Ingredients
- All-Purpose FlourUse high-quality, standard white flour for the perfect crumb structure in the shortbread base.
- Unsalted ButterCold, cubed butter is essential for a crumbly, tender shortbread, while softened butter is used for creaming.
- Granulated SugarThis adds necessary sweetness and contributes to the structural integrity and slight chewiness of the cookie.
- Brown SugarWe use light brown sugar in the cookie base to introduce moisture and a slight molasses flavor, enhancing the chew.
- Sweetened Condensed MilkThis ingredient forms the foundation of the rich, chewy caramel layer, ensuring a silky smooth texture.
- Vanilla Bean PasteUse pure vanilla bean paste in both the cookie and the caramel to enhance the overall aroma and complexity of flavor.
- Milk Chocolate ChipsChoose high-quality milk chocolate for the drizzle, ensuring it melts smoothly for an attractive finish.
- Heavy CreamUsed specifically in the caramel recipe to create richness and prevent the cooked sugar from crystallizing too quickly.
- SaltA crucial ingredient that balances the sweetness in both the shortbread and the caramel, making the flavors pop.
Instructions
- Step 1: Preparing the Shortbread Base
- Step 2: Blind Baking and Chilling
- Step 3: Cooking the Crunchy Caramel
- Step 4: Layering and Final Baking
- Step 5: Drizzling the Chocolate Topping
- Step 6: Setting and Cutting
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days; chilling helps the caramel layer maintain its perfect shape and chewy texture.
- If the cookies are stored cold, let them sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving to slightly relax the shortbread base while keeping the caramel layer firm.
- For a luxurious finish, serve these rich, complex cookies alongside a strong, hot cup of black coffee or an espresso to cut through the sweetness.
- Chef's Tip: During Step 3, use a rubber spatula instead of a whisk when cooking the crunchy caramel to thoroughly scrape the bottom and prevent any localized scorching or crystallization.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American