Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie has been my go-to treat for special occasions ever since I first tasted one at a quaint little bakery during a holiday. I remember the way the rich, buttery shortbread melted in my mouth, followed by the gooey, sweet caramel and the snap of chocolate, all perfectly balanced by a sprinkle of sea salt. This combination is pure magic, and I knew I had to recreate that incredible experience at home. Crafting this millionaire’s shortbread with sea salt has become a true joy, bringing those cherished memories right back to my kitchen. These gourmet sea salted caramel cookies are surprisingly simple to make, yet they look incredibly impressive. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie

I promise, these Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie cups are about to become your new favorite dessert! I’ve found that they offer an irresistible combination of flavors and textures that simply can’t be beat. They’re also surprisingly simple to whip up, making them perfect for any occasion.

The perfect balance of sweet, salty, and rich flavors will tantalize your taste buds.
They’re an easy salted caramel millionaire’s shortbread option that looks incredibly impressive with minimal effort.
Despite their gourmet appeal, these cookie cups are surprisingly budget-friendly to make at home.
The recipe is straightforward, making it a fantastic and easy salted caramel millionaire’s shortbread project for bakers of all skill levels.
These treats are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making them ideal for family gatherings or parties.
You’ll love how these millionaire’s shortbread with sea salt offer a delightful twist on a classic.

Ingredients for Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie

Here’s everything you’ll need to create these heavenly Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie cups. I always make sure to have these on hand when a craving strikes!

275g plain flour – this forms the perfect base for our chewy cookie cups.
1 tsp bicarbonate of soda – helps the cookies rise and get that lovely soft texture.
1 tbsp cornflour – my secret for extra tender cookies.
1/2 tsp salt – balances the sweetness in the cookie dough.
115g unsalted butter – ensure it’s softened for easy creaming.
135g light brown soft sugar – adds moisture and a rich, deep flavor.
55g granulated sugar – for that classic cookie sweetness.
1 egg – preferably at room temperature for better incorporation.
1 tsp vanilla extract – enhances all the other flavors.
200g milk chocolate chips – I prefer milk chocolate for a sweeter cookie, but dark works too.
60g unsalted butter – essential for the luscious caramel layer.
140g granulated sugar – the foundation of our homemade salted caramel.
80ml double cream – makes the caramel incredibly smooth and rich.
3 tbsp water – helps dissolve the sugar for the caramel.
2 tsp Yorkshire sea salt – this is crucial for the “sea salted” part, elevating the caramel to perfection. It’s what makes this chocolate caramel shortbread with sea salt so special.
130g milk chocolate – for the glorious topping.

How to Make Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie

Making these delightful Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie cups is a truly rewarding experience, and I’m excited to guide you through each step. Just follow these easy Millionaire’s shortbread baking instructions and you’ll have perfectly layered treats in no time.

Step 1: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, grab a 12-cup muffin tin and grease it well. This ensures our cookie cups will pop out easily after baking.
Step 2: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: the plain flour, bicarbonate of soda, cornflour, and salt. I find that a good whisk ensures everything is evenly distributed, which is key for consistent cookies.
Step 3: In a separate, larger bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter with both the light brown soft sugar and granulated sugar. Beat them together until the mixture looks wonderfully light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving tender cookie bases.
Step 4: Now, beat in the egg and vanilla extract until they are fully incorporated into your creamy sugar mixture. The vanilla adds that lovely aromatic depth to the cookie.
Step 5: Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until a soft dough begins to form. Be careful not to overmix here; just combine until no streaks of flour remain.
Step 6: Fold in the milk chocolate chips. I love seeing the chips speckle throughout the dough, promising a burst of chocolate in every bite of your Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie.
Step 7: Using a cookie scoop, portion the dough into each cavity of your prepared muffin tin. Then, gently press each portion down to create a cup shape. This forms the perfect vessel for our caramel and chocolate layers.
Step 8: Bake the cookie cups for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are just golden. When they come out, they’ll smell absolutely heavenly. These are essential Millionaire’s shortbread baking instructions for the cookie base.
Step 9: While the cookie cups are still warm from the oven, use the back of a spoon to press down the centers. This creates deeper wells for our luscious filling.
Step 10: Let the cookie cups cool completely in the tin before attempting to remove them. Patience here is a virtue, as it helps them set and hold their shape.
Step 11: For the caramel, combine 140g granulated sugar and 3 tbsp water in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook without stirring until the sugar dissolves and turns a deep golden amber color. Watch it carefully; it can go from perfect to burnt quickly!
Step 12: Carefully stir in the 60g unsalted butter until it melts, followed by the double cream. Be cautious, as the mixture will bubble up vigorously. Stir in the 2 tsp sea salt until smooth and glossy. Let it cool slightly before moving on.
Step 13: Spoon the warm caramel into the cooled cookie cups, filling each one almost to the top. The smooth, glistening caramel is such a treat.
Step 14: Refrigerate the caramel-filled cookie cups until the caramel sets firmly. This usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour.
Step 15: Meanwhile, melt the 130g milk chocolate. You can do this in short bursts in the microwave or over a bain-marie until it’s smooth and shiny.
Step 16: Once the chocolate is melted, spread a layer over each caramel-filled cup. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little extra sea salt on top for that signature sparkle and flavor boost. These Millionaire’s shortbread baking instructions are almost complete!
Step 17: Chill your finished Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie cups again until the chocolate topping is firm and glossy. The anticipation is the hardest part!
Step 18: Serve them slightly chilled or at room temperature. I find they’re perfect either way, offering that irresistible combination of chewy cookie, gooey caramel, and snappy chocolate.

