Decadent Caramel Chocolate Squares
Indulge in these Decadent Caramel Chocolate Squares, a delightful treat that beautifully marries a buttery shortbread base with a luscious caramel filling, topped off with a rich layer of melted chocolate. This popular British confectionery is perfect for sharing during afternoon tea, at special gatherings, or simply enjoying with your morning coffee. Easy to make yet utterly delicious, these squares are sure to impress friends and family alike and can be easily transported for picnics or potlucks.
N/A
Servings
80
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
unsalted butter
3.5 ounces (softened, for the base)
granulated sugar
3 tablespoons (for the base)
cornflour
2 ounces (sifted)
plain flour
3 ounces (sifted)
unsalted butter
4.5 ounces (for the filling)
brown sugar
3 ounces (for the filling)
honey
2 tablespoons
sweetened condensed milk
14 ounces (1 can)
vanilla essence
1 teaspoon
dark chocolate
8 ounces (melted)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a mixing bowl, combine 3 1/2 ounces of softened butter and 3 tablespoons of sugar. Beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3
Sift in 2 ounces of cornflour and 3 ounces of plain flour, and mix until fully combined. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it briefly until it comes together.
4
Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a greased and lined 7” x 11” shallow cake tin, ensuring an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the base is firm and lightly golden.
5
While the base is baking, prepare the caramel filling. In a saucepan, combine 4 1/2 ounces of butter, 3 ounces of brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons of honey. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is combined.
6
Once combined, bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat. Allow it to simmer for 7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7
Remove the saucepan from heat, then carefully beat in a 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla essence until smooth.
8
Pour the caramel filling over the baked shortbread base, spreading it evenly. Return the tin to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes.
9
After baking, set the tin aside to cool completely at room temperature.
10
Once cooled, melt 8 ounces of chocolate and spread it evenly over the caramel layer. Allow the chocolate to set until firm.
11
Cut the cooled dessert into squares and store them in an airtight container or cookie tin at room temperature for optimal freshness.
Nutrition Information
5
Fat
8.4
Carbs
1.2
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Decadent Caramel Chocolate Squares?
They are a rich British confectionery featuring a buttery shortbread base, a thick caramel center, and a smooth chocolate topping.
What type of base does this recipe use?
This recipe uses a buttery shortbread base made from butter, sugar, cornflour, and plain flour.
What is the oven temperature for baking?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How long should the shortbread base bake initially?
The base should bake for 25 minutes or until it is firm and lightly golden.
What ingredients make up the caramel filling?
The caramel filling consists of butter, brown sugar, honey, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla essence.
How long should the caramel mixture simmer?
The mixture of butter, brown sugar, and honey should simmer for 7 minutes after reaching a boil.
When should the condensed milk be added?
Carefully beat in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla essence after removing the boiled caramel mixture from the heat.
Does the caramel layer need to be baked?
Yes, after pouring the filling over the base, return it to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes.
What size cake tin is required?
The recipe recommends using a greased and lined 7 inch by 11 inch shallow cake tin.
What kind of chocolate is used for the topping?
The recipe calls for 8 ounces of dark chocolate, though milk chocolate can be used if preferred.
How should I prepare the baking tin?
The tin should be both greased and lined with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the squares.
Can I use salted butter?
While the recipe specifies unsalted butter, you can use salted butter, but it may slightly alter the flavor profile.
How should I store these treats?
Store them in an airtight container or cookie tin at room temperature for optimal freshness.
Should I sift the flour?
Yes, sifting the cornflour and plain flour ensures a smooth dough without lumps.
Can I add vanilla to the caramel?
Yes, one teaspoon of vanilla essence is added to the caramel along with the condensed milk.
How long does the chocolate take to set?
The chocolate should be allowed to set until firm, which varies depending on room temperature but usually takes a few hours.
What is the role of cornflour in the base?
Cornflour helps give the shortbread a more tender and crumbly texture.
Can I substitute honey in the caramel?
You can substitute honey with golden syrup or light corn syrup if necessary.
What is the calorie count for a square?
Each square is estimated to have approximately 80 calories.
How much fat is in one serving?
One serving contains approximately 5 grams of fat.
Is there any fiber in these squares?
The recipe indicates there is no significant fiber content reported for this dish.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 10 main ingredients used across the base, filling, and topping.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, these are excellent for making a day in advance as it allows the layers to set properly.
How do I get clean edges when cutting?
Use a hot, dry knife and wipe it between each cut to get clean, professional-looking squares.
Can these be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 3 months; just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
What should I do if the caramel is too runny?
Ensure you simmer the caramel for the full 7 minutes and bake it for the additional 20 minutes to help it set.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, children typically love the combination of shortbread, caramel, and chocolate.
Can I use granulated sugar for the caramel?
The recipe calls for brown sugar in the caramel for a richer flavor, but granulated sugar could work in a pinch.
Are these squares suitable for afternoon tea?
Absolutely, they are a classic choice for British afternoon tea and special gatherings.
What if I don't have vanilla essence?
You can omit it or use vanilla extract, though the flavor might be slightly different.