Millionaire Brownies
These Millionaire Brownies are a delightful treat that combines a buttery shortbread crust with rich layers of caramel and smooth chocolate ganache. Perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations, these brownies are sure to impress anyone with their indulgent flavors and beautiful presentation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Layers: Enjoy the perfect harmony of flavors with a buttery shortbread base, gooey caramel, and luscious chocolate ganache.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can achieve bakery-quality brownies at home.
- Versatile Treat: These millionaire brownies can be served at parties, as gifts, or simply as a sweet treat for yourself.
- Impressive Presentation: The layers create a stunning visual appeal that makes these brownies look as good as they taste.
- Customizable Options: Feel free to add toppings like nuts or swap out the dark chocolate for milk chocolate to suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
To make these millionaire brownies successfully, you will need some essential tools in your kitchen arsenal.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Electric mixer or whisk
- 9×9 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Saucepan
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without any spills.
- Electric mixer or whisk: Helps achieve a smooth batter by blending ingredients quickly and efficiently.
- 9×9 inch baking pan: Provides the perfect size for evenly baked brownies.
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 Layer
- 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)
- 1/2 tsp fine salt (3g)
- 2 large eggs, room temperature (112g)
- 1/4 cup vegetable or canola oil (55g)
For the Ganache Topping
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (55g)
- 2 Tbsp water (30g)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste (4g)
- 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)
- (Optional) 1 Tbsp light corn syrup – optional (20g)
- 1/4 tsp fine salt (2g)
- Flakey sea salt – garnish
How to Make Millionaire Brownies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking pan by lining it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Shortbread Crust
In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine 2/3 cup sweetened condensed milk, 1/4 cup unsalted butter, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons corn syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
2. Mix well until smooth.
3. In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup flour and 1/4 cup powdered sugar. Gradually mix these dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully combined.
4. Spread this mixture evenly in your prepared pan.
Step 3: Bake the Shortbread Layer
Bake the shortbread layer in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the brownie layer.
Step 4: Make the Brownie Batter
In a large bowl:
1. Cream together ½ cup unsalted butter with 1½ cups granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add in the eggs one at a time while mixing well after each addition. Incorporate vegetable oil and vanilla extract.
3. In separate bowls, combine remaining dry ingredients—¾ cup flour, cocoa powder, and salt—then gradually fold them into the wet mixture until just combined.
Step 5: Assemble & Bake
Pour the brownie batter over your cooled shortbread crust in the pan. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
Step 6: Prepare Ganache Topping
While brownies bake:
In a saucepan over low heat:
– Combine heavy cream and dark chocolate chips until melted. Stir in melted butter and corn syrup if using until smooth.
Let ganache cool slightly before pouring it over baked brownies once they have cooled completely.
Step 7: Chill & Serve
Sprinkle flakey sea salt on top before refrigerating for about an hour. Cut into squares and serve! Enjoy your delicious millionaire brownies!
How to Serve Millionaire Brownies
Serving Millionaire Brownies can elevate any dessert table or gathering. With their rich layers of caramel and chocolate ganache, they are sure to impress everyone. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.
With a Scoop of Ice Cream
- Vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the brownies’ richness, providing a creamy contrast.
Hot Fudge Drizzle
- A warm drizzle of hot fudge adds extra chocolatey goodness that chocolate lovers will adore.
Whipped Cream Topping
- Light and airy whipped cream balances the dense texture of the brownies, creating a delightful harmony.
Fresh Berries
- Serve with strawberries or raspberries for a fresh and tart flavor that complements the sweetness.
Coffee or Espresso
- Pairing these brownies with a cup of coffee enhances their taste, making for an indulgent afternoon treat.
Flaky Sea Salt Garnish
- Sprinkling flaky sea salt on top enhances the flavors and adds a gourmet touch to each bite.
How to Perfect Millionaire Brownies
Creating perfect Millionaire Brownies requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for delicious results every time.
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring your butter and eggs are at room temperature helps create a smoother batter.