Amazing Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie: 3 Layers of Bliss - Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that truly elevate these Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie cups from great to absolutely phenomenal. Following these expert tips will ensure your batch turns out perfectly every time, making your homemade millionaire’s shortbread recipe a standout.

Always use good quality chocolate and butter; it really makes a difference in the final taste and texture.
Don’t rush the caramel-making process. Cooking it slowly and carefully ensures a smooth, rich, and perfectly set caramel.
A generous sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the chocolate layer is non-negotiable – it brilliantly cuts through the sweetness.
Chill each layer thoroughly before adding the next. This prevents bleeding and helps create those distinct, beautiful layers.

What’s the secret to perfect Millionaire shortbread with sea salt?

The real secret to a perfect Millionaire shortbread with sea salt lies in the caramel. I’ve discovered that cooking the sugar and water until it reaches a deep amber color before adding the butter and cream creates an incredibly rich, complex flavor that store-bought caramel simply can’t match. It’s what gives these cookies their signature depth.

Can I make Homemade millionaire’s shortbread recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This homemade millionaire’s shortbread recipe is fantastic for meal prep. You can make the cookie cups and even the caramel layer a day or two in advance. Store the cooled cookie cups in an airtight container at room temperature, and the caramel in the fridge, then assemble closer to serving time. It saves so much time!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Millionaire cookie bars with chocolate?

One common mistake with Millionaire cookie bars with chocolate is over-mixing the cookie dough, which can lead to tough bases. Mix just until combined. Another pitfall is burning the caramel; keep a close eye on it and remove it from the heat as soon as it turns amber. Finally, ensure your chocolate topping isn’t too hot, or it might melt the caramel underneath.

Best Ways to Serve Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie

These Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie cups are versatile and always a hit, no matter how you present them! I love thinking of them as delightful individual desserts, perfect for a variety of occasions. They are truly one of my favorite Millionaire’s shortbread dessert ideas.

For an elegant presentation, serve them individually on small dessert plates alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The slight chill from the ice cream contrasts beautifully with the rich cookie and warm caramel notes. They also make fantastic additions to a dessert platter, especially when paired with fresh berries or a light fruit tart for balance.

I often find that a cup of strong coffee or a mug of hot chocolate makes an excellent companion to these rich treats. If you’re looking for sophisticated Millionaire’s shortbread dessert ideas, consider offering them after a cozy dinner party. Their impressive appearance and irresistible flavor will surely leave a lasting impression on your guests.

Amazing Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie: 3 Layers of Bliss - Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie - additional detail

Nutrition Facts for Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie

I know many of you are curious about the nutritional breakdown of these delightful Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie cups. Here’s an estimate per serving, based on the recipe yielding 12 cookie cups:

Serving Size: 1 cookie cup
Calories: 340
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 28g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sodium: 210mg

Please remember that these nutritional values for the Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie are estimates and may vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you choose to use in your homemade millionaire’s shortbread recipe.

How to Store and Reheat Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie

I always make a big batch of these delicious Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie cups, so knowing how to store them properly is key to enjoying them for days! Once they’ve cooled completely, which is important to prevent condensation, you’ll want to place them in an airtight container.

At room temperature, these delightful treats will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. If your kitchen is warm, or if you prefer a firmer texture, I recommend storing them in the refrigerator, where they’ll last about a week. To store sea salted millionaire’s cookie cups for longer, they freeze beautifully!

Simply wrap individual cookie cups in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or for a few hours at room temperature. I find they taste best when allowed to come to room temperature before serving, letting that rich caramel soften just a bit.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie

What is a millionaire’s shortbread cookie?

A millionaire’s shortbread cookie, or more commonly millionaire’s shortbread, is a classic confection featuring three indulgent layers: a buttery shortbread base, a rich, gooey caramel center, and a smooth chocolate topping. My Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie cups take this concept and transform it into a chewy cookie base, making them even more delightful and easy to enjoy.

Why is it called millionaire’s shortbread?

It’s said to be called millionaire’s shortbread because of its incredibly rich and luxurious taste, making anyone who eats it feel like a millionaire! The combination of decadent shortbread, luscious caramel, and smooth chocolate creates a truly opulent dessert experience. My Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie version certainly lives up to that lavish reputation.

Can I use store-bought caramel for these Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie cups?

