Raspberry Caramel Millionaires Shortbread Recipe
If you have a sweet tooth and a love for decadent desserts, you are going to adore this Raspberry Caramel Millionaires Shortbread. This delightful treat layers a crisp, buttery almond shortbread base with a luscious raspberry jelly, topped with creamy vegan caramel and smooth chocolate. The final touch of freeze-dried raspberries adds a burst of tartness and a lovely pop of color. Combining fresh flavors with indulgent textures, Raspberry Caramel Millionaires Shortbread is the perfect dessert to share with friends or enjoy as a special homemade treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Raspberry Caramel Millionaires Shortbread recipe lies in its straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role, creating layers with distinct tastes and textures — from the nutty, crumbly base to the sweet and tangy raspberry jelly, all wrapped up in a velvety caramel and finished with chocolate.
- 1 cup gluten-free all purpose flour: A light and neutral base for the shortbread; plain flour works well if gluten is not a concern.
- 1 cup ground almonds: Adds nutty flavor and a tender crumb texture to the base.
- 4 tablespoons vegan butter: Essential for that rich, buttery shortbread texture and taste.
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup: Provides natural sweetness and a subtle depth to the dough.
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt: Balances all the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- 4 cups fresh raspberries: The star ingredient of the jelly layer with vibrant color and fresh tartness.
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup: Sweetens the raspberry jelly without overpowering its brightness.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds acidity, which brightens the raspberry flavor beautifully.
- 2 ½ teaspoons agar-agar powder: A vegan gelatin alternative to set the raspberry jelly layer firmly.
- 1 cup cashew butter: The creamy base for the caramel, bringing richness and smoothness.
- ¾ cup pure maple syrup: Sweetens the caramel with its characteristic deep flavor.
- 4 tablespoons coconut oil (solid): Adds silkiness and helps the caramel set nicely.
- 2 tablespoons full fat canned coconut milk (or coconut cream): Enhances creaminess and adds a subtle tropical note.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the caramel with warm aromatic undertones.
- 1 teaspoon sea salt: Creates a lovely salted caramel balance.
- 7 oz vegan chocolate: Melted to create the decadent top layer, sealing in all the flavors.
- ¼ cup freeze dried raspberries (optional): For a decorative and flavorful finishing touch on top.
How to Make Raspberry Caramel Millionaires Shortbread
Step 1: Preparing the Shortbread Base
Start by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F) and greasing an 8-inch square pan. In your food processor, combine gluten-free flour, ground almonds, vegan butter, maple syrup, and a pinch of sea salt until the mixture clumps together into a dough. Press this dough evenly into the pan’s base and prick it gently with a fork to prevent bubbling. Bake for 15-18 minutes until it’s a light golden brown. Once baked, let it cool down completely — a firm base is the foundation for your Raspberry Caramel Millionaires Shortbread.
Step 2: Creating the Raspberry Jelly Layer
While your shortbread cools, turn your attention to the raspberry layer. Heat fresh raspberries in a saucepan over medium heat until they break down into a jammy consistency. Blend them smoothly and strain the mixture to remove seeds for a silky texture. Return the puree to the pan and stir in maple syrup, lemon juice, and agar-agar powder. Bring to a boil, then simmer for three minutes while whisking continuously. Afterward, let it cool slightly before pouring it over the shortbread base. Pop it in the freezer for 30 minutes to set firmly before moving on.
Step 3: Whipping Up the Vegan Caramel
The caramel layer is where creamy meets dreamy. Combine cashew butter, maple syrup, solid coconut oil, canned coconut milk, vanilla extract, and sea salt in your food processor. Blend until the mixture becomes smooth and silky. This luscious caramel gets poured right over the set raspberry jelly. Spread out evenly and return the pan to the freezer for a minimum of 4 hours — or even better, overnight — to lock in that perfect texture.
Step 4: Topping with Chocolate and Final Touches
Once your caramel has set nicely, it’s time to add the crowning glory: melted vegan chocolate. Gently melt two-thirds of the chocolate using a double boiler, then stir in the remainder until fully melted. This method ensures a glossy, even finish. Spread the chocolate over the caramel layer and sprinkle freeze-dried raspberries on top if you want an extra pop of tart flavor and crunch. Chill in the fridge for 15 minutes until the chocolate is firm enough to slice.
Step 5: Cutting and Serving
For clean slices, heat a sharp knife in boiling water, wipe it dry, and cut through the layered bars gently. The warm knife glides through the set layers without cracking or sticking. This simple trick makes presenting your Raspberry Caramel Millionaires Shortbread look absolutely irresistible.
How to Serve Raspberry Caramel Millionaires Shortbread
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freeze-dried raspberries, a light dusting of powdered sugar, or even a few fresh raspberry halves can add that extra special touch when serving your Raspberry Caramel Millionaires Shortbread. These details not only enhance the visual appeal but intensify the fruity aroma and flavor with every bite.
Side Dishes
Pair this dessert with a dollop of vegan whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla coconut ice cream to complement the tartness and richness. For an elegant twist, serve alongside a cup of freshly brewed espresso or a fragrant cup of herbal tea like chamomile or mint, which beautifully balance the dessert’s sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For celebrations, cut the Raspberry Caramel Millionaires Shortbread into small bite-sized squares and serve on a tiered stand alongside other treats for a dazzling dessert spread. You can also create a layered dessert jar by breaking pieces of the shortbread and layering with whipped coconut cream and more fresh raspberries for an easy, crowd-pleasing parfait.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Raspberry Caramel Millionaires Shortbread keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-5 days. Being chilled helps maintain the firmness of each layer while preserving the fresh raspberry flavor.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this sumptuous dessert later, freeze any unused portions in a sealed container. Frozen Raspberry Caramel Millionaires Shortbread can be stored for up to one month without losing its delightful texture or flavor. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating
This treat is best enjoyed chilled. However, if you prefer a softer texture, allow the slices to come to room temperature for 15-20 minutes before eating. Avoid microwaving as it can affect the delicate layers and cause the chocolate to melt unevenly.
