Millionaire's Shortbread, also known as ChocolateCaramel Slice, is a luxurious dessert that brings together three indulgent layers: a buttery shortbread base, a creamy caramel center, and a rich chocolate topping. Beyond its irresistible taste, its ingredients offer surprising benefits. Butter, a key component, contains fat-soluble vitamins like A and D, which support bone health and vision. Chocolate, especially dark varieties, is rich in antioxidants like flavonoids, known to protect cells from damage and promote heart health. The caramel layer, while primarily a source of quick energy from sugars, can be made healthier with natural sweeteners. Despite its richness, enjoying this dessert in moderation can provide a delightful balance of flavor and nourishment.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup desiccated coconut
- 125g unsalted butter, melted
- 395g can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons golden syrup
- 125g unsalted butter, extra
- 200g dark chocolate, chopped
Alternatives to ingredients
- Replace butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute
- Replace brown sugar with coconut sugar.
- Healthy Caramel: Make caramel using natural sweeteners like maple syrup and almond milk instead of traditional condensed milk.
- For Gluten Sensitivity: Replace regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour and make sure other ingredients like chocolate and condensed milk are certified gluten-free.
- For Lactose Intolerance: Use dairy-free butter and replace condensed milk with coconut condensed milk and choose lactose-free or vegan dark chocolate.
Method:
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a 20cm square baking pan with baking paper.
- Prepare Base: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and desiccated coconut. Stir in the melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan to form an even layer.
- Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the base is lightly golden. Allow it to cool completely.
- Make Caramel: In a medium saucepan, combine sweetened condensed milk, golden syrup, and extra butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and turns a golden brown color.
- Add Caramel Layer: Pour the caramel over the cooled shortbread base and spread it evenly. Let it cool completely.
- Prepare Chocolate: Melt the chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water. Stir until smooth.
- Finish Slice: Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer and spread it evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is set.
- Serve: Once set, remove from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before cutting into squares.
Notes:
- Chocolate Choice: You can substitute milk chocolate or use a mix of milk and dark chocolate according to your preference.
- Syrup Substitution: If golden syrup is unavailable, honey or corn syrup can be used.
- Storage: Keep the slice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Dessert Without an Oven?
- Yes, you can prepare a no-bake version by chilling the shortbread layer instead of baking it. Mix crushed biscuits (gluten-free if needed) with melted butter and press it firmly into the pan.
What Is the Best Way to Store Millionaire's Shortbread?
- Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the pieces for up to two months.
Can I Use Other Types of Flour or Sugar?
- Yes! For flour, try oat flour or coconut flour. For sugar, honey, agave syrup, or stevia can be used as alternatives.
How Can I Make This Dessert Vegan?
- Use vegan butter, coconut condensed milk, and vegan dark chocolate to make the recipe plant-based.
How Long Does This Dessert Last?
- When stored properly, it lasts up to one week in the fridge or two months in the freezer without compromising taste or texture.
Can I Make the Caramel from Scratch Without Using Ready-Made Options?
- Yes! Combine brown sugar and a plant-based milk (e.g., almond or coconut milk) over low heat until thickened. Add a pinch of salt for flavor balance.
Nutrition Value:
Plain Flour (1 cup)
- Calories: 455
- Carbohydrates: 95 g
- Protein: 13 g
- Fat: 1 g
- Sodium: 2 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: B vitamins (thiamine, niacin, riboflavin)
- Minerals: Iron, magnesium, phosphorus
Nutritional Benefit: Provides energy through carbohydrates and B vitamins essential for metabolism.
Brown Sugar (1/2 cup)
- Calories: 420
- Carbohydrates: 108 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Minimal amounts
- Minerals: Calcium, potassium, iron
Nutritional Benefit: Adds sweetness and provides small amounts of essential minerals.
Desiccated Coconut (1/2 cup)
- Calories: 185
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Fat: 17 g
- Sodium: 10 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Vitamin C
- Minerals: Iron, magnesium, zinc
Nutritional Benefit: Provides MCTs for energy, supports digestion, and offers fiber and essential minerals.
Unsalted Butter (125 g, melted)
- Calories: 900
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Fat: 100 g
- Sodium: 2 mg
- Cholesterol: 300 mg
- Vitamins: A, D, E, K
- Minerals: Calcium
Nutritional Benefit: Adds flavor and serves as a source of fat-soluble vitamins; should be used in moderation.
Sweetened Condensed Milk (395 g)
- Calories: 1,300
- Carbohydrates: 215 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Fat: 45 g
- Sodium: 370 mg
- Cholesterol: 135 mg
- Vitamins: Vitamin D
- Minerals: Calcium, phosphorus
Nutritional Benefit: Provides creaminess and sweetness, along with calcium and protein.
Golden Syrup (2 tbsp)
- Calories: 128
- Carbohydrates: 33 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Minimal amounts
- Minerals: Minimal amounts
Nutritional Benefit: Sweetens and provides quick energy; primarily a source of carbohydrates.
Extra Unsalted Butter (125 g)
- Calories: 900
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Fat: 100 g
- Sodium: 2 mg
- Cholesterol: 300 mg
- Vitamins: A, D, E, K
- Minerals: Calcium
Nutritional Benefit: Enhances richness and flavor; high in fat and vitamins.
Dark Chocolate (200 g, chopped)
- Calories: 1,100
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Fat: 70 g
- Sodium: 15 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Small amounts of A and E
- Minerals: Iron, magnesium, copper
Nutritional Benefit: Rich in antioxidants, supports heart health, and boosts mood and energy levels.
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