Mary Berry Caramel Shortbread
Dive into the decadence of Mary Berry's Luxurious Millionaire's Shortbread, a dessert that combines the simplicity of shortbread with the richness of caramel and chocolate. This classic treat is perfect for anyone looking to indulge their sweet tooth with a homemade delight. Here's how to bring this luxurious dessert to your table, inspired by Mary Berry's own recipe.
Mary Berry Millionaire Shortbread Recipe: A Culinary Journey of Indulgence
The Essence of Luxury: Mary Berry's Millionaire Shortbread is a three-layered confection that starts with a buttery shortbread base, followed by a smooth, velvety caramel center, and finished with a luscious layer of chocolate. This dessert is not just a treat; it's an experience that marries crunch, creaminess, and chocolatey bliss in every bite.
Ingredients for the Millionaire Shortbread:
- For the Shortbread Base:
- 275g plain flour
- 90g castor sugar
- 200g softened butter
- For the Caramel Layer:
- 120g butter
- 120g light muscovado sugar
- 2 cans (each 440g) condensed milk
- For the Chocolate Topping:
- 250g plain chocolate (39% cocoa solids recommended) or milk chocolate
Preparation Instructions:
- Shortbread Base: Begin by preheating your oven and preparing your baking pan. Combine the flour, sugar, and butter to form a soft dough, press it into the pan, and bake until golden. Let it cool before proceeding to the next layer.
- Caramel Layer: Melt together butter, muscovado sugar, and condensed milk in a saucepan. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens into a caramel consistency, then pour it over the cooled shortbread base.
- Chocolate Topping: Melt your choice of chocolate and spread it over the set caramel layer. Allow the dessert to set completely in the refrigerator before cutting into squares.
Storage and Reheating:
Storing: This shortbread keeps well in an airtight container at room temperature for 5-7 days, or it can be refrigerated for up to a month or frozen for up to 3 months for longer storage.
Reheating: If you've stored your shortbread in the fridge or freezer, allow it to thaw at room temperature or overnight in the fridge before serving. If needed, it can be gently warmed in the oven to re-crisp the base.
Nutritional Information:
Each square of this indulgent treat contains approximately 320 calories, with 18g of fat, 36g of carbohydrates, and 5g of protein, making it a rich and satisfying dessert option.
FAQs:
- Gluten-Free Version: Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by substituting the plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
- Caramel Layer Tips: For a smoother caramel, ensure the sugar is completely dissolved before bringing the mixture to a boil. Cooking the caramel on low heat while stirring constantly helps prevent graininess.
- Cutting Through Chocolate: To avoid cracking the chocolate layer, score it before it's fully set or let the shortbread warm slightly at room temperature before cutting.
Mary Berry's Millionaire Shortbread is more than just a dessert; it's a luxurious treat that's perfect for any occasion, from afternoon tea to special celebrations. Enjoy the process of making it, and even more so, the pleasure of indulging in it.