MILLION DOLLAR BARS

Million Dollar Bars are a decadent dessert that lives up to their extravagant name. These bars are a delightful combination of buttery shortbread crust, rich caramel, and a generous layer of chocolate. Each bite is a luxurious experience, making them perfect for special occasions, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving something indulgent. Despite their name, you won’t need a million dollars to make them – just a few simple ingredients and a bit of time in the kitchen. Follow this recipe to create your own batch of Million Dollar Bars that are sure to impress anyone lucky enough to try them.

Million Dollar Bars

Ingredients:

For the crust:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• Pinch of salt

For the caramel layer:

• 1 cup caramel candies (about 20 pieces), unwrapped
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the chocolate layer:

• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. To make the crust, in a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the flour and salt, and mix until well combined and crumbly.
3. Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to pack it down firmly.
4. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
5. While the crust is cooling, make the caramel layer. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramel candies, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the mixture is melted and smooth.
6. Pour the caramel mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Allow it to set slightly while you prepare the chocolate layer.
7. In another microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
8. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
9. Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is set.
10. Once set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Place them on a cutting board and cut into squares or bars using a sharp knife.
11. Serve and enjoy these decadent Million Dollar Bars!
12. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

These Million Dollar Bars sound absolutely delicious! Here are some additional tips and variations to consider when making them:

1. **Additions to the Crust**: Consider adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the crust mixture for a hint of chocolate flavor. You can also mix in finely chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for added texture and flavor.

2. **Caramel Flavor Enhancements**: For a richer caramel flavor, you can add a splash of caramel extract or a tablespoon of caramel sauce to the caramel layer mixture. This will intensify the caramel flavor and add depth to the bars.

3. **Toppings**: After spreading the melted chocolate over the caramel layer, consider sprinkling some sea salt or chopped nuts on top for added texture and visual appeal. You can also drizzle additional caramel sauce or melted white chocolate over the bars for extra decadence.

4. **Chocolate Variations**: Instead of using semisweet chocolate chips, you can use milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips for a different flavor profile. You can also add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the melted chocolate mixture to enhance the chocolate flavor.

5. **Custom Shapes**: While the recipe suggests cutting the bars into squares, you can get creative with the shapes. Use cookie cutters to cut the bars into fun shapes like hearts, stars, or even holiday-themed shapes for special occasions.

6. **Freezing**: These bars freeze well, making them a great make-ahead dessert option. Once the bars are fully set, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

7. **Presentation**: Consider serving these bars with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch. You can also garnish each bar with a small piece of caramel candy or a chocolate-covered espresso bean for a decorative finish.

Enjoy making and indulging in these decadent Million Dollar Bars! They’re sure to be a hit with friends and family alike.