Looking for a decadent treat that combines the classic comfort of shortbread with the indulgence of chocolate and caramel? Look no further than Mini Egg Millionaires Shortbread! This indulgent dessert takes the traditional millionaire’s shortbread to new heights with the addition of crushed Mini Eggs, making it a perfect Easter treat or a fun, festive dessert for any occasion.
The rich, buttery shortbread forms the base, providing a crumbly yet melt-in-your-mouth texture. Then comes the smooth, luscious caramel layer, made from butter, sugar, golden syrup, and condensed milk, which adds the perfect balance of sweetness. Finally, the whole thing is topped off with creamy Cadbury milk chocolate and more crushed Mini Eggs, creating a mouthwatering combination of flavors and textures. It’s an absolute showstopper that’s as visually impressive as it is delicious.
Whether you’re preparing for a special holiday gathering or just craving something sweet, Mini Egg Millionaires Shortbread is a treat that’s bound to satisfy your sweet tooth. It’s easy to make, requires no baking, and brings together some of your favorite flavors into one ultimate dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent and Indulgent – Layers of buttery shortbread, rich caramel, and creamy chocolate make this a truly luxurious treat.
- Perfect for Easter or Special Occasions – The addition of Mini Eggs makes this a fun and festive dessert for holidays or any celebration.
- No-Bake Delight – Aside from melting the chocolate and caramel, no baking is required, making it a hassle-free recipe.
- Customizable – You can swap the Mini Eggs for other types of candy or chocolate for a different flavor twist.
- A Showstopper – With its beautiful layers and colorful Mini Egg topping, this dessert is sure to impress guests or family members.
Ingredients
For the Shortbread
- Unsalted butter
- Caster sugar
- Plain flour
- Mini Eggs (crushed)
For the Caramel
- Unsalted butter
- Caster sugar
- Golden syrup
- Condensed milk (one tin)
For Decoration
- Cadbury’s milk chocolate
- Mini Eggs (crushed)
Variations
- Chocolate Swaps: Use dark chocolate or white chocolate in place of milk chocolate for a different flavor profile.
- Add Nuts: Add chopped hazelnuts, almonds, or pecans to the shortbread layer or as a garnish for extra crunch.
- Mini Egg Alternatives: If you can’t find Mini Eggs, you can use other candy-coated chocolates or Easter-themed treats.
- Vegan Version: Substitute dairy-free butter, condensed milk alternatives, and vegan chocolate for a dairy-free version of this treat.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Make the Shortbread Base
In a large bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and caster sugar until smooth and light. Gradually add the plain flour and mix until a dough forms. Fold in the crushed Mini Eggs. Press the dough into the bottom of a lined 9×9-inch (or similar size) baking dish, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Chill the shortbread base in the fridge for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Caramel
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, caster sugar, and golden syrup. Stir constantly to avoid burning. Once the mixture is melted and combined, add the condensed milk and bring to a simmer, stirring for 5-6 minutes until the caramel thickens and becomes smooth. Pour the caramel over the chilled shortbread base, spreading it evenly. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours, or until the caramel has set.
Step 3: Top with Chocolate
Once the caramel is firm, melt the milk chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water (double boiler method) or in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer and spread evenly. Sprinkle the crushed Mini Eggs on top for decoration.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Allow the chocolate to set by refrigerating the shortbread for another hour. Once everything has set, cut into squares or bars. Serve and enjoy!
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Chill Between Layers: Chilling the shortbread and caramel layers before adding the next layer ensures better texture and easier slicing.
- Don’t Rush the Caramel: Stir constantly while cooking the caramel to prevent it from burning and to achieve that silky, smooth texture.
- Crush Mini Eggs Evenly: Use a rolling pin to crush Mini Eggs into small pieces to make sure they distribute evenly over the dessert.
- Allow Time to Set: Let the dessert chill for a few hours to allow the layers to firm up and set properly.
