Raspberry Caramel Millionaire’s Shortbread

Introduction

There’s something magical about combining layers of rich, indulgent flavors with the freshness of fruit, and this Raspberry Caramel Millionaire’s Shortbread does just that. I first made this dessert for a family gathering, and it quickly became a favorite—especially among those who are vegan and gluten-free. The combination of a buttery, almond-based shortbread, tart raspberry jelly, creamy salted caramel, and a decadent chocolate topping hits every flavor note perfectly. What’s even better is that it’s surprisingly easy to make, despite the multi-layered construction. Every bite is a delightful contrast between the crunch of the base, the smoothness of the caramel, and the richness of the chocolate. It’s a dessert that feels luxurious and indulgent, yet it’s free of dairy, gluten, and refined sugar, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs.

Why You’ll Love This Raspberry Caramel Millionaire’s Shortbread

If you’ve been searching for a show-stopping, decadent dessert that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth, look no further. This Raspberry Caramel Millionaire’s Shortbread offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures, all while being vegan and gluten-free. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:

1. Luxurious Layers: The shortbread base is rich and crumbly, the raspberry jelly adds a tart contrast, the salted caramel is creamy and indulgent, and the chocolate topping is the perfect finishing touch.
2. Vegan and Gluten-Free: This dessert is suitable for a variety of diets, making it perfect for gatherings where dietary restrictions may be a concern.
3. Flavorful and Refreshing: The raspberry jelly brings a refreshing brightness to the dessert, while the caramel layer offers a rich sweetness. Together, they create an irresistible combination.
4. Easy to Prepare: Despite the multiple layers, the recipe is simple and straightforward, and the chilling time allows you to make the dessert in stages, which makes it more manageable.
5. Perfect for Special Occasions: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or any celebration, this dessert is sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

For the Base:

• 1 cup (125 g) gluten-free all-purpose flour (or plain flour if not gluten-free)
• 1 cup (112 g) ground almonds
• 4 tablespoons (60 g) vegan butter
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) pure maple syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 g) sea salt

For the Raspberry Jelly:

• 4 cups (480 g) fresh raspberries
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) pure maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) lemon juice
• 2 1/2 teaspoons (12.5 g) agar-agar powder

For the Salted Caramel:

• 1 cup (256 g) cashew butter
• 3/4 cup (177 ml) pure maple syrup
• 4 tablespoons (60 g) coconut oil, solid
• 2 tablespoons (30 g) full-fat canned coconut milk (or coconut cream)
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon (5 g) sea salt

For the Topping:

• 7 oz (200 g) vegan chocolate
• 1/4 cup (30 g) freeze-dried raspberries (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Base

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper.
2. In a food processor, combine the gluten-free all-purpose flour, ground almonds, vegan butter, maple syrup, and sea salt. Pulse until the mixture forms a dough.
3. Press the dough evenly into the base of the prepared pan, then prick the dough with a fork to prevent it from puffing up during baking.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the base is lightly browned. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature.

Step 2: Make the Raspberry Jelly

1. Place the fresh raspberries in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the raspberries break down and become jammy.
2. Blend the cooked raspberries until smooth, then strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove the seeds. Return the strained mixture to the saucepan.
3. Add the maple syrup, lemon juice, and agar-agar powder to the saucepan, whisking to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 3 minutes, whisking continuously.
4. Allow the raspberry jelly to cool slightly (about 10 minutes), then pour it evenly over the cooled shortbread base. Freeze for 30 minutes to set.

Step 3: Prepare the Salted Caramel

1. In a food processor, combine the cashew butter, maple syrup, coconut oil, coconut milk, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.
2. Spread the salted caramel evenly over the set raspberry jelly layer using a spatula.
3. Freeze the dessert for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the caramel to firm up.

Step 4: Add the Chocolate Topping

1. Melt two-thirds of the vegan chocolate in a double boiler over low heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the remaining chocolate until fully melted and smooth.
3. Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the caramel layer. If desired, sprinkle freeze-dried raspberries on top for an added touch of color and flavor.
4. Refrigerate for about 15 minutes, or until the chocolate has fully set.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

1. Use a sharp knife heated in hot water to slice the shortbread into 16 squares or rectangles. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for neat edges.
2. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 slice (out of 16)
• Calories: 290 kcal
• Sugar: 19g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 21g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 40 minutes
• Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight for best results)
• Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes

How to Serve

These Raspberry Caramel Millionaire’s Shortbread slices are perfect for any occasion, and here are a few ways to serve them:

• For Dessert: Serve as an elegant dessert at dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or special celebrations.
• With Tea or Coffee: Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat.
• As a Gift: Package them in a cute box or tin for a thoughtful homemade gift.
• On a Dessert Table: These slices will be a standout on a dessert table at weddings, birthdays, or festive events.

Additional Tips

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your coconut oil and coconut milk are at room temperature before using them for the caramel to ensure a smooth consistency.
2. Set the Layers Properly: Be sure to allow each layer (the jelly and caramel) to set completely before adding the next layer. This ensures a clean separation between each layer.
3. Freeze the Dessert Overnight: For the best texture and to ensure the dessert sets properly, freeze the Millionaire’s Shortbread overnight.
4. Use a Sharp Knife for Cutting: Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water to slice through the layers. This will help achieve clean, neat slices.
5. Customize the Toppings: Add more freeze-dried raspberries, or even a drizzle of extra melted chocolate, to give your dessert a personal touch.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different nut butter instead of cashew butter? Yes, you can use almond butter or peanut butter as a substitute for cashew butter.
2. Can I make this recipe without the agar-agar? Agar-agar is essential for setting the raspberry jelly. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with gelatin, but this will no longer make the dessert vegan.
3. How can I make the shortbread crust more crunchy? You can bake the shortbread for an extra 5 minutes for a crunchier texture.
4. Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh ones? Yes, frozen raspberries can be used in place of fresh raspberries.
5. What if I don’t have coconut oil? You can substitute coconut oil with a mild-tasting oil like vegetable oil or even vegan butter.
6. Can I make this recipe without chocolate? Yes, you can skip the chocolate topping if desired, but it adds a nice finishing touch.
7. How do I store these shortbread slices? Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.
8. Can I make this recipe in advance? Yes, this recipe can be made a day or two in advance. Just make sure to store it in the refrigerator.
9. **How do I cut

the slices neatly?** Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water to slice through the layers smoothly.

10. Can I use a different fruit for the jelly? Yes, other fruits like strawberries or blueberries can be substituted for raspberries.

Conclusion

This Raspberry Caramel Millionaire’s Shortbread is a true crowd-pleaser, offering a perfect balance of tart, sweet, and savory flavors. With its multiple layers, it’s a dessert that feels indulgent and impressive, yet it’s surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, this vegan and gluten-free dessert is sure to impress.

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