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Millionaire’s Shortbread Recipe

This decadent no-bake Millionaire’s Shortbread features a buttery graham cracker crust, luscious homemade caramel, and a silky chocolate topping finished with sea salt. Rich, satisfying, and indulgent, it’s a crowd-pleasing treat with layers of flavor and texture—perfect for gifting or sharing at gatherings.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 5 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine british
Servings 24 pieces
Calories 275 kcal

Equipment

  • 9x9-inch square baking pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Food processor
  • Measuring cups
  • Saucepan
  • Candy thermometer (optional but helpful)
  • Microwave-safe bowl
  • Offset spatula or butter knife

Ingredients
  

  • 10 ounces dark chocolate chips
  • 1 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 cup butter divided
  • 6 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 10 ounces shortbread cookies
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon coarse sea salt optional

Instructions
 

  • Grease a 9x9-inch baking pan and line with parchment, leaving a 1-inch overhang.
  • Pulse shortbread cookies in a food processor until fine.
  • Melt ½ cup butter and add to crumbs; pulse to combine.
  • Press mixture firmly into the pan and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  • In a saucepan, combine 6 tbsp butter, sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, and salt.
  • Cook on medium-high until boiling, then on medium until thickened or 230–235°F, 6–8 minutes.
  • Pour caramel over crust, spread evenly, and chill for 2 hours.
  • Melt chocolate chips and remaining 2 tbsp butter in the microwave, stirring every 20 seconds.
  • Spread melted chocolate over caramel; let sit 10 minutes, then sprinkle sea salt (optional).
  • Refrigerate 1 hour until set.
  • Lift bars using parchment, let sit 30 minutes, then cut into 24 squares.

Notes

  • If you don’t have a thermometer, watch for the caramel to thicken and darken noticeably—it should resemble a thick dulce de leche.
  • For easier cutting, dip your knife in hot water and wipe dry between slices.