Ingredients
Method
Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray.
Make the Shortbread Base:
- In a food processor, pulse the flour, chilled butter, powdered sugar, and salt until the mixture resembles wet sand. Alternatively, combine the ingredients with a pastry blender.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer.
Bake the Shortbread:
- Bake for 20–30 minutes, or until the shortbread is lightly golden and glossy.
- Let the shortbread cool completely on the countertop or in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
Prepare the Caramel Layer:
- In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, corn syrup, and butter.
- Whisk constantly until the mixture thickens and reaches a temperature of 220–225°F on an instant-read thermometer (about 15 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Assemble the Caramel Layer:
- Pour the caramel over the cooled shortbread and use a spatula to spread it evenly.
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes until the caramel sets.
Add the Chocolate Topping:
- Melt the chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring frequently.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel and spread it evenly with an offset spatula.
- Sprinkle flaky salt on top.
Chill and Slice:
- Refrigerate the bars until the chocolate sets, about 30 minutes.
- Slice into squares with a sharp knife, cleaning the blade between cuts for neat edges.
Notes
- Storage: Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 6 months.
- Chocolate Substitution: Milk chocolate can be used for a sweeter topping, but bittersweet chocolate offers a balanced flavor.
- Customization: Add a drizzle of white chocolate or sprinkle chopped nuts over the top for extra flair.