Explore the
wonderful world of
Millionaire’s Shortbread
The origins of the millionaire’s shortbread, also known as caramel shortbread, date back to the early 1950s in Scotland. Zeelandia UK explore modern twists on the classic bakery product.
The original recipe consisting of a shortbread base, caramel layer and chocolate coating was published in the ‘Scottish Association of Young Farmers recipe book’ in 1972, before quickly reaching Australia and the US.
In 2023, the millionaire’s shortbread recipe remains a key product for craft and industrial bakers, both in its traditional form and reimagined with new flavour combinations. Zeelandia UK’s Development Baker Courtenay Jones shares how bakers can stay on trend using a bit of creativity and a range of consumer favourite confectionery treats.
Small changes for added impact
In this subtle adaptation of the classic recipe with a shortbread base and a layer of Zeelandia Pure Caramel we simply added a white chocolate swirl to the top coating, to add extra visual appeal and a creamy contrast to the traditional milky chocolate flavour
Take inspiration from the confectionery and snacking aisles. Bounty millionaires' shortbread, anyone? Level up your bakes by adding new and exciting flavour toppings that complement the shortbread, caramel and chocolate layers – caramelised biscuit, coated chocolate beans, pretzels or slices of favourite chocolate bars will all drive consumer demand. And there is no such thing as too much, so pile on the toppings as the chocolate layer is setting.
Adding a fruity topping is another way to differentiate your millionaire's shortbread and ensure year-round appeal. A white chocolate coating with fresh raspberries gives a summer feel to this popular treat. Strawberries, blueberries or dried alternatives would work equally as well and would also be perfect for a Valentines or Mother's day range
What else can I do with shortbread? – Shortbread is a versatile biscuit base and doesn’t need to be matched with caramel and chocolate. This healthier alternative instead features Zealandia’s Raspberry Jam with a butter streusel topping for added decadence.
Catering for allergens, no problem! While the typical millionaire shortbread recipe typically contains butter, milk, and plain flour, these can be substituted for dairy-free margarine and gluten-free alternatives, whilst dark chocolate can also be used for the topping. For the caramel layer, our Zeelandia ‘Pure Caramel’ is vegan.
Inspired by our shortbread ideas?
