Irish Millionaire Shortbread

Sabrina Speroni

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A Simple, Sweet Treat for Saint Patrick’s Day

There’s something magical about Saint Patrick’s Day, isn’t there?

It’s a time for celebration, for warmth, and—if you ask me—for a little indulgence. And what better way to celebrate than with Millionaire Shortbread?

With its buttery shortbread base, luscious caramel filling, and smooth chocolate topping, it’s like a pot of gold in every bite.

Now, I know baking can sometimes feel intimidating, especially when caramel is involved. But trust me, if you can stir a spoon, you can make this recipe.

It’s beginner-friendly, fuss-free, and absolutely worth it.

Plus, we’re using Early Bird Farm & Mill Organic All-Purpose Flour, which gives the shortbread the perfect crumbly texture.

As chef Ina Garten once said, “You don’t have to cook fancy or complicated masterpieces—just good food from fresh ingredients.”


That’s exactly what we’re doing here: taking simple, quality ingredients and turning them into something special.

So, tie on your apron, and let’s make a Saint Patrick’s Day treat that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients for Millionaire Shortbread

For the Shortbread Layer:

  • 2 cups Early Bird Farm & Mill Organic All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 tsp salt

For the Caramel Layer:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/4 cup honey or golden syrup
  • 1/2 tsp salt

For the Chocolate Topping:

  • 8 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped
  • 1 tbsp butter or heavy cream
  • Pinch of sea salt (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Base

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. In a mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the flour and salt, mixing until a crumbly dough forms.
  4. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Use a fork to gently poke holes to prevent air pockets.
  5. Bake for 20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let it cool while you prepare the caramel.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Layer

  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then stir in the brown sugar, condensed milk, honey, and salt.
  2. Stir constantly, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Continue stirring for 5-7 minutes, until thick and golden.
  3. Pour the caramel over the cooled shortbread and let it set at room temperature for 1 hour.

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Topping

  1. Melt the chocolate with butter or heavy cream using a microwave or double boiler, stirring until smooth.
  2. Pour the melted chocolate over the set caramel layer, spreading evenly with a spatula.
  3. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top (optional) for extra flavor.
  4. Let it set for 30 minutes before slicing into squares.

Sweet Success: Baking Tips & Sensory Delights

The moment you sink your teeth into a piece of Millionaire Shortbread, you’ll understand why it’s a classic.

The shortbread crumbles delicately, the caramel melts smoothly, and the chocolate provides a rich finish—a perfect trio of textures and flavors.

Here are a few tips to make sure your shortbread turns out perfect every time:

  • For a crunchier base, bake the shortbread for an extra 5 minutes.
  • For extra Irish authenticity, use golden syrup instead of honey in the caramel layer.
  • For perfect slicing, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts to keep those layers neat.

Now, all that’s left is to enjoy this Saint Patrick’s Day treat with friends and family.

Pair it with a hot cup of tea or an Irish coffee, and you’ve got yourself the ultimate holiday indulgence!

Saint Patrick’s Day Millionaire Shortbread FAQs

Baking at home can sometimes lead to questions, so here are some common ones answered for you!

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the shortbread and caramel layers a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Add the chocolate topping the next day for the freshest taste.

How do I prevent my caramel from burning?

The key is to stir constantly and keep the heat at medium. If it starts to darken too quickly, lower the heat immediately. A heavy-bottomed saucepan helps distribute heat evenly.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes! If you prefer a sweeter finish, milk chocolate works just as well. Dark chocolate provides a richer contrast to the caramel’s sweetness, but both are delicious.

How should I store leftover Millionaire Shortbread?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you live in a warm climate, refrigerate them to keep the chocolate from melting.

A Sweet Tradition Worth Keeping

Baking is more than just mixing ingredients—it’s about creating moments of joy.

This Millionaire Shortbread recipe is a simple way to bring people together, whether it’s for Saint Patrick’s Day or just a cozy afternoon treat.

I’d love to see your baking creations! Share your Millionaire Shortbread on Instagram and tag us at #EarlyBirdFarm.

Let’s celebrate the art of baking together!

Millionaire Shortbread

This beginner-friendly Millionaire Shortbread recipe features a buttery shortbread base, luscious caramel filling, and a rich chocolate topping. Made with Early Bird Farm & Mill Organic All-Purpose Flour, it ensures a melt-in-your-mouth texture and is perfect for Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine Irish-inspired
Servings 16 bars

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • 8×8-inch Baking Pan
  • Saucepan
  • Microwave or Double Boiler

Ingredients
  

For the Shortbread Layer

  • 2 cups Organic All-Purpose Flour Early Bird Farm & Mill
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 tsp salt

For the Caramel Layer

  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/4 cup honey or golden syrup
  • 1/2 tsp salt

For the Chocolate Topping

  • 8 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate chopped
  • 1 tbsp butter or heavy cream
  • Pinch sea salt optional, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  • In a bowl, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
  • Add flour and salt, mixing until a crumbly dough forms.
  • Press evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let cool.
  • In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and stir in brown sugar, condensed milk, honey, and salt.
  • Stir constantly, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Continue stirring for 5-7 minutes until thick and golden.
  • Pour caramel over the cooled shortbread and let set at room temperature for 1 hour.
  • Melt chocolate with butter/heavy cream until smooth, then pour over the set caramel layer.
  • Sprinkle with sea salt (optional) and let set for 30 minutes before slicing into squares.

Notes

For a crunchier base, bake the shortbread for an additional 5 minutes. Use golden syrup instead of honey for extra Irish authenticity.
Keyword Caramel Slice, Millionaire Shortbread, Saint Patrick’s Day Treats
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