While I highly recommend making the homemade caramel for the best flavor in your Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie, you can use a good quality, thick store-bought caramel if you’re short on time. Just ensure it’s a firm enough consistency to set properly in the cookie cups. Avoid runny caramel sauces, as they won’t hold their shape.

How can I make my Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie more festive for holidays?

To make your Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie cups festive, you can add a touch of holiday cheer! Try sprinkling crushed candy canes on top of the chocolate for a peppermint twist, or drizzle white chocolate over the milk chocolate layer and add some festive sprinkles. A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg in the cookie dough can also add a warm, seasonal flavor to your homemade millionaire’s shortbread recipe.

Variations of Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie You Can Try

I love experimenting in the kitchen, and these Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie cups are incredibly adaptable! If you’re looking to put your own spin on this classic, I’ve got some fantastic Millionaire’s shortbread variations you can explore. These ideas will help you customize your treats to suit different tastes or dietary needs.

Dark Chocolate Lovers: For a richer, less sweet experience, simply swap the milk chocolate chips in the cookie dough and the milk chocolate topping for dark chocolate (60-70% cocoa). The bitterness of the dark chocolate pairs wonderfully with the sweet caramel and sea salt.
Nut Butter Swirl: After you’ve spooned in the caramel layer, add a small dollop of your favorite nut butter (like peanut, almond, or cashew butter) and swirl it gently with a toothpick before chilling. This adds an extra layer of flavor and texture to your Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie.
Espresso Kick: For coffee enthusiasts, dissolve 1-2 teaspoons of instant espresso powder in the vanilla extract before adding it to your cookie dough. This subtle coffee note enhances the chocolate and caramel beautifully, creating a sophisticated version of these cookie cups.
Gluten-Free Option: You can easily make these gluten-free by using a good quality 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of the plain flour. Ensure your other ingredients are also certified gluten-free for a truly inclusive treat. These are just a few of the exciting Millionaire’s shortbread variations you can try!

Amazing Sea Salted Millionaires Cookie: 3 Layers of Bliss

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Michael
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 12 cookie cups 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Sea Salted Millionaire’s Cookie Cups combine chewy chocolate chip cookie bases with gooey salted caramel and a silky milk chocolate topping. Finished with a sprinkle of sea salt, they offer a perfect balance of sweet and salty indulgence. They look impressive but are surprisingly easy to make, ideal for parties, gifts, or a show-stopping sweet treat.

Ingredients

Scale

275g plain flour
1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
1 tbsp cornflour
1/2 tsp salt
115g unsalted butter
135g light brown soft sugar
55g granulated sugar
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
200g milk chocolate chips
60g unsalted butter (for caramel)
140g granulated sugar (for caramel)
80ml double cream
3 tbsp water
2 tsp Yorkshire sea salt
130g milk chocolate (for topping)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 12-cup muffin tin.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, bicarbonate of soda, cornflour, and salt.
In a separate large bowl, cream the butter with both sugars until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
Fold in the milk chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed.
Using a cookie scoop, portion the dough into the muffin tin cavities and press each portion gently to form a cup shape.
Bake the cookie cups for 10–12 minutes, just until golden around the edges.
While still warm, use the back of a spoon to press down the centers to create deeper wells for the filling.
Let them cool completely in the tin before removing them.
For the caramel, combine 140g granulated sugar and 3 tbsp water in a saucepan over medium heat, cooking without stirring until the sugar dissolves and turns a deep golden amber.
Stir in 60g unsalted butter until melted, followed by the double cream—carefully, as it bubbles vigorously.
Stir in the 2 tsp sea salt and mix until smooth and glossy, then let it cool slightly before filling.
Spoon the warm caramel into the cooled cookie cups, filling each one almost to the top.
Refrigerate the caramel-filled cookie cups until the caramel sets.
Meanwhile, melt the 130g milk chocolate in a heatproof bowl, either in short microwave bursts or over a bain-marie.
Once melted, spread a layer of chocolate over each caramel-filled cup and sprinkle a little extra sea salt on top.
Chill them again until the chocolate is firm and glossy.
Serve slightly chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

You can use dark chocolate instead of milk for a richer flavor, or white chocolate for a sweeter variation in these millionaire’s shortbread cookies.
To prevent the caramel from burning, keep the heat medium and watch closely, removing it quickly once it turns golden.
For a twist, add a layer of peanut butter or espresso powder to the cookie dough, or sprinkle crushed peppermint candies for the holidays.
Make mini versions of these millionaire’s shortbread bars in a mini muffin tin and bake for about 8 minutes for bite-sized treats.
Store the sea salted millionaire’s cookie cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate if your kitchen is warm to keep the chocolate firm.
These also freeze beautifully; thaw them in the fridge before serving.
If using store-bought caramel, ensure it’s a thick variety suitable for filling.
To make the caramel thicker, cook it a minute longer until it reaches a slightly deeper amber color before adding the cream.
For a glossy chocolate top, let the melted chocolate cool slightly before spreading, then refrigerate just until set.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American