Mary Berry Caramel Shortbread Recipe (Mary Berry’s Millionaire Shortbread)

Name: Mary Berry's Caramel Shortbread (Millionaire's Shortbread)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 20 squares
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 225g plain flour; 100g semolina; 225g butter; 100g caster sugar; 50g flaked almonds (optional); 25g demerara sugar (optional)

Delving into the delightful world of Mary Berry’s Caramel Shortbread, also affectionately known as Mary Berry’s Millionaire Shortbread, we uncover a treat that marries the simplicity of buttery shortbread with the rich decadence of caramel and chocolate. This recipe, originating from Mary Berry's vast collection of baking recipes, is a testament to her expertise and creativity in the kitchen.

Mary Berry’s Caramel Shortbread: A Brief Overview

Mary Berry’s Caramel Shortbread combines a crumbly, butter-rich shortbread base, a smooth and velvety caramel middle layer, and a glossy chocolate topping. This dessert is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visually appealing treat that promises to be a centerpiece at any gathering.

Cultural and Historical Context

This confectionery delight is deeply rooted in British tea-time traditions, showcasing the fusion of simple ingredients to create luxurious outcomes. Mary Berry, a revered figure in British baking, lends her culinary prowess to this recipe, ensuring that it's accessible to bakers of all skill levels while maintaining an air of sophistication.

Ingredients for the Caramel Shortbread

To recreate Mary Berry’s signature shortbread, you will need:

For the Shortbread Base:
- Plain flour: 225g (8oz)
- Semolina: 100g (4oz)
- Butter: 225g (8oz)
- Caster sugar: 100g (4oz)
- Optional: Flaked almonds (50g) for topping and demerara sugar (25g) for dusting

Preparation Instructions

Preparation: Begin by preheating your oven and preparing your baking tin appropriately.
Shortbread Base: Combine flour and semolina, then incorporate butter and sugar. Press this mixture into your tin and bake until pale golden.
Assembly: Allow the baked shortbread to cool slightly before slicing into fingers. Optionally, sprinkle with demerara sugar for added texture.

Storage and Reheating

Mary Berry’s Caramel Shortbread stores beautifully in an airtight container, ensuring it remains delicious for days. For best results, keep it at room temperature to preserve the texture of the chocolate and caramel layers.

Nutritional Information

Given the rich ingredients like butter, sugar, and chocolate, this treat is high in calories and fat. Enjoying it in moderation is key to fitting it into a balanced diet.

FAQ about the Caramel Shortbread

Can I substitute semolina? Yes, cornflour or ground rice can be used as a substitute for semolina, offering a slightly different texture.
How do I prevent the chocolate layer from cracking? Ensure the caramel layer is completely cool before adding the melted chocolate, and consider scoring the chocolate before it fully sets for cleaner cuts.

In conclusion, Mary Berry’s Caramel Shortbread is a testament to the joy of baking, combining simple ingredients to create a layered dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent. Perfect for special occasions or as a treat alongside your afternoon tea, this recipe is sure to delight anyone who tries it.

Original recipe attributed to Mary Berry, highlighting her influence in the world of baking and her ability to make sophisticated baking accessible to home cooks.

For more detailed instructions and additional recipes from Mary Berry, exploring her book "My Kitchen Table: 100 Cakes and Bakes" would be an excellent start.