As a passionate home baker, I’m thrilled to share my take on James Martin millionaire shortbread. This recipe is a personal favorite, with its indulgent layers of buttery shortbread, rich caramel, and smooth chocolate. It’s a luxurious treat that I’ve made countless times, perfect for special occasions or simply to satisfy a sweet craving.

How To Make James Martin’s Millionaire Shortbread Recipe Overview

This recipe serves about 20 pieces and takes approximately 40 minutes to prepare, with an additional 2 hours for chilling. The buttery biscuit base, made with an increased quantity of ingredients for a more decadent treat, sets the stage for a creamy caramel layer, followed by a rich dark chocolate topping. This is not just a dessert; it’s an experience – a perfect blend of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

For the Biscuit Base:

• 300g dark soft brown sugar
• 450g salted butter, softened
• 185g cornflour
• 525g plain flour

For the Caramel Filling:

• 375g salted butter
• 1 x 597g jar dulce de leche
• 225g caster sugar

For the Topping:

• 150g salted butter
• 600g dark chocolate (70% cocoa solids), broken into pieces

Instructions

• Prepare the Biscuit Base: Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Gradually mix in the plain flour and cornflour to form a dough. Press the dough evenly into a lined 9×13-inch baking tin, prick with a fork, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden. Let it cool.
• Make the Caramel Filling: In a saucepan, combine the dulce de leche, butter, and caster sugar. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and thickened. Pour over the cooled biscuit base and smooth the surface. Allow to cool and set.
• Prepare the Chocolate Topping: Melt the dark chocolate and butter together in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water. Once smooth, pour over the set caramel layer. Tilt the tin to evenly spread the chocolate. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
• Finish: Once set, cut into squares using a hot knife for clean edges.

Recipe Tips:

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for the biscuit base. This makes it easier to cream with the sugar, leading to a smoother dough.

Even Base: When pressing the dough into the baking tin, aim for an even thickness. This helps the base cook uniformly and provides a consistent layer for the caramel and chocolate.

Chill Between Layers: Allow each layer to cool and set before adding the next. This prevents them from mixing and keeps the layers distinct.

Smooth Caramel: For a lump-free caramel layer, stir continuously while cooking. If you’re making caramel from scratch, keep the heat low to avoid burning.

Quality Chocolate: Choose good quality chocolate for the topping. It makes a big difference in taste. If 70% cocoa is too bitter, opt for a lower percentage that suits your preference.

Also Read: James Martin’s Legendary Trifle Recipe

Nutritional Value (Per Serving)

Calories: 580 kcal

Fat: 38g

Saturated Fat: 23g

Carbohydrates: 56g

Sugar: 36g

Protein: 5g

Sodium: 320mg

FAQs

Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted?

Absolutely, you can use unsalted butter in the recipe. It’s a great alternative if you prefer less salt. Just remember, salted butter adds a slight savory balance to the sweetness. If you’re using unsalted butter, consider adding a pinch of salt to the dough and caramel. This will help enhance the flavors. It’s all about personal preference. The outcome will still be delicious and your shortbread will have that wonderful texture and taste. Enjoy your baking and feel free to tweak the recipe to suit your taste!

How long can I store the millionaire shortbread?

You can store millionaire shortbread for quite a while. At room temperature, it stays good in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s cool and dry where you store it. If you prefer, you can keep it in the fridge. There, it lasts for about 2 weeks. The fridge is great for keeping it fresh longer. Just remember, in the fridge, it might become a bit firmer. Either way, it’s a treat that keeps well, so you can enjoy it over several days. Happy snacking!

Can I freeze millionaire shortbread?

Yes, you can definitely freeze millionaire shortbread. It’s a great way to keep it for longer. Just wrap the shortbread pieces tightly in cling film or aluminum foil. Then, put them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can stay frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, just thaw them in the fridge overnight. They’ll taste just as good as when they were fresh. Freezing is a handy option if you want to save some for later or have made a big batch.

Is it necessary to use dark chocolate with 70% cocoa solids?

No, it’s not necessary to use dark chocolate with 70% cocoa solids. It’s a popular choice because it offers a rich, deep flavor that balances the sweetness of the caramel and shortbread. But you can definitely choose a different type of chocolate based on your taste. If you prefer something sweeter, try milk chocolate. Or, for a less intense flavor, use dark chocolate with a lower cocoa content. The key is to pick a chocolate you love. The recipe will still turn out great and be delicious with your personal touch!

Can I make the caramel filling from scratch instead of using dulce de leche?

Yes, you can make the caramel filling from scratch instead of using dulce de leche. Making your own caramel involves cooking sugar and cream together. First, melt sugar over medium heat until it’s golden. Then carefully add cream and stir until it’s smooth. Finally, mix in some butter until it thickens. This homemade caramel gives a fresh, rich flavor. It takes a bit more time and attention, but it’s worth it for that authentic caramel taste. Just be careful with the hot sugar, and enjoy the process of creating your delicious filling!

Conclusion

Making this millionaire shortbread always brings joy and a sense of accomplishment. The layers of texture and richness are a testament to the love and care put into baking. Whether for a special occasion or a treat for yourself, this recipe promises satisfaction and indulgence in every bite. Enjoy the process and the delicious outcome!