Introduction

I’ll never forget the first time I served Malteser Millionaires Shortbread at a dinner party. As a culinary school graduate who usually focuses on savory meats, I initially hesitated to share a dessert recipe. But when my friend Emma took one bite and whispered “This tastes like liquid gold,” I knew I’d struck confectionery gold. Today, I’m thrilled to share my perfected Malteser Millionaires Shortbread recipe – a decadent trio of buttery shortbread, velvety caramel, and chocolate studded with crunchy Maltesers that’ll make you feel like royalty.

What Exactly is Malteser Millionaires Shortbread? A Brief History

This indulgent British treat evolved from traditional millionaires shortbread (named for its richness) with a playful Malteser twist. The original version dates back to 18th-century Scotland as a layered bar featuring shortbread, caramel, and chocolate. Our Malteser caramel slice innovation emerged in the 1990s when home bakers started pressing the honeycomb-filled chocolates into the top layer, creating delightful textural contrast. The magic lies in balancing the crumbly base, chewy caramel, and crisp Maltesers – a triumvirate of textures that makes this tray bake utterly irresistible.

The Ingredients You’ll Need

• Shortbread Base: 225g plain flour (spooned & leveled), 75g caster sugar, 180g chilled unsalted butter (cubed)
• Salted Caramel: 1 can (397g) condensed milk, 125g unsalted butter, 75g light brown sugar, 2 tbsp golden syrup, 1 tsp sea salt flakes
• Chocolate Topping: 300g milk chocolate (chopped, not chips), 1 tbsp vegetable oil, 200g Maltesers

Essential Kitchen Equipment

• 8×8-inch Square Pan: Lined with parchment paper for clean removal
• Heavy-Based Saucepan: For even caramel heat distribution
• Digital Thermometer: Ensures caramel reaches perfect 107°C (225°F)
• Offset Spatula: For smooth chocolate spreading without disturbing caramel

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Perfect Malteser Millionaires Shortbread

Phase 1: The Shortbread Foundation

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Line pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides.
2. Rub butter into flour and sugar until mixture resembles breadcrumbs and clumps when squeezed.
3. Press mixture firmly into pan using flat-bottomed glass. Bake 20 minutes until pale gold. Cool completely.

Phase 2: The Caramel Heart

4. Combine caramel ingredients in saucepan. Melt over medium heat while stirring constantly.
5. Once melted, increase heat slightly. Cook 5-7 minutes until thermometer reads 107°C (225°F) and mixture turns deep amber.
6. Pour over cooled shortbread immediately. Tap pan gently to level. Chill 1 hour until firm.

Phase 3: The Malteser Crown

7. Melt chocolate and oil in heatproof bowl over simmering water (double boiler), stirring until smooth.
8. Pour over set caramel. Quickly arrange Maltesers in rows before chocolate sets.
9. Chill 2 hours minimum. Lift out using parchment overhang. Cut into squares with hot knife.

Chef Chef’s Insider Techniques

• Caramel Confidence: Stir constantly in figure-8 pattern to prevent scorching. The second it hits 107°C, remove from heat – carryover cooking will thicken it perfectly.
• Crumb-Free Cutting: Heat knife under hot water and dry between cuts for pristine edges.
• Texture Trick: Add 1 tsp cornflour to shortbread mix for extra snap without dryness.

Troubleshooting Common Malteser Millionaires Shortbread Issues

• Caramel too soft? Undercooked – ensure it reaches 107°C. If set, return pan to low heat with 1 tbsp flour whisked in.
• Shortbread crumbly? Overworked dough – pulse in food processor next time until just combined.
• Chocolate cracking? Too cold when cut – rest at room temperature 15 minutes before slicing.

Creative Variations to Try

• Salted Honeycomb Crunch: Add crushed homemade honeycomb to caramel layer
• Espresso Elevation: Dissolve 1 tbsp instant coffee in caramel for mocha notes
• Festive Version: Swap Maltesers for Terry’s Chocolate Orange segments

The Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With Malteser Millionaires Shortbread

• Coffee: Dark roast espresso cuts through sweetness
• Dessert Wines: Pedro Ximénez sherry complements caramel notes
• Fruit Contrasts: Fresh raspberries or passionfruit coulis

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Instructions

• Room Temperature: Store in airtight container 3-4 days (separate layers with parchment)
• Freezing: Freeze uncut slab wrapped in clingfilm + foil up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in fridge.
• Reviving: If caramel hardens, microwave squares 8 seconds to restore chewiness.

Frequently Asked Questions about Malteser Millionaires Shortbread

Can I use dark chocolate instead?

Absolutely! Use 70% dark chocolate for a sophisticated balance against the sweet caramel.

Why did my caramel layer separate?

This happens if heat is too high. Cook over medium-low and stir constantly to emulsify ingredients.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute flour with GF blend + ¼ tsp xanthan gum. Use gluten-free Maltesers alternatives.

How do I prevent air bubbles in chocolate?

Tap pan firmly on counter after pouring chocolate. If bubbles appear, pop with toothpick before setting.

Conclusion: Your Culinary Adventure Awaits

This Malteser Millionaires Shortbread recipe proves that luxury doesn’t require complexity. With these foolproof techniques, you’ll create a showstopping treat that makes any occasion feel special. I can’t wait to see your golden-layered masterpieces! Share your creations with me by tagging @MeatRecipeBox on Instagram and Pinterest – you might just inspire our next recipe feature. For more gourmet-made-simple recipes, follow us and remember: the best kitchens are filled with laughter, messy counters, and chocolate-covered fingers!