Delightfully indulgent, Mini Egg Millionaires Shortbread is a festive twist on the classic treat that combines a buttery shortbread base, a rich and gooey caramel center, and a smooth chocolate topping, all studded with colorful Mini Eggs. Perfect for Easter or any springtime celebration, this dessert is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The crunchy, pastel-colored Mini Eggs not only add a pop of color but also a delightful texture that complements the creamy caramel and crisp chocolate layers beautifully.
This dessert bridges the gap between elegance and nostalgia—bringing childhood joy through candy and adult satisfaction through a luxurious bite. Whether you’re hosting an Easter brunch, preparing bake-sale goods, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this recipe delivers on flavor, texture, and presentation. The layered structure makes it visually appealing, while each bite offers a satisfying combination of crunch, chew, and smoothness. It’s also a great project for beginner bakers who want to create something impressive without too much fuss. With minimal prep time and no fancy equipment needed, Mini Egg Millionaires Shortbread is a deliciously achievable dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for Easter and Spring – The addition of Mini Eggs gives it a festive look and feel, ideal for seasonal celebrations.
- No-Fail Layers – Each layer is simple to make and forgiving, making it suitable for all skill levels.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – This treat stores well, making it ideal for prepping in advance.
- Visually Stunning – The colorful Mini Eggs add an eye-catching pop to any dessert table.
- Kid-Friendly – Children love both the look and the taste of these sweet, layered squares.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour
- Butter
- Sugar
- Condensed milk
- Golden syrup or corn syrup
- Chocolate (milk or dark)
- Mini chocolate eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Salt
Variations
- Different Chocolates: Use white chocolate for the topping or swirl it with milk/dark chocolate for a marbled effect.
- Add Nuts: Chopped hazelnuts or almonds can add extra crunch to the shortbread or topping.
- Caramel Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of sea salt or a dash of espresso powder to deepen the caramel flavor.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the shortbread base.
- Vegan Version: Swap in plant-based butter, dairy-free chocolate, and vegan condensed milk alternatives.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Base
Preheat your oven and line a square baking tin. Combine butter, sugar, and flour to form a crumbly dough. Press it into the base of the tin evenly and bake until lightly golden. Let it cool.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Layer
In a saucepan, combine butter, condensed milk, and golden syrup. Stir continuously over medium heat until it thickens into a golden caramel. Pour it over the cooled shortbread and let it set.
Step 3: Add the Chocolate Topping
Melt your chosen chocolate and pour it over the set caramel layer. Smooth it out with a spatula.
Step 4: Decorate with Mini Eggs
Before the chocolate fully sets, press Mini Eggs gently into the top. Crush a few for texture and visual appeal.
Step 5: Chill and Slice
Refrigerate until the chocolate is firm. Use a sharp knife to cut into squares or bars.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Line your tin with parchment for easy removal.
- Stir the caramel constantly to prevent burning.
- Score the chocolate before it fully sets to avoid cracking when cutting.
- Use a serrated knife dipped in hot water for cleaner slices.
- Crush some Mini Eggs for a rustic look on top.
How to Serve
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Pair with tea, coffee, or milk for a comforting treat.
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an indulgent dessert plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
Freezing
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
Best enjoyed cold, but you can warm slightly in the microwave (10–15 seconds) if you prefer a gooey texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought caramel?
Yes, but homemade caramel provides a better texture and flavor.
2. Can I freeze Mini Egg Millionaires Shortbread?
Absolutely. Freeze in layers with parchment paper between slices.
3. Do I need to refrigerate it to set the caramel?
Chilling helps the layers firm up faster but isn’t strictly necessary if you have time.
4. What’s the best way to cut it cleanly?
Use a hot, sharp knife and wipe it between each cut.
5. Can I use different types of chocolate?
Yes, feel free to mix milk, dark, or white chocolate as preferred.
6. Are there alternatives to Mini Eggs?
Try crushed Maltesers, M&Ms, or chocolate-covered almonds for a twist.
7. What size tin should I use?
An 8×8-inch square tin works perfectly for even layers.
8. Can kids help with this recipe?
Yes! Kids can help with decorating and layering the ingredients.
9. How long does the caramel take to cook?
Usually 10–15 minutes, but keep an eye on it and stir constantly.
10. What if the caramel is too runny?
It likely needs more cooking time. It should be thick and golden before pouring.
Conclusion
Mini Egg Millionaires Shortbread is the perfect combination of festive fun and rich indulgence. With its distinct layers and beautiful presentation, it makes a standout addition to any dessert table. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to enjoy with family, this recipe delivers in flavor, texture, and charm. Make it ahead, share it widely, and savor every colorful bite.
PrintMini Egg Millionaires Shortbread
- Total Time: 1 hour (including setting time)
- Yield: 16 squares 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightfully indulgent, Mini Egg Millionaires Shortbread is a festive twist on the classic treat with a buttery shortbread base, rich caramel center, and silky chocolate topping studded with colorful Mini Eggs. Perfect for Easter, springtime celebrations, or just satisfying a sweet tooth, this show-stopping dessert is surprisingly simple to make and always a crowd favorite.
Ingredients
-
1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
-
¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened (for shortbread)
-
⅓ cup (65g) granulated sugar
-
½ cup (115g) unsalted butter (for caramel)
-
½ cup (120ml) sweetened condensed milk
-
3 tbsp golden syrup or light corn syrup
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
Pinch of salt
-
7 oz (200g) chocolate (milk or dark), chopped
-
1 cup (150g) Mini chocolate eggs, whole and crushed for topping
Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Shortbread Base:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch square tin with parchment paper. Mix butter, sugar, and flour until crumbly. Press evenly into the tin. Bake for 20–25 minutes until lightly golden. Cool completely.
Step 2 – Make the Caramel:
In a saucepan, combine butter, condensed milk, and syrup. Stir continuously over medium heat until it thickens and turns golden (about 10–15 minutes). Stir in vanilla and salt. Pour over cooled shortbread and let it set.
Step 3 – Add the Chocolate Layer:
Melt chocolate and spread evenly over the caramel. Before it sets, press in Mini Eggs and sprinkle some crushed ones for texture.
Step 4 – Chill and Slice:
Refrigerate until firm. Slice with a hot serrated knife for clean edges.
Notes
Use parchment for easy removal.
Stir caramel constantly to avoid burning.
Score chocolate before it fully sets to avoid cracks.
Optional: Add chopped nuts for crunch or swirl white and milk chocolate for a marbled look.
Gluten-free and vegan variations are possible with swaps.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British-Inspired
Keywords: Easter dessert, Millionaire’s shortbread, Mini Egg bars, spring baking, chocolate caramel bars, layered treats, holiday baking, no-fail dessert, shortbread caramel chocolate