packages caramel squares
• ½ cup heavy cream

Chocolate Layer:

• 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
• Flaky sea salt, for garnish

These layers stack into decadent holiday bars with minimal effort—pure indulgence awaits.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s layer up this treat—here’s every detail to make it perfect.

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 300°F. Line a 13×9-inch pan with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray—parchment makes lifting easy, and spray ensures no sticking for your Millionaire Shortbread.

Step 2: Make the Shortbread
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar with a mixer until light and fluffy—about 2 minutes. Add the flour, salt, and vanilla, mixing until it forms a bread crumb texture—don’t overmix, just get it crumbly. Press this into the prepared pan, using your hands to even it out, then prick all over with a fork to let steam escape.

Step 3: Bake the Base
Bake for 30 minutes until lightly golden—watch for that pale gold edge. Let it cool completely in the pan—cooling is key for the layers to set right on your Millionaire Shortbread.

Step 4: Melt the Caramel
In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the caramel squares and heavy cream. Stir constantly for about 10 minutes until melted and smooth—patience here makes it velvety. Pour over the cooled shortbread crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Step 5: Add the Chocolate
Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second bursts, stirring between, until silky. Pour over the caramel layer, tilting the pan to spread it smoothly—watch it blanket that golden caramel.

Step 6: Chill and Finish
Refrigerate for 20 minutes until firm—don’t rush this, it sets the layers. Slice into bars with a sharp knife, then sprinkle with flaky sea salt—your Millionaire Shortbread is now a salty-sweet treasure.

Tips for the Best Millionaire Shortbread

Here’s how to make them extra special, from my baking adventures:

• Caramel Trick: Add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel—amps up the flavor in easy layered desserts.
• Quick Chill: Freeze for 10 minutes if you’re in a hurry—sets faster than the fridge.
• Chocolate Swap: Try milk or dark chips—mix it up for decadent holiday bars.
• Cutting Ease: Dip your knife in hot water—clean slices every time.

That cutting tip saved me at a party—perfect bars made all the difference.

Nutritional Info

Per bar (based on 24):

• Calories: 329
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 19g
• Carbs: 38g
• Sugar: 27g
• Sodium: 120mg (plus salt garnish)

They’re a rich treat—perfect for decadent holiday bars that feel worth it.

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FAQs

Real answers from my kitchen:

Can I make ahead?
Yes—store in the fridge for a week or freeze for a month; thaw before serving.

No caramel squares?
Use 1 ½ cups homemade caramel—just cook sugar, cream, and butter to 240°F.

Why’s my shortbread crumbly?
Don’t overbake—30 minutes max keeps it tender.

Chocolate won’t set?
Chill longer—20 minutes minimum.

Conclusion

Millionaire Shortbread is pure holiday luxury—a trio of buttery, caramel, and chocolate bliss that fits 2025’s love for easy layered desserts. Whether you’re gifting them, serving them at a party, or savoring one with coffee, these bars bring decadence without the drama. Grab your pan (like this one), whip up some Millionaire Shortbread, and watch them vanish—I promise they’ll steal the show. Pin your layered masterpieces with #MillionaireShortbread or tag me below—I’m dying to see your creations! Craving more decadent holiday bars? Follow my Pinterest for treats that make every moment richer—your dessert lineup deserves this million-dollar touch.