Chocolate Caramel Shortbread

Name: Chocolate Caramel Shortbread
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 pieces
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I can’t resist the indulgent combination of chocolate, caramel, and buttery shortbread. This Chocolate Caramel Shortbread recipe has become a favorite in my household for celebrations and cozy stays alike. The layers meld together perfectly, creating a treat that’s as gorgeous as it is delicious. Every time I make this dessert, friends and family rave about its irresistible texture and flavor. Whether it's for a party or just a personal treat, I always make sure to whip these up and indulge in the magic of this combination.

Created by

Chelsea Payne

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:04:18.104Z

As I navigated through a few recipes to find the perfect Chocolate Caramel Shortbread, I discovered that the key lies in chilling each layer to achieve that signature crunch. I experimented with timing and texture, ultimately opting for a robust shortbread base that crumbles beautifully beneath the luscious caramel and chocolate layers. This method works wonders because it balances the richness of flavors while maintaining a delightful bite.

During my baking adventures, I also learned that allowing the caramel to cool slightly before pouring it atop the shortbread helps to prevent it from sinking into the base. The result? A stunning layered dessert that not only looks impressive but tastes heavenly. Every bite takes you on a sweet journey that leaves you wanting more!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Decadent layers of creamy chocolate, rich caramel, and buttery shortbread
Perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite
An ideal dessert for gatherings or sweet indulgences at home

      

Understanding the Key Ingredients

The foundation of this Chocolate Caramel Shortbread lies in the buttery shortbread base. By using unsalted butter, you maintain control over the salt level, allowing the sweetness of the powdered sugar and the rich flavors of the caramel and chocolate to shine through. The all-purpose flour gives the shortbread a tender texture that contrasts beautifully with the dense caramel layer, ensuring each bite is delightfully balanced.

When it comes to the caramel layer, the combination of brown sugar and heavy cream is crucial for achieving that deep, rich flavor. Brown sugar contains molasses, which adds complexity and moisture to the caramel. Be sure to stir continuously while cooking to prevent burning; look for a texture that’s thickened and bubbling gently for about five minutes. This step is essential for creating a velvety caramel that won't ooze out once layered.

Perfecting Your Chocolate Topping

For the chocolate topping, selecting high-quality dark chocolate chips can significantly enhance the overall flavor. Aim for a chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content; it will provide a robust counterpoint to the sweetness of the caramel. When melting, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring frequently. This prevents overheating, which can cause the chocolate to seize—a common baking mishap. If this happens, adding a teaspoon of vegetable oil can help restore its smooth consistency.

Allow the chocolate layer to set properly in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This cooling phase not only solidifies the chocolate but also helps to bring together all the layers, making slicing and serving easier. If you prefer a softer chocolate layer, you can adjust the time spent in the refrigerator, but keep in mind this may result in a messier serve upon slicing.

Ingredients

Shortbread Base

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

Caramel Layer

1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Chocolate Topping

1 cup dark chocolate chips
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions

Prepare the Shortbread

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

Press the dough into a greased 9x9 inch baking dish evenly. Bake for 20 minutes or until lightly golden.

Make the Caramel

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and starts to bubble. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes before removing it from heat; add the vanilla and mix well.

Pour the caramel over the baked shortbread base.

Prepare the Chocolate Topping

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips and butter. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Once melted, pour the chocolate over the caramel layer and spread it evenly.

Allow to cool and set in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

Slice and Serve

Once fully set, remove the dessert from the refrigerator. Using a sharp knife, slice into squares and serve. Enjoy the decadent layers of chocolate, caramel, and shortbread!

Pro Tips

Chilling each layer is key to achieving that perfect texture and preventing the layers from mixing. For an extra touch, sprinkle sea salt on top of the chocolate layer before it sets.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Chocolate Caramel Shortbread is an excellent make-ahead dessert. Once prepared and chilled, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to prepare it even further in advance, consider freezing the cut squares. Layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored this way for up to three months, making them a convenient treat for unexpected guests or personal cravings.

When ready to serve from frozen, simply let them thaw in the refrigerator for a couple of hours. This way, you can easily pull them out and enjoy them at your leisure without losing any of their incredible textures or flavors.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

For a beautiful presentation, consider dusting the finished shortbread with a light sprinkle of sea salt or coarse flaked salt before slicing. This contrast plays wonderfully with the sweetness of the chocolate and caramel, adding a layer of complexity to each bite. Additionally, serving the squares on a rustic wooden board with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate your dessert experience, making it feel more decadent and special.

You can also experiment with variations by adding toasted nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, into the caramel layer. This adds an interesting crunch and can complement the rich flavors well. Alternatively, if you prefer a lighter version, try using a mixture of dark and milk chocolate for the topping, which can provide a creamier texture that’s appealing to a broader audience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the dark chocolate with milk chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate for a sweeter flavor, but it may alter the overall richness of the dessert.

→ How long can these shortbread squares be stored?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Is it necessary to chill the caramel layer?

Chilling the caramel layer is recommended, as it helps to firm it up and makes the bars easier to slice.

→ Can I add nuts to this recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts can be added to the caramel layer for some added crunch and flavor.