The Raspberry Caramel Millionaires Shortbread is an indulgent dessert that combines a gluten-free shortbread base with layers of luscious raspberry jelly, creamy salted caramel, and rich vegan chocolate. This treat is both decadent and vegan-friendly, making it perfect for a special occasion or a delightful dessert to enjoy any day.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create the delightful Raspberry Caramel Millionaires Shortbread:
For the Base:
- 125g (1 cup) gluten-free all-purpose flour: This forms the foundation of the shortbread, ensuring a delicate yet sturdy texture.
- 112g (1 cup) ground almonds: Adds nutty flavor and contributes to the richness of the base.
- 60g (4 tablespoons) vegan butter: Provides moisture and helps bind the base together.
- 30ml (2 tablespoons) pure maple syrup: Acts as a natural sweetener, enhancing the flavor of the shortbread.
- 1.25g (¼ teaspoon) sea salt: Balances the sweetness and adds depth to the flavor.
For the Raspberry Jelly:
- 480g (4 cups) fresh raspberries: The fruity essence of these berries adds a vibrant flavor and color to the dessert.
- 60ml (¼ cup) pure maple syrup: Sweetens the jelly naturally while allowing the fresh raspberry taste to shine.
- 15ml (1 tablespoon) lemon juice: Provides acidity, enhancing the flavor of the raspberries.
- 12.5g (2 ½ teaspoons) agar-agar powder: A plant-based thickening agent that helps set the jelly.
For the Salted Caramel:
- 256g (1 cup) cashew butter: The creamy base of the caramel that gives it a rich mouthfeel.
- 177ml (¾ cup) pure maple syrup: Sweetens the caramel while complementing the flavors.
- 60g (4 tablespoons) solid coconut oil: Adds richness and helps to create a smooth texture.
- 30g (2 tablespoons) full-fat canned coconut milk: Contributes creaminess to the caramel.
- 5ml (1 teaspoon) vanilla extract: Infuses the caramel with aromatic sweetness.
- 5g (1 teaspoon) sea salt: Enhances the flavor profile and contrasts with the sweetness.
For the Topping:
- 200g (7 oz) vegan chocolate: This is for drizzling and adds a luxurious finish to the dessert.
- 30g (¼ cup) freeze-dried raspberries (optional): Adds a decorative touch and an extra burst of flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Start by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F). Lightly grease an 8-inch square pan and line it with parchment paper to facilitate easy removal later.
In a food processor, combine the gluten-free flour, ground almonds, vegan butter, maple syrup, and sea salt. Process until the mixture forms a cohesive dough. Press the dough evenly into the base of the prepared pan, smoothing it out with a spatula or the bottom of a glass. To prevent bubbling during baking, prick the dough with a fork.
Bake this shortbread base for 15-18 minutes or until it’s slightly golden brown. Allow it to cool to room temperature in the pan.
Step 2: Make the Raspberry Jelly
While the shortbread is cooling, prepare the raspberry jelly. In a saucepan, heat the fresh raspberries over medium heat for about 10 minutes, allowing them to break down and become jammy. Once softened, transfer the mixture to a blender and blend until smooth.
Strain the blended raspberries through a sieve to remove the seeds, then return the smooth mixture to the pan. Stir in the maple syrup, lemon juice, and agar-agar. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 3 minutes, whisking continuously.
Remove the raspberry mixture from heat and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Afterward, pour the jelly evenly over the cooled shortbread base. For the jelly to set, place the pan in the freezer for 30 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Salted Caramel
Next, make the salted caramel. In a food processor, combine the cashew butter, maple syrup, solid coconut oil, coconut milk, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Blend until smooth and silky, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
Spread the prepared caramel over the set raspberry jelly layer using a spatula to smooth it out evenly. Place the pan back into the freezer to allow the layers to set for a minimum of 4 hours, or ideally overnight for the best results.
Step 4: Add the Chocolate Topping
When ready to finish, melt two-thirds of the vegan chocolate using a double boiler method (or in the microwave in short intervals). Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the remaining third of the chocolate until fully combined and smooth.
Spread the melted chocolate over the set caramel layer. If desired, sprinkle with freeze-dried raspberries for added visual appeal. Refrigerate for 15 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
To slice the shortbread cleanly, dip a sharp knife in boiling water, wipe it dry, and gently cut through the layers. The heat from the knife will allow for smooth cutting.
Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. You can also freeze any unused portions and defrost them as needed.
Serving Suggestions
- For Special Occasions: Serve this luxurious treat at parties or family gatherings to impress your guests.
- As a Dessert: Pair with a dollop of vegan whipped cream or serve alongside a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for added indulgence.
- Fancy Presentation: Garnish with fresh raspberries and mint leaves to elevate the dessert’s presentation when serving.
Cooking Tips
- Line the Pan Properly: Ensure to line the pan with parchment paper, allowing for easy removal of the shortbread once all layers are set.
- Patience with Chilling: Giving the layers enough time to set in the freezer allows for better texture and helps the slices hold together when cutting.
- Customize Sweetness: Adjust the amount of maple syrup in the raspberry jelly or salted caramel to suit your personal taste preferences.
- Experiment with Flavors: You can add a hint of almond or coconut extract for a unique twist on the flavor profile of the caramel.
Nutritional Benefits
This Raspberry Caramel Millionaires Shortbread boasts several health benefits from its nutritious ingredients:
- Raspberries: Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, these berries offer many essential nutrients that promote health.
- Almonds: A great source of vitamin E, magnesium, and healthy fats, almonds contribute to heart health and can aid in weight management.
- Cashew Butter: Provides healthy fats and proteins, contributing to satiety and energy.
- Maple Syrup: A more natural sweetener compared to refined sugars, it contains beneficial minerals like manganese and zinc.
FAQs
Can I use regular flour instead of gluten-free?
Yes! If gluten is not a concern, you can replace the gluten-free flour with regular all-purpose flour.
What can I use instead of maple syrup?
You can substitute maple syrup with agave syrup or date syrup, but the flavor will change slightly.
Is there an alternative to agar-agar?
Yes! You can use vegan gelatin as an alternative to agar-agar, but be sure to follow the package instructions for setting.
Can I add other fruits?
Absolutely! You can modify the recipe by using other fruits to create different layers, such as strawberries or blueberries.
How long does this dessert stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge, the Millionaires Shortbread can be kept for up to 5 days.
Conclusion
The Raspberry Caramel Millionaires Shortbread is a truly indulgent vegan dessert that delights the taste buds while being friendly to a variety of dietary needs. Its layers of rich flavors and textures make it perfect for celebrations or simply as an everyday treat. Enjoy making and sharing this luxurious dessert with friends and family—it’s sure to impress anyone who tries it!