If you're a fan of gooey brownies, buttery shortbread, and rich caramel, you're in for a treat! Millionaire Brownies are a decadent combination of all three. Whether you're looking to impress your guests, spoil your family, or simply treat yourself, this recipe is your go-to dessert that feels luxurious but is surprisingly simple to make.
For specifics on the recipe, use the table of contents to click on sections of the recipe.
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Why you'll love this recipe
- Ease Meets Elegance: Despite their fancy appearance, these brownies are straightforward to make.
- Layers of Flavor: From the buttery shortbread base to the gooey caramel and chocolate topping, every layer brings a unique texture and taste.
- Crowd Pleaser: Whether it’s a potluck, birthday, or a casual family dinner, these brownies are always a hit!
I have to admit that chocolate is a weakness of mine, and I'm always looking for new chocolate recipes. If you love chocolate like I do, you don't want to miss this Classic Chocolate Cake recipe, Easy Chocolate Waffles recipe, or these Homemade Chocolate Beignets.
Ingredient List
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- unsalted butter
- white granulated sugar
- pure vanilla extract
- all purpose flour
- cornstarch
- salt
- brownie mix + ingredients listed on box
- dulce de leche
- pecan halves
- semisweet chocolate chips
- heavy cream
Equipment
- 8x8 Baking Dish
- Parchment Paper
- Measuring Spoons and Cups
- Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls
How to make Millionaire Brownies
This is an overview of the recipe. The full instructions are below in the recipe card.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
How to make the shortbread crust
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Add the flour, cornstarch, and salt, and stir until a soft dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the shortbread crust.
- Set the crust aside while you make the brownie batter.
How to make the Brownie Layer
- Prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions. Pour the batter over the shortbread crust and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the brownie layer is set and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let cool completely in the pan.
- Once the brownies are cool, spread the dulce de leche evenly over the brownie layer.
- Lay the pecan halves in rows across the top of the brownies.
- Spread the chocolate ganache on top of the pecans.
- Chill the brownies for at least one hour or until fully set. Slice into 9 bars.
Make-ahead, storage, and freezer tips
Storage - Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Freezing - Want to save some for later? Wrap individual brownie squares tightly in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Allow them to thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Eileen's Tips for Success
- Use room-temperature butter for the shortbread crust to ensure it creams easily.
- Don't rush the cooling process. The brownies must be completely cool before layering the dulce de leche.
- To get clean slices, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each cut.
Variations
Do you want to change up this recipe? Here are some ways to change the flavor of this dish.
- Swap the Nuts: Use walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts instead of pecans.
- Salty-Sweet Combo: Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the ganache.
- Peanut Butter Lover’s Twist: Swap dulce de leche for peanut butter caramel for a nutty variation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are they called millionaire brownies?
Can I make these ahead?
Serving Suggestions
Pair these indulgent treats with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee. They also make a fabulous dessert at the end of your favorite meal, such as Hibachi Noodles and Steak, Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole, and Cajun Shrimp Pasta.
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Eileen xo
If you click on the number of servings in the recipe card, you can adjust the measurements up or down for the exact number of servings you need.
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Millionaire Brownies
Equipment
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, using a hand mixer with beaters attached, cream 1 cup unsalted butter (softened) and ½ cup white granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Mix 1 ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract Add 2 cups all purpose flour1 tablespoon cornstarch and ½ kosher salt Stir until a soft dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the shortbread crust.
- Prepare 1 (18) ounce box brownie mix + ingredients according to the package instructions. Pour the batter over the shortbread crust and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the brownie layer is set and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let cool completely in the pan.
- Once the brownies are cool, spread 2 (13.4) ounce cans, dulce de leche evenly over the brownie layer. Arrange the 2 cups pecan halves evenly on top of the dulche leche, gently pressing them into the caramel.
- To make the ganache, heat 1 cup heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Pour the warm heavy cream over 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl and let sit for 1 to 2 minutes. Stir until smooth and glossy.
- Pour the ganache over the pecan layer and spread into an even layer. Chill the brownies for at least 1 hour or until fully set.
- Once chilled, lift the brownies from the pan using the parchment overhang and slice into 9 bars. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Nutrition
Notes
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