Irresistible Millionaire Shortbread Xmas Trees Heavenly Treats
Oh, the joy of the holiday season! I can still remember the aroma of sugar cookies baking in my grandmother’s kitchen, the clattering of festive decorations, and those cozy evenings spent wrapping gifts by the fire. And while I adore those classic treats, there’s something irresistibly enchanting about creating new traditions. Enter my Millionaire Shortbread Christmas Trees—a delightful twist on the traditional millionaire shortbread, infused with holiday spirit and shaped like adorable little trees!
These treats are perfect for holiday gatherings, whimsical dessert tables, or even as a sweet surprise for your loved ones. With their buttery shortbread base, rich caramel layer, and decadent chocolate topping, every bite feels like a warm hug. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your favorite festive tunes, and let’s make some holiday magic together!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to make, so you can whip them up even on busy days.
- Perfect for sharing at parties or giving as charming gifts.
- Totally customizable with different toppings or decorations.
- They look gorgeous and taste divine—seriously, a total crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful treats:
- For the Shortbread Base:
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- For the Caramel Layer:
- 1 cup (200g) dark brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (120ml) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
- For the Chocolate Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups (250g) dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For Decoration:
- Colored sprinkles or edible glitter for that holiday cheer!
Tip: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for that perfect creamy texture!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we have everything we need, let’s dive right into the fun part!
- Make the Shortbread Base: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until it’s fluffy and pale. This may take about 3-5 minutes—patience pays off here!
- Add in the flour and salt; mix until just combined. Be gentle—overmixing will make your shortbread tough instead of delightfully crumbly.
- Press the mixture into a greased and lined 9×9 inch (22×22 cm) baking pan. You want it even and smooth. Prick the surface with a fork to allow steam to escape while baking.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. The smell will be divine, filling your kitchen with buttery goodness!
- Once baked, let it cool in the pan while you prepare the caramel.
- Prepare the Caramel Layer: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. It’ll transform into a rich, golden caramel that’s so luscious!
- Allow the caramel to boil for about 5 minutes, continuing to stir to prevent sticking. Once it thickens slightly, remove from the heat and pour it over the cooled shortbread. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
- Let the caramel set at room temperature while you melt the chocolate.
- Melt the Chocolate Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped chocolate and vanilla extract. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and melted. This will be your treat’s crowning touch!
- Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer, spreading it out for a smooth finish. Don’t forget to lick the spoon—it’s a must!
- Now comes the fun part: sprinkle your festive decorations on top before the chocolate sets. You can go wild with colored sprinkles or dust it with edible glitter to really bring that holiday cheer!
- Refrigerate for about 2 hours or until the chocolate is completely set. Then, cut into tree shapes using a cookie cutter for that adorable holiday touch!
Pro Tips & Variations
Feeling creative? Here are some fun ways to switch up this recipe:
- Spiced Caramel: Add a pinch of sea salt or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the caramel for an added flavor kick!
- Chocolate Variations: Try using milk chocolate for a sweeter topping, or white chocolate for a beautiful contrast!
- Nuts & Fruits: Top with chopped nuts or dried fruits for an extra crunch and a dose of festiveness.
- Dietary Swaps: Use dairy-free butter and chocolate to make this treat vegan-friendly.
Serving Suggestions
These Millionaire Shortbread Christmas Trees are as versatile as they are delicious! Serve them alongside a steaming cup of cocoa or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. You could even pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert platter. And how cute would they look on a festive dessert table? Just imagine your guests delighting as they indulge in these merry little treats!
Storage Tips
To keep your millionaires fresh and tasty, here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerate: Place the cut squares in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. If they last that long!
- Freeze: You can also freeze them! Just wrap them well in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to 3 months frozen. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight.
- Reheat: If you prefer them slightly warm, pop one in the microwave for about 10 seconds—just enough to get that chocolate gorgeous and melty!
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free flour for the shortbread base?
Absolutely! Just swap in a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, and you’ll still get that rich, crumbly texture.
What can I do if my caramel isn’t thickening?
If your caramel looks a bit runny, just return it to the heat and let it gently simmer for a few more minutes, stirring continuously. It should thicken up nicely!
Can I make these in advance?
Yes, these treats can be made a few days ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor experience!
Is the chocolate topping necessary?
While it adds a delicious richness and completes the look, you can absolutely skip it if you’d like a lighter treat. Just enjoy the shortbread and caramel layers!
Conclusion
There you have it—my Millionaire Shortbread Christmas Trees that are sure to bring joy and sweetness to your holiday festivities! I truly hope these treats become a delightful part of your celebrations, just like they are in mine. If you give this recipe a try, please let me know how it turns out in the comments! I’d love to hear your thoughts and any fun variations you try. May your holidays be filled with warmth, laughter, and plenty of delicious goodies!
Irresistible Millionaire Shortbread Xmas Trees Heavenly Treats
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
Description
Delight in millionaire shortbread xmas trees a heavenly festive treat perfect for your holiday celebrations Taste the magic of this indulgent dessert
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
Delightfully festive Millionaire Shortbread Christmas Trees shaped like little trees, infused with holiday spirit and perfect for gatherings.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: Holiday
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24 servings
- Calories: 250 calories
- Sugar: 20g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
Keywords: Millionaire Shortbread, Christmas treats, holiday desserts, festive recipes