Million Dollar Bars – BEST RECIPES
If you are a fan of Twix bars, caramel, chocolate, and buttery shortbread, you are going to fall head over heels for Million Dollar Bars! Sometimes known as Millionaire’s Shortbread or Caramel Slice, these decadent treats are rich, indulgent, and absolutely irresistible.
What Are Million Dollar Bars?
Million Dollar Bars consist of three distinct, mouthwatering layers:
1. The Base: A buttery, crumbly shortbread crust.
2. The Middle: A thick, gooey, sweet caramel filling.
3. The Top: A smooth, rich chocolate glaze.
They taste like a million bucks, but thankfully, they don’t cost that much to make!
Ingredients for Success
Shortbread Crust
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Caramel Layer
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Chocolate Layer
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening (for a smoother melt)
- Flaky sea salt for sprinkling (optional but recommended!)
Step-by-Step Guide to Million Dollar Bars
Step 1: Bake the Shortbread
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
In a stand mixer, cream the butter and sugar until light. Gradually add the flour and salt until a crumbly dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the edges are golden brown. Let it cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Caramel
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly. Attach a candy thermometer and cook until the mixture reaches 225°F (soft ball stage), which takes about 5-7 minutes.
Remove from heat and carefully stir in the vanilla and salt. Pour the hot caramel immediately over the cooled shortbread crust. Let the caramel set at room temperature for about 2 hours, or chill in the fridge for 45 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Chocolate
Place the chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted and smooth.
Pour the melted chocolate over the set caramel layer, spreading it into an even layer with a spatula.
Step 4: Chill and Slice
Let the chocolate set in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Before the chocolate gets completely rock hard, take a sharp knife and score the chocolate layer (this prevents cracking when you cut them later).
Once fully set, lift the bars out using the parchment overhang. Use a sharp, warm knife to cut them into squares. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired!
Pro Tips for Perfect Bars
- Patience is Key: Let each layer cool and set before adding the next one. This ensures clean, distinct layers.
- Watch the Caramel: Caramel can burn very quickly. Keep stirring it and don’t walk away from the stove!
- Cutting Clean Lines: To get bakery-worthy clean cuts, run your knife under hot water and wipe it dry before every single slice.
Storing Your Million Dollar Bars
These bars are quite rich, so cutting them into smaller squares is usually a good idea!
– Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
– Fridge: They will keep for up to 2 weeks in the fridge. They taste amazing cold!
– Freezer: You can freeze these bars for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Enjoy making (and eating!) these incredible Million Dollar Bars. They truly are one of the BEST RECIPES you’ll ever add to your collection.
