Aberdeenshire Caramel Slice

Introduction to Aberdeenshire Caramel Slice

The Aberdeenshire Caramel Slice, a popular treat originating from the northeastern region of Scotland, combines the rich flavors of butter, caramel, and chocolate. Known for its deliciously sweet layers, this dessert has been a comfort food staple in many Scottish households.

Historical Background

The origins of the Aberdeenshire Caramel Slice, also known as "Millionaire's Shortbread", can be traced back to Scotland's historical affinity for sweet pastries and confections. This dessert gained popularity due to its simple yet indulgent ingredients, making it a favorite at tea times and special occasions.

Ingredients

1. Shortbread base – 1 cup of crushed shortbread cookies or homemade shortbread
2. Butter – 1 cup, divided
3. Sugar – 1/2 cup granulated
4. Brown sugar – 1/2 cup, packed
5. Condensed milk – 1 can (14 ounces)
6. Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
7. Chocolate – 1 cup of high-quality milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Shortbread Base

Begin by making the shortbread base. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking pan with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix together the crushed shortbread cookies and 1/2 cup of melted butter.

Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Allow it to cool completely before proceeding to the next layer.

Step 2: Crafting the Caramel Layer

For the caramel layer, combine 1/2 cup of butter, sugar, brown sugar, and condensed milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously to prevent burning.

Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer while stirring for 5-7 minutes until it thickens into a golden caramel. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Pour the caramel evenly over the cooled shortbread base. Chill the pan in the refrigerator until the caramel is firm, which usually takes about 1 hour.

Step 3: Melting the Chocolate Topping

To prepare the final layer, melt the chocolate in a double boiler or microwave. Stir until the chocolate is smooth and glossy.

Carefully pour the melted chocolate over the chilled caramel layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Refrigerate the slice again until the chocolate is set, approximately another hour.

Finishing Touches and Serving

Once the chocolate is firm, remove the slice from the pan using the parchment paper edges. Use a sharp knife to cut it into squares or strips, wiping the knife clean between slices for a neat finish.

Serve the Aberdeenshire Caramel Slice with a pot of tea or coffee for a truly delightful experience. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain the freshness of the layers.

And remember, if you're planning to make these slices perfectly timed for an event, consider using a cooking timer to ensure each stage is given the right amount of attention.