Mince Pies Millionaire's Shortbread Recipe

 

Mince Pies Millionaire's Shortbread Recipe: A Decadent Holiday Delight

Give your festive baking a little extra oomph with this Mince Pies Millionaire's Shortbread, where buttery shortbread meets rich caramel with a hint of fruity mince pie filling. This no-fail dessert is perfect for holiday entertaining; combining the best of two classics into one show-stopping dessert.

Ingredients

These are the basic but sinful ingredients required for the fabulous layered dessert:

For the Shortbread Base:

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
• 100 g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (250g)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Mince Pie Layer:

• 1 cup (250g) of good-quality mincemeat, store-bought or homemade
• 2 tablespoons cognac, optional

For the Caramel Layer:

• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (100g)
• 1 can of sweetened condensed milk (397g)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Sauce Topping:

• 7 oz. (200g) dark chocolate, chopped
• 1 TB unsalted butter - for shine

Optional Garnish:

• Edible gold glitter or icing sugar - to give it that more festive look

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Base

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking tin with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, beat together butter and sugar that is softened until light and fluffy.
• Add the flour and salt to the mixing bowl and mix until it forms a dough. Press evenly into the prepared pan.
• Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool slightly.

Step 2: Mince Pie Layer

• Meanwhile, in a pan, gently warm the mincemeat until the shortbread has cooled, adding a splash of brandy if needed to give added depth.
• Spread the mincemeat mixture over the cooled shortbread base and let it set.

Step 3: Prepare the Caramel Layer

• Combine the butter and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
• Add the sweetened condensed milk; bring to a soft boil, stirring without stopping to avoid burning. Simmer over medium-low heat for 5 to 7 minutes or until the caramel thickens and becomes golden.
• Remove from the heat, stir in the vanilla extract, then pour the caramel over the mincemeat layer. Cool completely.

Step 4: Top with Chocolate

• Melt the chopped dark chocolate with the butter in a heat-proof bowl set over simmering water, or alternatively melt in short bursts in the microwave. Stir until smooth.
• Now, pour melted chocolate on the cooled caramel, spreading it properly with the help of a spatula.
• Sprinkle some gold glitter or dust a little icing sugar on to give it that festive touch.

Step 5: Cool then Slice

• Place this in the refrigerator to set for at least 2 hours before serving to allow all the layers to set.
• Once set, with a sharp knife cut into squares or bars. Serve and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

These Mince Pies Millionaire's Shortbread squares are just perfection for any holiday party, afternoon tea, or edible gift. And all that's needed is a steamy cup of tea or hot chocolate to round out the ultimate festive indulgence.

Nutritional Information (Per serving):

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrate: 35g
• Sugar: 25g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Fusion: Rich, buttery millionaire's shortbread with luscious mince pie flavors combined.
• Show-stopping Layers: Buttery shortbread, fruity mincemeat, silky caramel, and glossy chocolate.
• Gift Perfection: Beautifully cut squares are nice and indulging as a homemade gift.