Millionaire Brownies
These Millionaire Brownies are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With a buttery shortbread crust, rich caramel, and indulgent chocolate ganache, they are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a birthday, or simply craving something sweet, these brownies stand out with their unique layers and flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Layers: Each bite features a buttery shortbread base topped with luscious caramel and velvety chocolate.
- Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these brownies even if you’re short on time.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, bake sales, or just an indulgent dessert after dinner.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of flavors appeals to both chocolate lovers and caramel fans alike.
- Easy Storage: These brownies stay fresh for days when stored properly, making them great for meal prep.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, it’s essential to gather the right tools to ensure everything goes smoothly. Having the right equipment simplifies the process and can enhance your baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×9 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Saucepan
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×9 inch baking pan: This size is perfect for achieving the ideal thickness of your millionaire brownies.
- Electric mixer or whisk: Helps in creating a smooth batter and ensures all ingredients are well combined.
- Rubber spatula: Great for scraping down bowls and ensuring you get every last bit of that delicious mixture.
Ingredients
These millionaire brownies are made with a buttery shortbread crust and topped with decadent layers of caramel and chocolate ganache.
For the Shortbread Crust
- 2/3 cup sweetened condensed milk (200g)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into chunks (56g)
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar (50g)
- 2 Tbsp light corn syrup (30g)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste (4g)
- 1/2 tsp fine salt (3g)
For the Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (113g)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (125g)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (30g)
- 1/4 tsp fine salt (1g)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (300g)
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (95g)
- 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted (65g)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (65g)
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips, chopped (90g)
- 2 large eggs, room temperature (112g)
- 1/4 cup vegetable or canola oil (55g)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (55g)
- 2 Tbsp water (30g)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste (4g)
For the Chocolate Ganache Topping
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream, room temperature (120g)
- 2/3 cup dark chocolate chips (60-65% cocoa) (120g)
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature (30g)
- 1 Tbsp light corn syrup – optional (20g)
- Flaky sea salt – garnish
How to Make Millionaire Brownies
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan
Grease your 9×9 inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Step 2: Make the Shortbread Crust
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, unsalted butter chunks, brown sugar, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and fine salt.
- Stir until melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup flour with the melted mixture until fully combined. Spread evenly in the prepared baking pan.
Step 3: Bake the Shortbread Crust
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until lightly golden. Allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the brownie batter.
Step 4: Make the Brownie Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together room temperature butter with granulated sugar until fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time while mixing in between until fully incorporated.
- Mix in vegetable oil and vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together remaining flour, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, chopped chocolate chips, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients until just combined.
Step 5: Assemble Brownies
Pour brownie batter over cooled shortbread crust in the baking pan. Smooth out the top with a spatula.
Step 6: Bake Brownies
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow cooling completely before adding ganache.
Step 7: Prepare Chocolate Ganache Topping
In a small saucepan over medium heat:
1. Heat heavy whipping cream until just simmering.
2. Remove from heat; add dark chocolate chips and butter stirring until smooth.
3. Optionally stir in light corn syrup for extra shine.
Step 8: Top Brownies with Ganache
Pour warm ganache over cooled brownies spreading evenly. Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top if desired.
Step 9: Chill & Serve
Refrigerate brownies for at least an hour before slicing into squares. Enjoy your homemade millionaire brownies!
How to Serve Millionaire Brownies
Millionaire brownies are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways to enhance their rich flavors. Here are some tasty serving suggestions to enjoy these decadent desserts.
A La Mode
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a creamy contrast to the rich brownie layers.
With Fresh Berries
- Serve with a side of fresh raspberries or strawberries to add a touch of tartness and freshness.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- Warm up some caramel sauce and drizzle it over the brownies for an extra layer of sweetness.
Pair with Coffee
- Enjoy millionaire brownies alongside a hot cup of coffee to balance the sweetness with a bitter note.
Whipped Cream Topping
- Top the brownies with freshly whipped cream for an added lightness and creaminess.
