Millionaire Brownies

These Millionaire Brownies are the ultimate indulgence, combining a buttery shortbread crust with rich caramel and smooth chocolate ganache. Perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to cozy nights in, these brownies are sure to impress with their luxurious layers and delightful flavor. Their unique combination of textures makes them a standout dessert that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Layers: Experience the perfect balance of buttery shortbread, luscious caramel, and chocolate ganache.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip these up without any stress.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for celebrations, potlucks, or simply enjoying at home.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves brownies, and these take them to the next level!
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or switch up the chocolate for a personal touch.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your millionaire brownies, gather your essential tools to streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking pan: This size ensures even baking for your millionaire brownies.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients smoothly without mess.
• Whisk: Helps incorporate air into batters for a lighter texture.
• Spatula: Perfect for folding and spreading mixtures evenly in your pan.

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)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (55g)
• 2 Tbsp water (30g)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste (4g)

For the 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)
• 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). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Prepare the Shortbread Crust

In a saucepan over low heat:
1. Combine sweetened condensed milk, unsalted butter chunks, light brown sugar, light corn syrup, vanilla extract, and fine salt.
2. Stir until the mixture is well blended and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and set aside.

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine room temperature butter with all-purpose flour and powdered sugar.
2. Mix until crumbly but combined.
3. Press this mixture into the bottom of your prepared baking pan evenly.

Step 3: Bake the Shortbread Layer

Bake in your preheated oven for about 15 minutes until lightly golden. Allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the brownie batter.

Step 4: Make the Brownie Batter

In another bowl:
1. Whisk together granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, chopped dark chocolate chips, fine salt, eggs, vegetable oil, melted butter, water, and vanilla extract until combined but not overmixed.

Pour this batter over the cooled shortbread layer in the baking pan.

Step 5: Bake Again

Return to the oven and bake for an additional 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let it cool completely before adding ganache on top.

Step 6: Prepare the Ganache

In a saucepan:
1. Heat heavy whipping cream until just simmering.
2. Remove from heat and stir in dark chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
3. Add room temperature butter and optional corn syrup; mix well.

Pour this ganache over cooled brownies and sprinkle flakey sea salt on top for garnish.

Step 7: Chill & Serve

Refrigerate for at least an hour before cutting into squares. Enjoy these delicious millionaire brownies at any gathering!

How to Serve Millionaire Brownies

Millionaire brownies are a decadent treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

With Ice Cream

• Adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of warm millionaire brownies creates a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A warm drizzle of caramel sauce enhances the rich flavors and adds an extra layer of sweetness, making each bite irresistible.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream complements the chocolate and caramel layers beautifully, adding lightness to this indulgent treat.

Garnished with Flaky Sea Salt

• Sprinkling flaky sea salt on top balances the sweetness and brings out the rich chocolate flavor, enhancing the overall taste.

Served with Fresh Berries

• Fresh raspberries or strawberries provide a refreshing contrast to the rich brownie, cutting through the sweetness nicely.

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How to Perfect Millionaire Brownies

To achieve the best results with your millionaire brownies, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter that mixes well.
• Sift Cocoa Powder: Sifting cocoa powder removes lumps and ensures an even distribution throughout the brownie batter.
• Chill the Caramel Layer: Allowing your caramel layer to cool slightly before adding chocolate ganache helps it set properly without mixing.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your brownies during baking. They should be firm around the edges but slightly soft in the center for optimal texture.
• Let Them Cool Completely: Allow your millionaire brownies to cool fully before slicing. This will help achieve clean cuts and maintain all layers intact.
• Store Properly: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Millionaire Brownies

Pairing side dishes with millionaire brownies can enhance their flavor profile. Here are some delicious options!

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that complements the richness of brownies perfectly.
2. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances out the sweet flavors.
3. Coffee or Espresso: The bitterness of coffee pairs well with sweet desserts, enhancing their taste.
4. Chocolate Sauce: For chocolate lovers, drizzling additional chocolate sauce intensifies the brownie experience.
5. Caramel Sauce: Another layer of sweetness that pairs well with both chocolate and shortbread flavors.
6. Nutty Granola: Adding a crunchy element, nutty granola provides texture contrast while being a bit healthier.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Millionaire Brownies can be a delightful experience, but it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the outcome.

• Skipping the chilling step – Not allowing the caramel layer to cool properly can make it runny. Always chill the brownies before adding the chocolate ganache.
• Overmixing the batter – Overmixing can lead to dense brownies. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a lighter texture.
• Using cold ingredients – Cold eggs and butter can impact how well your brownies rise. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature.
• Not measuring accurately – Inaccurate measurements can ruin your recipe. Use a kitchen scale for precise amounts, especially for flour and sugar.
• Neglecting oven calibration – Every oven is different, which can affect baking time. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven’s temperature is accurate.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Millionaire Brownies

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Millionaire Brownies

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place brownies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat individual squares on low power for 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop – Use a non-stick pan over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm carefully to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Millionaire Brownies.

How do I make the best Millionaire Brownies?

To create the best Millionaire Brownies, follow the recipe closely and use quality ingredients like high-quality chocolate and fresh butter.

Can I customize my Millionaire Brownies?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, swap out chocolate types, or even include different flavors of extracts for a unique twist.

What makes Millionaire Brownies different from regular brownies?

Millionaire Brownies feature distinct layers: a buttery shortbread crust, creamy caramel, and rich chocolate ganache, setting them apart from regular brownies.

How long do Millionaire Brownies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge, they last about one week; in the freezer, they can last up to three months.

Final Thoughts

Millionaire Brownies are a decadent treat perfect for any occasion. Their combination of buttery shortbread, luscious caramel, and rich chocolate makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize these brownies with your favorite flavors or toppings to make them truly yours. Enjoy this heavenly dessert with friends and family!