Introduction
Hey there, readers! Today, let’s embark on a culinary adventure and immerse ourselves in the delectable world of “Dulce De Leche Millionaire Shortbread.” This three-layer masterpiece is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy textures that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is designed to guide you every step of the way. So, grab your aprons, because we’re about to whip up a treat that will leave you craving for more!
The Magic of Dulce De Leche
Before we dive into the detailed recipe, let’s shed some light on the star ingredient of this dessert: dulce de leche. This irresistible caramel sauce is made by slowly simmering sweetened milk until it thickens and turns into a luscious, creamy delight. Its rich, toffee-like flavor adds a touch of indulgence to every bite. In this recipe, we’ll use store-bought dulce de leche to save you time, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can try making your own from scratch.
Crafting the Perfect Shortbread Base
The foundation of this millionaire shortbread lies in the buttery, crumbly shortbread base. To achieve the desired texture, it’s crucial to use cold, unsalted butter cut into small cubes. This method ensures that the butter remains evenly distributed throughout the dough, creating those coveted pockets of air that result in a delightfully crisp and tender base. The addition of a pinch of salt enhances the buttery flavor and balances out the sweetness of the caramel and chocolate layers.
Layering the Symphony of Flavors
Once you’ve mastered the shortbread base, it’s time to transform it into a millionaire’s dream. The first layer consists of a generous spread of dulce de leche. Its smooth, sticky texture will create a perfect canvas for the next layer: a velvety chocolate ganache made with dark chocolate and heavy cream. The richness of the chocolate perfectly complements the caramel sweetness, creating an irresistible combination.
The Finishing Flourish: Salted Caramel Drizzle
Now, let’s add a touch of extra decadence with a salted caramel drizzle. This drizzle is easy to make by simply combining dulce de leche and melted butter. The addition of sea salt crystals provides a delightful contrast to the sweetness, elevating the dessert to a whole new level of sophistication.
Ingredients
To make this Dulce De Leche Millionaire Shortbread, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Shortbread Base:
- 1 1/4 cups (150g) plain flour
- 8 tablespoons (113g) unsalted butter, cold, cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup (50g) caster sugar
- Pinch of salt
For the Dulce de Leche Layer:
- 1 can (397g) dulce de leche
For the Chocolate Ganache Layer:
- 100g dark chocolate, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
For the Salted Caramel Drizzle:
- 1/4 cup (63g) dulce de leche
- 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, melted
- Pinch of sea salt crystals
Instructions
To Make the Shortbread Base:
- Preheat oven to 170°C (150°C fan-forced). Grease and line a 20x20cm square baking tin with baking paper.
- In a large bowl, rub the flour and butter together with your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
- Stir in the caster sugar and salt.
- Press the mixture into the prepared baking tin and prick the top with a fork.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
To Make the Dulce de Leche Layer:
- Spread the dulce de leche evenly over the cooled shortbread base.
To Make the Chocolate Ganache Layer:
- Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it begins to simmer.
- Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate. Stir until the chocolate has melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Pour the ganache over the dulce de leche layer and spread it out evenly.
To Make the Salted Caramel Drizzle:
- Combine the dulce de leche, melted butter, and sea salt in a small bowl. Stir until well combined.
- Drizzle the salted caramel over the chocolate ganache layer.
To Finish:
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the layers to set.
- Cut into squares to serve.
Conclusion
There you have it, readers! “Dulce De Leche Millionaire Shortbread” is a delectable dessert that combines the sweetness of caramel, the richness of chocolate, and the delightful crunch of shortbread. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress your taste buds. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you craving for more. Don’t forget to check out our other articles for more mouthwatering dessert ideas!
FAQ about Dulce De Leche Millionaire Shortbread
What is Dulce De Leche Millionaire Shortbread?
A decadent treat consisting of a shortbread base, a layer of dulce de leche, and a chocolate topping.
What is the difference between Dulce De Leche and Caramel?
Dulce de leche is made by slowly cooking sweetened milk, resulting in a thicker, creamier texture than caramel.
Is this dessert difficult to make?
No, it’s a relatively simple dessert that can be made in 3 easy steps.
What type of shortbread do I use?
Use a classic shortbread recipe or a ready-made shortbread crust.
How do I make the dulce de leche layer?
Use a can of store-bought dulce de leche or make your own by heating sweetened condensed milk in a covered pot for several hours.
What type of chocolate should I use for the topping?
Use a good-quality dark or semisweet chocolate.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the shortbread base up to 3 days in advance. Assemble the entire dessert up to a day before serving.
How should I store Dulce De Leche Millionaire Shortbread?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Dulce De Leche Millionaire Shortbread?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled dessert for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
What are some variations to this dessert?
- Use salted caramel instead of dulce de leche.
- Add chopped nuts to the shortbread base.
- Top with a layer of whipped cream or ice cream.