Flaky Sea Salt Garnish
- Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top just before serving to enhance the flavors and add a bit of crunch.
How to Perfect Millionaire Brownies
To achieve the best millionaire brownies, consider these helpful tips.
-
Use room temperature ingredients: This helps create a smoother batter, ensuring even mixing and better texture.
-
Sift your cocoa powder: Sifting removes lumps and results in a more uniform chocolate flavor throughout the brownies.
-
Don’t overmix: Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough brownies instead of tender ones.
-
Let them cool completely: Allow the brownies to cool before cutting, which helps maintain clean edges and prevents crumbling.
-
Use high-quality chocolate: Opt for good-quality dark chocolate chips for a richer taste that complements the caramel layer perfectly.
Best Side Dishes for Millionaire Brownies
When serving millionaire brownies, pairing them with complementary sides can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:
-
Fresh Fruit Salad
A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the richness of the brownies. -
Chocolate Mousse
Light and airy chocolate mousse provides a different texture while keeping with the chocolate theme. -
Vanilla Custard
Creamy custard pairs well, adding richness without overwhelming sweetness. -
Mint Ice Cream
The mint flavor refreshes your palate between bites of sweet brownie indulgence. -
Peanut Butter Sauce
Drizzling warm peanut butter sauce enhances the flavor profile with its nutty richness. -
Cheesecake Bites
Mini cheesecake bites offer a tangy contrast that complements the sweetness of millionaire brownies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making millionaire brownies can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch for.
- Underbaking the brownies: Ensure that you bake until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. If they’re too gooey, they won’t set properly.
- Skipping the cooling time: Allow the layers to cool completely before slicing. This prevents a messy cut and helps maintain structure.
- Using cold ingredients: Always use room temperature butter and eggs for a smoother batter. Cold ingredients can lead to uneven mixing.
- Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science. Use measuring cups and spoons for precise quantities, especially for flour and sugar.
- Ignoring the salt: Salt enhances the flavor of your brownies. Don’t skip it, as it balances the sweetness of the caramel and chocolate.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.
Freezing Millionaire Brownies
- Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Millionaire Brownies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place brownies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat one piece at a time on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a lid on for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making millionaire brownies.
What are Millionaire Brownies?
Millionaire brownies are rich dessert bars featuring a buttery shortbread base topped with caramel and chocolate ganache.
How do I make Millionaire Brownies from scratch?
To make millionaire brownies from scratch, prepare the shortbread crust, layer it with caramel, and finish with chocolate ganache.
Can I customize my Millionaire Brownies?
Yes! You can add nuts or change the type of chocolate used in the ganache for unique flavors.
How should I store my leftover Millionaire Brownies?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze them for later enjoyment.
Final Thoughts
These millionaire brownies are not just delicious but also incredibly versatile. With their rich layers of caramel and chocolate, they are perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with your favorite toppings or mix-ins. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Millionaire Brownies
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the rich decadence of Millionaire Brownies, a delightful dessert that combines a buttery shortbread crust, luscious caramel filling, and a velvety chocolate ganache topping. These layered brownies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday celebration, holiday gathering, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. With their delightful flavors and textures, these brownies are sure to impress friends and family alike. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, this recipe will quickly become your go-to treat for any sweet craving.
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (divided)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- Flaky sea salt (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.
- In a saucepan over low heat, combine sweetened condensed milk, 1/4 cup butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until melted. Mix in 1 cup flour and spread evenly in the pan.
- Bake the shortbread for 15-20 minutes until golden. Let cool slightly.
- In a bowl, cream together remaining butter and granulated sugar; add eggs one at a time. Combine with oil and vanilla.
- In another bowl, whisk together remaining flour, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, chocolate chips, and salt. Gradually add to wet ingredients until just combined.
- Pour brownie batter over cooled crust and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes until set.
- For ganache, heat cream until simmering; remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips and remaining butter until smooth.
- Pour ganache over cooled brownies and sprinkle with flaky sea salt before chilling for at least an hour before slicing.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 315
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 115mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
