Chocolate Caramel Shortbread

Name: Chocolate Caramel Shortbread
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 16 pieces
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1/4 cup corn syrup; 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk; 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; Pinch of sea salt (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love baking, and one of my all-time favorite treats is chocolate caramel shortbread. The combination of a buttery shortbread base, rich caramel, and smooth chocolate is simply irresistible. Every time I make this dessert, it transports me to my childhood, where I would savor the sweet layers and enjoy sharing them with family and friends. This recipe is not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to make, making it perfect for any occasion or when I just need a sweet pick-me-up.

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:25:17.469Z

When I first discovered chocolate caramel shortbread, I was immediately drawn to its enchanting layers and delightful flavors. After experimenting with different recipes, I realized that the key to achieving the perfect caramel is to cook it slowly and stir frequently to prevent burning. This technique ensures a silky texture that complements the shortbread base beautifully.

One memorable occasion was when I surprised my friends with this treat at a gathering. They were blown away by the rich flavors and buttery goodness. To enhance their experience, I sprinkled a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate layer, which added a wonderful contrast to the sweetness. It's these little touches that make all the difference!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Decadent layers of buttery shortbread, rich caramel, and smooth chocolate
Perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors, elevated by a hint of sea salt
Easily customizable with nuts or flavored extracts for a personal twist

      

Understanding the Shortbread Layer

The shortbread base is the backbone of this dessert, providing a crunchy yet tender texture that contrasts beautifully with the rich caramel and smooth chocolate. It's essential to cream the butter and sugar properly, as this incorporates air into the mixture and contributes to a light shortbread. Make sure you use unsalted butter for better control over the sweetness of the layer; salted butter may alter the flavor balance.

When mixing the dry ingredients into the butter and sugar, do so gently to avoid overworking the dough, which can lead to a tough texture. You want to mix just until the flour is incorporated. If you find the dough too crumbly, adding a tablespoon of cold water can help bring it together. Press the dough firmly into the pan to create an even base, ensuring the shortbread does not crumble when cut.

Creating the Perfect Caramel

Making caramel can be intimidating, but the key is to cook the sugar mixture slowly over medium heat. Stir constantly to prevent it from burning, and look for a thick, bubbly consistency. The cooking time can vary; you want the mixture to simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes until it coats the back of a spoon. A good visual cue is when the caramel appears slightly darker and begins to pull away from the sides of the saucepan.

If you find the caramel is too thick after simmering, you can add a splash of milk to loosen it. For a deeper flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of sea salt during the cooking process. Once poured over the baked shortbread, let it set, but don't let it cool completely before returning it to the oven, as this helps meld the layers together and enhances the overall structure of the dessert.

Chocolate Topping Tips

For the chocolate topping, melting chocolate chips requires finesse; use a microwave-safe bowl and heat them in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring after each. This prevents overheating, which can cause the chocolate to seize. If you notice it’s becoming too thick, adding a teaspoon of vegetable oil can help maintain a glossy finish and make it easier to pour over the caramel layer.

Don’t skip the optional sea salt sprinkle on top of the chocolate; it accentuates the sweetness of the caramel and adds a delightful contrast of flavors. If you want to customize the topping, try adding crushed nuts or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. For storage, these squares can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or can be frozen for longer-term storage. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious chocolate caramel shortbread:

For the Shortbread base

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Caramel Layer

1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup corn syrup
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

For the Chocolate Topping

2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Pinch of sea salt (optional)

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your chocolate caramel shortbread:

Prepare the Shortbread Base

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.

Press the dough into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking pan. Bake for 20 minutes or until lightly golden.

Make the Caramel Layer

In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, butter, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until it reaches a simmer. Continue to cook for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.

Pour the caramel over the baked shortbread and return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes.

Add the Chocolate Topping

Remove from the oven and let the caramel cool slightly. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and butter in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer.

Sprinkle with sea salt if desired.

Cool and Serve

Allow the shortbread to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. For best results, refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set the chocolate.

Enjoy your delicious chocolate caramel shortbread as a delightful treat for any occasion!

Pro Tips

Tip: Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water to cut the shortbread cleanly without cracking the chocolate.

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the great things about chocolate caramel shortbread is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the shortbread base and the caramel layer a day in advance, allowing them to chill overnight. Just make sure to assemble the dessert with the chocolate topping on the day you plan to serve it to ensure that it remains fresh and has the best texture.

If you're a fan of meal prep, consider doubling the recipe. You can cut the squares once set and freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. When you're ready to enjoy a treat, simply pull a square from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows you to have a delightful dessert at your fingertips whenever a craving hits.

Variations and Customizations

While the classic combination of chocolate, caramel, and shortbread is hard to beat, feel free to get creative! Adding a layer of nut butter or incorporating nuts like pecans or hazelnuts into the caramel can introduce new textures and flavors. For an added twist, consider using dark chocolate or white chocolate for the topping; each offers a distinct taste and can elevate the dessert further.

If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute half the butter in the shortbread with coconut oil, which adds a subtle tropical flavor. Additionally, for a gluten-free option, almond flour can replace all-purpose flour in the shortbread. Just note that the texture may change slightly, so keep an eye on the baking time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the butter in this recipe?

While butter provides the best flavor, you can use margarine or a plant-based alternative, but the taste may vary.

→ How should I store leftover shortbread?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate to extend freshness.

→ Can I use different types of chocolate?

Absolutely! Feel free to use dark or milk chocolate according to your preference. Each will offer a unique flavor.

→ Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free mix designed for baking.