Caramel Nut Shortbread Bars

These Caramel Nut Shortbread Bars offer a luxurious treat with a buttery shortbread base, a rich caramel layer, and a crunchy nut topping. Perfect for holidays, gifting, or anytime you crave a sweet and nutty indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bars are the perfect blend of texture and flavor—crisp shortbread, silky caramel, and crunchy nuts all in one bite. They’re easy to slice and store, making them excellent for dessert trays or make-ahead treats. The layered nature ensures every piece feels like a gourmet delight.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Brown sugar
• Heavy cream
• Assorted nuts (pecans, almonds, walnuts)
• Salt

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Combine flour, butter, sugar, and vanilla to form the shortbread dough.
3. Press the dough into the baking pan and bake for 15–18 minutes until lightly golden.
4. In a saucepan, cook sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, butter, and cream over medium heat until thickened into caramel.
5. Pour caramel over the baked shortbread and sprinkle chopped nuts evenly on top.
6. Return to the oven for an additional 10–12 minutes.
7. Cool completely before slicing into bars.

Servings and timing

Makes approximately 16 bars and takes around 45 minutes including baking and cooling.

Variations

• Use macadamia nuts or hazelnuts for a different flavor.
• Add a sprinkle of sea salt for a salted caramel version.
• Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a fancier finish.

storage/reheating

Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for up to 10 days. No reheating required.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel?

Yes, but homemade caramel gives a richer flavor and better texture.

What nuts work best?

Pecans and almonds are traditional, but feel free to mix and match.

Can these be frozen?

Yes, freeze in layers with parchment paper between them for up to 2 months.

How do I prevent the caramel from becoming grainy?

Stir constantly and avoid high heat when making the caramel.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not by default, but can be made gluten-free using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Can I make them ahead?

Yes, these bars keep well and even taste better the next day.

Are they overly sweet?

They are rich, but balanced by the saltiness of the nuts and buttery base.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter is preferred for flavor and texture, but margarine can be used in a pinch.

Do I need to toast the nuts?

Optional, but toasting enhances flavor and adds crunch.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Yes, stir them into the caramel before pouring over the base.

Conclusion

Caramel Nut Shortbread Bars are a delectable layered dessert that offers the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. With a classic shortbread base and a nut-studded caramel topping, they’re a hit at any event or as an indulgent homemade gift.

Print