How to Serve
Serve Mini Egg Millionaires Shortbread cold, straight from the fridge. It’s perfect for afternoon tea, dessert after a family meal, or as a fun treat for Easter celebrations. You can serve it as squares, bars, or even individually packaged for gifts or party favors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover shortbread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The layers will stay fresh and firm for several days, making it a great treat to have on hand for snacking.
Freezing
This dessert can be frozen for up to 1 month. Cut into squares, then place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
This dessert is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of chocolate for the topping?
Yes! You can use dark or white chocolate for a different flavor profile, or even mix them together.
2. How do I crush the Mini Eggs?
Place them in a plastic bag and use a rolling pin to gently crush them into small pieces.
3. Can I make this dessert without Mini Eggs?
Yes, you can substitute Mini Eggs with other chocolate candies or even crushed cookies.
4. How long does this dessert last?
It will last up to 5 days in the fridge, kept in an airtight container.
5. Can I make the shortbread base ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the shortbread and chill it overnight before continuing with the caramel and chocolate layers.
6. Can I make this recipe without golden syrup?
Golden syrup can be substituted with honey or corn syrup for a similar result.
7. Do I need to bake the shortbread?
No, the shortbread is no-bake. The base is chilled to firm up before the caramel is added.
8. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular plain flour to make the shortbread base gluten-free.
9. Can I use sweetened condensed milk instead of regular condensed milk?
Yes, sweetened condensed milk is what you typically use for the caramel in this recipe.
10. Can I make this without a fridge?
Chilling the layers helps them set properly, so we recommend refrigerating the dessert for best results.
Conclusion
Mini Egg Millionaires Shortbread is the ultimate treat for anyone who loves rich, indulgent desserts. With its buttery shortbread base, gooey caramel center, and creamy chocolate topping, it’s a dessert that ticks all the boxes for flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Whether for a holiday celebration or just because, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. So, grab your Mini Eggs and get ready to make this indulgent treat that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
PrintMini Egg Millionaires Shortbread
- Total Time: 55 minutes (excluding refrigeration time)
- Yield: 16 pieces 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful twist on the classic millionaire’s shortbread, this festive treat features a buttery shortbread base topped with a rich caramel layer, smooth milk chocolate, and decorated with crunchy Mini Eggs. Perfect for Easter celebrations or any sweet occasion!
Ingredients
For the Shortbread:
-
200 g unsalted butter
-
100 g caster sugar
-
275 g plain flour
-
150 g Mini Eggs (crushed)
For the Caramel:
-
200 g unsalted butter
-
3 tbsp caster sugar
-
4 tbsp golden syrup
-
397 g condensed milk (one tin)
For Decoration:
-
300 g milk chocolate (e.g., Cadbury’s)
-
150 g Mini Eggs (crushed)
Instructions
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and line a 9×9″ square baking tin with parchment paper.
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Prepare Shortbread Base: Cream together the butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the plain flour and mix until a dough forms. Incorporate the crushed Mini Eggs into the dough.
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Bake Shortbread: Press the dough evenly into the prepared tin. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown. Allow to cool completely in the tin.
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Prepare Caramel Layer: In a saucepan, melt together the butter, caster sugar, and golden syrup over medium heat. Stir in the condensed milk and bring to a boil. Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring continuously, until thickened. Pour the caramel over the cooled shortbread base and refrigerate until set.
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Add Chocolate Topping: Melt the milk chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in the microwave. Pour the melted chocolate over the set caramel layer, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the crushed Mini Eggs on top and refrigerate until the chocolate is firm.
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Serve: Once set, cut into squares and enjoy!
Notes
Ensure the caramel layer is thickened properly to prevent it from running when sliced.
For a smoother chocolate topping, temper the chocolate before pouring it over the caramel.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Keywords: Mini Egg, Millionaires Shortbread, Easter Treat, Caramel Shortbread, Chocolate Dessert