Salted Caramel Shortbread Bars (Millionaire-Style Bliss)

If you love buttery shortbread and rich, gooey caramel, these Salted Caramel Shortbread Bars are pure heaven! With a tender, melt-in-your-mouth crust and a thick layer of soft caramel topped with flaky sea salt, this easy dessert is perfect for holidays, bake sales, or sweet cravings any time of year.

✨ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Buttery, soft shortbread base
• Thick, creamy homemade caramel layer
• Perfect sweet & salty balance
• Easy to slice and serve
• Great make-ahead dessert

📝 Ingredients

For the Shortbread Crust:

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Caramel Layer:

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• ¼ cup light corn syrup
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon sea salt

Topping:

• Flaky sea salt (for sprinkling)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
3. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
5. Press evenly into the prepared pan.
6. Bake for 18–22 minutes until lightly golden.
7. Let cool slightly while preparing the caramel.

Step 2: Make the Caramel

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
2. Stir in brown sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk.
3. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly.
4. Cook for 5–8 minutes until thickened and golden.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and salt.

Step 3: Assemble

1. Pour caramel over the warm shortbread crust.
2. Spread evenly with a spatula.
3. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
4. Let cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for 1–2 hours until firm.

🔪 Cutting Tips

• Use a sharp knife.
• Wipe the blade clean between cuts.
• Chill well before slicing for clean layers.

💡 Storage

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days.
• Refrigerate for up to 1 week.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

🍰 Serving Ideas

• Drizzle with melted chocolate for a millionaire-style twist.
• Serve with vanilla ice cream.
• Add chopped pecans for extra crunch.