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Sift Cocoa Powder: Sifting removes lumps and leads to a more even distribution in your brownie batter.
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Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mixing just until combined keeps your brownies tender instead of tough.
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Cool Before Cutting: Allowing brownies to cool completely before cutting helps maintain their shape and prevents crumbling.
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Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add nuts or different types of chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor variations.
Best Side Dishes for Millionaire Brownies
Pairing side dishes with your Millionaire Brownies can enhance the overall dessert experience. Here are some tasty options:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic choice that adds creaminess to the rich brownies.
- Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce amplifies the brownie experience.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances the sweetness.
- Caramel Sauce: Add more caramel on top for those who crave extra sweetness.
- Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of nutty granola offers crunch that contrasts beautifully with soft brownies.
- Espresso or Coffee: A strong coffee accentuates the cocoa flavor, making it perfect for adults.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Creamy peanut butter spread on top adds richness and flavor depth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your Millionaire Brownies even more delicious. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the chilling step: Not letting the caramel layer cool before adding chocolate can lead to a messy result. Allow it to set in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
- Underbaking the brownies: If you take them out too soon, they won’t have the right texture. Bake until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold butter and eggs can affect the batter’s consistency. Always use room-temperature ingredients for better mixing and texture.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make your brownies dense and tough. Stir just until combined to keep them soft and chewy.
- Ignoring salt: Salt enhances flavor significantly. Don’t skip it, as it balances the sweetness of your millionaire brownies.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Millionaire brownies will last up to 5 days.
Freezing Millionaire Brownies
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Millionaire Brownies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 10-15 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid for even warming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Millionaire Brownies.
How do I enhance the flavor of Millionaire Brownies?
Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans can provide a delightful crunch alongside the rich layers.
Can I customize my Millionaire Brownies?
Absolutely! You can add different types of chocolate chips or experiment with flavored extracts such as almond or hazelnut.
What is the best way to slice Millionaire Brownies?
For clean cuts, chill them thoroughly, then use a sharp knife dipped in hot water between slices.
How should I store leftover Millionaire Brownies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Yes, feel free to mix dark, milk, or even white chocolate for varied flavors in your millionaire brownies.
Final Thoughts
These Millionaire Brownies are not only rich and decadent but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with nuts, various chocolates, or even flavored toppings. Try this recipe for a sweet treat that will surely impress your family and friends!
Millionaire Brownies
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 16 1x
Description
Indulge in the heavenly layers of Millionaire Brownies, where a buttery shortbread crust meets gooey caramel and rich chocolate ganache. This irresistible dessert is perfect for any occasion, elevating your gatherings with its decadent flavors and stunning presentation. Whether you’re a novice baker or an experienced chef, these brownies are easy to make and customize, allowing you to impress family and friends effortlessly. With each bite, experience the perfect balance of sweetness and richness that makes these brownies a true delight.
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into chunks
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 Tbsp light corn syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
- 1/2 tsp fine salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 tsp fine salt
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips, chopped
- 1/2 tsp fine salt
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/4 cup vegetable or canola oil
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 Tbsp water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream, room temperature
- 2/3 cup dark chocolate chips
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 Tbsp light corn syrup – optional
- 1/4 tsp fine salt
- Flaky sea salt – garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, unsalted butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Incorporate 1 cup of flour and powdered sugar until fully combined. Spread this mixture evenly in your prepared pan and bake for 15 minutes.
- In a large bowl, cream together 1/2 cup unsalted butter and 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs one at a time while mixing well after each addition. Incorporate vegetable oil and vanilla extract.
- In separate bowls, combine 3/4 cup flour, cocoa powder, and remaining salt, then gradually fold into the wet mixture until just combined. Pour the brownie batter over the cooled shortbread crust in the pan.
- Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt heavy cream with dark chocolate chips. Stir in melted butter and corn syrup until smooth. Pour ganache over cooled brownies and sprinkle with flaky sea salt before chilling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie (70g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
