Decadent Caramel Chocolate Shortbread Bars

Caramel Shortbread Squares Recipe

Overview

This delightful recipe for Caramel Shortbread Squares, crafted by Michelle Everett and awarded first place in a local competition, promises a decadent treat that combines the buttery richness of shortbread with the luscious sweetness of caramel and chocolate. Perfect for dessert, snacks, potlucks, or even Christmas gatherings, these Scottish-inspired bar cookies are sure to be a hit among both kids and adults alike.

Recipe Details

• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 36 squares

Ingredients

• Shortbread Base:

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  • 2/3 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

• Caramel Layer:

  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons corn syrup
  • 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk

• Chocolate Topping:

  • Melted chocolate (for drizzling over caramel layer)

Instructions

1. Prepare Shortbread Base:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • In a mixing bowl, combine 2/3 cup of butter, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1 1/4 cups of flour. Mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

2. Form and Bake Shortbread:

   • Press the shortbread mixture evenly into a 9-inch square baking pan.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Remove from oven and set aside to cool slightly.

3. Prepare Caramel Layer:

   • In a saucepan, combine 1/2 cup of butter, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of corn syrup, and the sweetened condensed milk.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and continue to boil for 5 minutes, stirring continuously.

4. Assemble the Bars:

   • Pour the hot caramel mixture evenly over the baked shortbread base.
   • Allow the caramel layer to cool completely at room temperature.

5. Add Chocolate Topping:

   • Once the caramel layer has cooled, melt the chocolate using a double boiler or microwave.
   • Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cooled caramel layer.

6. Final Preparation:

   • Let the chocolate set completely before cutting the bars into small squares.

Nutritional Information (per square)

• Calories: 130.3
• Total Fat: 8.2g
  • Saturated Fat: 5.1g
• Cholesterol: 17.3mg
• Sodium: 59.7mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 14.5g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Sugar: 10.1g
• Protein: 1.1g

Review and Rating

• Aggregated Rating: 5/5 stars based on 18 reviews

Keywords

Dessert, Lunch/Snacks, Cookie & Brownie, Scottish, European, Kid Friendly, Potluck, Christmas, < 60 Minutes, Oven

Expert Tips and Variations

• Variation: For a nutty twist, sprinkle chopped nuts (like almonds or pecans) over the chocolate layer before it sets.
• Storage: Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or freeze them for longer storage.

These Caramel Shortbread Squares are a testament to the perfect harmony of flavors and textures—buttery, sweet, and irresistibly decadent. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet tooth, they are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Enjoy the indulgence and share the delight with friends and family!