FAQs
Can I use other types of berries instead of raspberries?
Absolutely! Blueberries or blackberries can make interesting alternatives, but they may change the color and slightly alter the tartness of the jelly layer. Raspberry is classic, but feel free to experiment to suit your taste.
Is the caramel layer really vegan?
Yes, this recipe uses cashew butter, coconut ingredients, and maple syrup to create a rich, creamy, and entirely plant-based caramel substitute that rivals traditional dairy caramel in flavor and texture.
What if I don’t have agar-agar powder?
Agar-agar is vital for setting the raspberry jelly vegan-style. If you cannot find it, you can try pectin or a vegan gelatin substitute, but note the texture and setting time might vary.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely. Using gluten-free all-purpose flour along with ground almonds makes this shortbread suitable for gluten-sensitive diets without sacrificing taste or texture.
How do I avoid the raspberry seeds in the jelly layer?
Blending the cooked raspberries and then straining the mixture through a fine sieve or muslin cloth removes most seeds, giving you a smooth, velvety jelly that’s pleasant to bite into.
Final Thoughts
Making Raspberry Caramel Millionaires Shortbread is truly a labor of love, but the reward is a dessert that delights every sense. With its gorgeous layered look and perfectly balanced flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Trust me, once you try this dreamy treat, you’ll want to make it again and again for family, friends, or just because you deserve a slice of something extraordinary.
Print
Raspberry Caramel Millionaires Shortbread Recipe
- Total Time: 5 hours 55 minutes (includes chilling times)
- Yield: 16 squares 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A deliciously rich and indulgent Raspberry Caramel Millionaires Shortbread made with a gluten-free shortbread base, fresh raspberry jelly, creamy cashew caramel, and finished with a smooth vegan chocolate topping. This vegan and gluten-free treat is perfect for special occasions or as a decadent snack.
Ingredients
Shortbread Base
- 1 cup gluten-free all purpose flour (or plain flour if not gluten-free)
- 1 cup ground almonds
- 4 tablespoons vegan butter
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
Raspberry Jelly Layer
- 4 cups fresh raspberries
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 ½ teaspoons agar-agar powder
Cashew Caramel Layer
- 1 cup cashew butter
- ¾ cup pure maple syrup
- 4 tablespoons coconut oil (solid)
- 2 tablespoons full fat canned coconut milk (or coconut cream)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
Chocolate Topping
- 7 oz vegan chocolate
- ¼ cup freeze dried raspberries (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Lightly grease the base and sides of a square 8″ pan with some oil or vegan butter, then line with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Make Shortbread Dough: In your food processor, combine the gluten-free flour, ground almonds, vegan butter, maple syrup, and sea salt. Process until the ingredients stick together and form a cohesive dough.
- Press Dough into Pan: Evenly press the dough into the base of the prepared pan and smooth it out with a spatula or flat-bottomed glass. Use a fork to gently prick the dough several times to prevent bubbling during baking.
- Bake the Base: Bake the shortbread base for 15-18 minutes until it is lightly browned. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely to room temperature before adding the next layers.
- Prepare Raspberry Jelly: Place raspberries in a saucepan and heat over medium heat for about 10 minutes until the berries break down and become jammy. Transfer to a blender and blitz until smooth. Strain the mixture through a sieve to remove seeds, then return to the pan.
- Add Jelly Ingredients and Simmer: Add maple syrup, lemon juice, and agar-agar powder to the raspberry puree. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 3 minutes while whisking continuously. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly for about 10 minutes.
- Set Raspberry Jelly Layer: Pour the slightly cooled jelly evenly over the cooled shortbread base. Place the pan in the freezer and chill for 30 minutes until the jelly is set.
- Prepare Cashew Caramel: In the food processor, combine the cashew butter, maple syrup, solid coconut oil, coconut milk, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Blitz until the mixture is smooth, silky, and creamy.
- Add Caramel Layer: Pour the cashew caramel evenly over the set raspberry jelly layer. Use a spatula to smooth it into an even layer. Return the pan to the freezer for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set.
- Melt and Spread Chocolate: Melt two-thirds of the vegan chocolate over a double boiler. Remove from heat and stir in the remaining third until completely melted and glossy. Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the set caramel layer and sprinkle with freeze-dried raspberries if using.
- Chill to Set Chocolate: Place the pan in the fridge for 15 minutes to allow the chocolate to firm up.
- Slice and Serve: To cut, heat a sharp knife by placing it in boiling water, then wipe dry and gently slice through the layers. The heat helps the knife glide smoothly through the chocolate and caramel without cracking.
- Store: Store the millionaire shortbread slices in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days. You can also freeze leftovers and thaw before serving.
Notes
- To ensure the best texture, use fully cooled shortbread base before layering the jelly.
- Freeze-dried raspberries add a lovely crunch and tartness but are optional.
- Use a high-quality vegan chocolate for optimal flavor and smooth melting.
- The recipe is naturally gluten-free if gluten-free flour is used; substitute with plain flour if gluten is not a concern.
- Heating the knife between cuts prevents cracking and ensures clean slices.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking, Freezing, Melting
- Cuisine: Vegan, Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (approx. 1/16th of recipe)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 90 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: millionaires shortbread, vegan dessert, gluten-free dessert, raspberry caramel shortbread, vegan caramel, cashew caramel, raspberry jelly, vegan chocolate dessert
