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Decadent Caramel Chocolate Shortbread Bars

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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:

    • 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!

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