Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering journey that will transform your ordinary dessert experience into an extraordinary culinary adventure! This Bourbon Pecan Millionaires Shortbread isn't just a recipe - it's a luxurious symphony of buttery shortbread, rich caramel-like filling, and bourbon-infused decadence that will make your taste buds dance with pure delight. Whether you're a dessert connoisseur or a weekend baker looking to impress, this Scottish-inspired treat promises to elevate your baking game and leave your guests absolutely speechless.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: Scottish
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the chopped pecans gently using a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating a smooth layer. Use the back of a spatula or your fingers to ensure it's packed tightly.
- Bake the shortbread base in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking.
- While the shortbread is baking, prepare the filling. In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, bourbon, and a pinch of salt. Stir continuously until warmed through, about 5 minutes.
- Once the shortbread base is done baking, remove it from the oven and pour the bourbon mixture evenly over the hot shortbread layer. Spread it gently to ensure even coverage.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly bubbly around the edges.
- While the filling is baking, melt the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted.
- Once the baking time is complete, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Then, drizzle the melted chocolate over the top of the filling, spreading it evenly with a spatula if desired.
- Allow the entire dessert to cool completely in the pan at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set the chocolate and filling.
- Once chilled, lift the shortbread out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into squares or bars, and serve. Enjoy your Bourbon Pecan Millionaires Shortbread!
Tips
- Temperature is key: Ensure your butter is truly softened but not melted for the perfect shortbread texture.
- Don't rush the creaming process: Spend 3-5 minutes creaming butter and sugar to incorporate air and create a light base.
- Use high-quality bourbon for the most robust flavor - a good bourbon can transform the entire dessert.
- Watch your shortbread carefully while baking to prevent over-browning. Golden edges are what you're looking for.
- Allow sufficient cooling time between layers to ensure clean, crisp layers and easy cutting.
- For clean cuts, use a sharp knife heated under hot water and wiped dry between slices.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days for maximum freshness and flavor preservation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 376kcal
Carbohydrates: 48g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 40mg
