Millionaire Brownies

These Millionaire Brownies are a delightful dessert that combines a buttery shortbread crust with layers of rich caramel and silky chocolate ganache. Perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy at home, these brownies bring a touch of luxury to any occasion. Their unique blend of textures and flavors makes them irresistible to chocolate lovers and dessert aficionados alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of caramel and chocolate creates an indulgent taste experience that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can whip up these millionaire brownies in no time.
• Versatile Dessert: These brownies are perfect for parties, potlucks, or as a special treat for yourself. They pair wonderfully with coffee or ice cream.
• Stunning Presentation: The layered look not only tastes amazing but also looks impressive when served, making them great for impressing guests.
• Family-Friendly Recipe: Kids and adults alike will love the rich flavors and chewy textures, making it a hit for everyone.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools and ingredients. Having everything ready will make your brownie-making experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×9 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Saucepan
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×9 inch baking pan: This specific size ensures even cooking and helps achieve the perfect brownie thickness.
• Electric mixer or whisk: A good mixer helps incorporate air into the batter for lightness while ensuring all ingredients blend well.
• Rubber spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of bowls, ensuring no ingredients are left behind.

Ingredients

These millionaire brownies are made with a buttery shortbread crust and topped with decadent layers of caramel and chocolate ganache.

For the Shortbread Crust:

• 2/3 cup (half a 14 oz. can) sweetened condensed milk (200g)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into chunks (56g)
• 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar (50g)
• 2 Tbsp light corn syrup (30g)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste (4g)
• 1/2 tsp fine salt (3g)

For the Brownie Layer:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature (113g)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (125g)
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar (30g)
• 1/4 tsp fine salt (1g)
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (300g)
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (95g)
• 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted (65g)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (65g)
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips, chopped (90g)
• 1/2 tsp fine salt (3g)
• 2 large eggs, room temperature (112g)

For the Ganache Topping:

• 1/4 cup vegetable or canola oil (55g)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (55g)
• 2 Tbsp water (30g)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste (4g)
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream, room temperature (120g)
• 2/3 cup dark chocolate chips (60-65% cocoa) (120g)
• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature (30g)
• (Optional) – 1 Tbsp light corn syrup – optional (20g)
• 1/4 tsp fine salt (2g)
• Flakey sea salt – garnish

How to Make Millionaire Brownies

Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, chunks of unsalted butter, light brown sugar, light corn syrup, vanilla extract, and fine salt.
3. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add the flour until fully incorporated.
5. Pour this mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
6. Bake for 20 minutes or until lightly golden.

Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter

1. In another bowl, cream together room temperature butter and granulated sugar until fluffy.
2. Add in eggs one at a time while mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in vegetable oil and vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, dark chocolate chips, and salt.
5. Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined.

Step 3: Bake the Brownies

1. Pour brownie batter over baked shortbread crust in the pan.
2. Bake for an additional 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs.

Step 4: Prepare the Ganache Topping

1. In a saucepan over low heat, combine heavy whipping cream with dark chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
2. Add in melted butter and stir well; if using corn syrup for extra shine, mix it in now.

Step 5: Assemble the Millionaire Brownies

1. Once brownies have cooled slightly after baking, pour ganache evenly over the top layer.
2. Let cool completely before slicing into squares.
3. Garnish with flakey sea salt before serving to enhance flavor.

Enjoy your delicious homemade millionaire brownies!

How to Serve Millionaire Brownies

Serving millionaire brownies can elevate any occasion, whether it’s a casual get-together or a formal event. Here are some delightful ways to present this sweet treat.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve your brownies alongside fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a refreshing contrast. The acidity of the berries balances the richness of the brownies.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Pairing millionaire brownies with a scoop of vanilla or salted caramel ice cream creates an indulgent dessert experience. The cold ice cream complements the warm brownies perfectly.

Drizzled with Extra Caramel Sauce

• For those who can’t get enough sweetness, drizzle additional caramel sauce over each brownie piece. This adds an extra layer of flavor and makes for a beautiful presentation.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Lighten up the rich flavors by adding a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top. You can even sprinkle it with cocoa powder or flaked sea salt for added flair.

Served with Coffee or Espresso

• Enhance your dessert experience by serving millionaire brownies with a cup of coffee or espresso. The bitterness of the coffee contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the brownies.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Arrange your millionaire brownies on a dessert platter alongside other treats like cookies, fudge, and mini pastries. This variety will surely please your guests.

Save this!

How to Perfect Millionaire Brownies

Creating the ultimate millionaire brownies takes some attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Sift Your Cocoa Powder: Sifting helps eliminate lumps in cocoa powder, leading to a smoother brownie batter.
• Chill the Caramel Layer: Allow the caramel layer to cool slightly before adding chocolate ganache on top; this helps prevent mixing.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your brownies towards the end of baking time. They should be set but still soft in the center for that gooey texture.
• Let Them Cool Completely: Allow your brownies to cool fully in the pan before cutting them into squares for clean edges.
• Garnish Thoughtfully: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top enhances flavor and gives your brownies a gourmet touch.

Best Side Dishes for Millionaire Brownies

Pairing side dishes with millionaire brownies can enhance your dessert experience. Below are some great options to consider.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances sweetness.
2. Chocolate Mousse: Rich and airy, chocolate mousse offers contrasting textures that complement brownies well.
3. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides a refreshing palate cleanser after indulging in decadent desserts.
4. Nutty Trail Mix: A crunchy mix of nuts and dried fruits adds texture and serves as a great snack while enjoying your sweets.
5. Coffee or Espresso: Serving strong coffee or espresso enhances the chocolate flavor in the brownies.
6. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites add another layer of flavor without overwhelming sweetness.
7. Caramel Sauce Dip: For an extra indulgent option, serve a small bowl of caramel sauce for dipping each brownie bite!
8. Pecan Pie Bars: These bars offer another rich dessert option that pairs wonderfully with millionaire brownies’ flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making millionaire brownies can be a delightful experience, but common mistakes can ruin the fun. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using cold ingredients – Using cold eggs or butter can affect the texture of your brownies. Always ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature before mixing.
• Overmixing the batter – Overmixing can lead to dense brownies. Mix just until combined for a fudgy texture.
• Skipping the salt – Salt enhances flavor! Don’t skip it; it balances the sweetness and elevates the taste of your millionaire brownies.
• Not measuring accurately – Baking is precise! Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure you get the right amounts of each ingredient.
• Ignoring cooling time – Cutting into your brownies too soon can lead to a gooey mess. Let them cool completely for the best results.

Save this!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Millionaire Brownies

• Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Millionaire Brownies

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Warm for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat!
• Stovetop – Place in a covered skillet over low heat for a few minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making millionaire brownies that might help you in your baking journey.

What are Millionaire Brownies?

Millionaire brownies are a delicious dessert featuring layers of shortbread crust, caramel, and chocolate ganache, creating an indulgent treat.

Can I customize my Millionaire Brownies?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, different types of chocolate, or even flavored extracts like almond for a unique twist.

How do I make my brownies more fudgy?

To achieve fudgier millionaire brownies, reduce the baking time slightly and avoid overmixing the batter.

Can I use different types of chocolate?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with milk chocolate or white chocolate chips if you prefer a sweeter flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

These millionaire brownies are an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion. Their rich layers and buttery crust offer endless customization options. Try adding your favorite nuts or drizzling caramel on top for an extra touch. Enjoy baking this delightful recipe!