Ingredients for Million Dollar Bars
- For the Shortbread Crust:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
- For the Caramel Layer:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup golden syrup or corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Chocolate Layer:
- 1 1/2 cups semisweet or milk chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or butter (optional, for a smoother texture)
How to Make Million Dollar Bars
Step 1: Make the Shortbread Crust
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to smooth it out into an even layer.
- Bake the crust for 15-18 minutes or until lightly golden. Let it cool completely while you prepare the caramel layer.
Step 2: Prepare the Caramel Layer
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, butter, and golden syrup over medium heat. Stir constantly until the butter is melted and the mixture begins to simmer.
- Continue cooking and stirring for about 10 minutes until the caramel thickens and turns a deep golden color. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the caramel over the cooled shortbread crust and spread it evenly with a spatula. Let it set for about 20-30 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Chocolate Layer
- Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. For an extra smooth finish, stir in the coconut oil or butter.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer and use a spatula to spread it evenly. Let the bars cool at room temperature or refrigerate until the chocolate has hardened.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
Once the chocolate is firm, use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan. Slice them into squares or bars with a sharp knife. Enjoy!