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If you’re a fan of the classic Millionaire’s Shortbread but find traditional caramel-based treats too sweet, this Matcha Millionaire’s Shortbread is the perfect balance of indulgence and sophistication.
What is Millionaire’s Shortbread?
Millionaire’s Shortbread is a decadent three-layer treat made of buttery shortbread, gooey caramel, and a smooth chocolate topping. It is believed to have originated in Scotland but became widely popular in the UK, Australia, and beyond. The name “Millionaire’s Shortbread” suggests luxury and indulgence—a step above regular shortbread due to the added layers of rich caramel and chocolate. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a truly indulgent dessert, worthy of its “millionaire” title.
This matcha-infused version offers a modern twist on the classic, balancing the richness with matcha’s slight bitterness and enhancing the texture with crispy Rice Krispies in the caramel layer.
Why you’ll love this recipe
Easy caramel hack – Using store-bought chewy caramel eliminates the tricky process of making caramel from scratch.
Balanced sweetness – Matcha’s natural bitterness keeps the caramel from being overly sweet.
Crunchy & buttery texture – Buttery matcha shortbread, caramel with some Rice Krispies crunch, and smooth chocolate create an irresistible bite.
Visually stunning – The contrast of vibrant green matcha and dark chocolate makes this an eye-catching treat.
Matcha Millionaire’s Shortbread
Ingredients
Matcha shortbread:
- 113 g unsalted butter softened
- 120 g all-purpose flour
- ⅛ tsp table salt
- 25 g powdered sugar
- 2 Tbsp matcha powder
Salted caramel crunch:
- 308 g Kraft chewy caramels or Kraft caramel bits, Werther's chewy caramel
- 57 g unsalted butter
- ¼ tsp table salt
- 58 g Rice Krispies cereal
Chocolate topping:
- 224 g dark-chocolate I use 60% dark chocolate.
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions
Prepare matcha shortbread:
- Preheat your oven to 325 F (160 C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, extending to the sides so you can easily grab the parchment paper to remove the shortbread from the pan later
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, matcha powder, icing sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until the dough comes together. It should be crumbly but hold when pressed.
- Press the dough evenly into the base of the pan.
- Prick with the tines of a fork to prevent bubbling during baking
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges just turn lightly golden. Don't overbake it. Let it cool completely in the pan while you prepare the rest
Prepare the easy salted caramel crunch:
- Unwrap each of the Kraft's chewy caramel before using.
- In a large pot over low heat, melt the caramels, salt, and butter, stirring constantly until smooth. Turn off the heat
- Stir in the Rice Krispies cereal, mixing well.
- Pour the caramel mixture over the cooled shortbread, spreading evenly. Let it set at room temperature for 15-20 minutes, or until firm.
Prepare the chocolate topping:
- In a heatproof bowl set over a pan of gently simmering water, melt the dark chocolate and butter. Do not let the bowl touch the water. You can also melt the caramel in the microwave (stirring every 20 seconds).
- Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer and smooth it out. Sprinkle with some flaky sea salt on top. Let the chocolate set at room temperature or chill in the fridge for faster setting.
Slice and serve:
- Once fully set, use a sharp knife to cut into squares or bars. Wipe the knife between cuts to get clean slices.
*Nutrition facts are just estimates and calculated using online tools*
Ingredients and substitutions
1. All-purpose flour
You can also use gluten-free 1:1 baking flour
2. Matcha powder
You can use ceremonial or culinary matcha powder. I use ceremonial matcha powder
3. Powdered sugar
I haven’t tried this myself, but you can try powdered monk fruit sweetener for a lower-sugar option
4. Unsalted butter
You can use vegan butter or coconut oil
5. Chewy caramels
I use Kraft chewy caramels. You can also use Werther’s Soft Caramels
6. Rice Krispies cereal
You can also use finely chopped up toasted nuts like cashews or peanuts for the crunch
7. Chocolate
I use 60% dark chocolate. You can use semi-sweet or milk chocolate. I use dark chocolate so that the whole thing won’t be too sweet
Useful tips
1. Use high-quality matcha – A vibrant green, ceremonial-grade or high-quality culinary matcha will give the best flavor and color.
2. Avoid overbaking the shortbread – It should remain tender and buttery, not dry or crumbly.
3. Let the caramel set – Give it enough time to firm up before adding the chocolate layer to avoid mixing.
4. For perfect slices – Run your knife under hot water, dry it, then cut smoothly through the layers.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
1. Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
2. Refrigerator: Keeps well for 1-2 weeks, but let it come to room temp before eating.
3. Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature 20-30 minutes before serving.
