Caramel Shortbread

 

Caramel Shortbread is a rich biscuit that is also known by other names such as Caramel Squares, Caramel Slice, Millionaires Shortbread, Millionaires Slice, Wellington Slice and Wellington Squares. Originating from Scotland, this confectionery is very rich; hence it is preceded by the name “Millionaire”. This shortbread is made of three layers that include shortbread biscuit base followed by caramel filling that is topped with milk chocolate. This shortbread is available as squares and bars.

 

Origin of Caramel Shortbread recipe

Caramel Shortbread is believed to have originated from Scotland. There are many traditional Scottish dishes that are influenced by local as well as international cuisines. The original Scottish cuisine is rich in fat and this can be seen in most of this regions dishes. Shortbread is one such biscuit that is native to this country and because of the richness of the ingredients used in the Caramel Slice, it is also known as “Millionaires Shortbread”.

 

Preparation of Caramel Slice

Plain flour, margarine and caster sugar are the basic ingredients that are used to prepare the biscuit base. Margarine is rubbed into the flour till bread crumbs like texture is formed. Sugar is added to this and mixed well. This flour mixture is spread on a greased tray and baked. The filling of the shortbread is made by heating margarine, condensed milk and soft brown sugar. All ingredients are mixed well till they melt and mix well. This filling mixture is spread well on the biscuit base. Finally, the topping is made by melting brown chocolate and spreading it on the filling mixture. Once done, the caramel shortbread is cut into squares or bars as desired.

 

Popular Variation of Millionaire Shortcake Recipe

The original recipe of this shortcake has certain variations. One variation includes shortbread with raisins on top and another with peanut butter instead of chocolate.

One popular version of this shortbread is Nigella Dawson’s Millionaire Shortbread. This particular recipe includes golden syrup instead of brown sugar that is used to prepare the filling. The golden syrup gives a different taste to the shortbread compared to brown sugar.

 

Advantages and Disadvantages of Caramel Squares Recipe

The main advantage of this shortbread is that it makes a wonderful dessert that can be prepared well in advance before a meal and stored away in the refrigerator. However, the shelf life of caramel shortbread is not that long compared to other baked foods or cookies.