Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious dessert that's worth its weight in gold! These Brown Butter Millionaire's Bars are not just a treat; they're an experience that combines the nutty richness of brown butter, the creamy smoothness of caramel, and the indulgent crunch of chocolate and nuts. Whether you're looking to impress guests or treat yourself to a moment of pure bliss, this recipe promises to elevate your dessert game to millionaire status.
Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, swirling the pan occasionally, until the butter turns a golden brown color and develops a nutty aroma. This process typically takes 5-7 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Remove browned butter from heat and let cool slightly. Mix the graham cracker crumbs with the brown butter and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a bowl until well combined.
- Press the graham cracker mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the condensed milk turns a light caramel color.
- Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the hot caramel layer. Let sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the chocolate to melt, then use an offset spatula to spread the melted chocolate smoothly.
- Sprinkle chopped nuts over the melted chocolate layer for added texture and flavor.
- Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for 1-2 hours to set firmly. Use the parchment paper handles to lift the entire dessert out of the pan.
- Cut into 16 even squares using a sharp knife. For clean cuts, wipe the knife between each slice.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Brown Butter Mastery: When browning butter, watch it carefully. The line between perfectly nutty and burnt is thin. Look for a golden brown color and a rich, nutty aroma.
- Crust Consistency: Press the graham cracker crust firmly and evenly to ensure a stable base for your layers.
- Caramel Care: When baking the condensed milk, keep an eye on its color. You want a light caramel shade, not a dark burn.
- Chocolate Spreading: Let the chocolate chips sit for a few minutes after sprinkling to ensure smooth, easy spreading.
- Cutting Technique: For perfect squares, use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts for crisp edges.
- Chilling is Key: Refrigerating helps set the layers and enhances the flavor and texture of the bars.Pro tip: These bars are even more delicious the next day, so don't hesitate to make them in advance!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 305kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 3g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
