The light buttery flavor of the shortbread combined with the richness of the dulce de leche is heaven – absolute heaven.
Shortbread is so easy to make. It takes just a couple of ingredients and you are in business.
Buttery Dulce de Leche Bars
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
Description
These buttery shortbread bars topped with rich dulce de leche and a drizzle of candy melts are a simple yet impressive dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 egg
- 2 sticks butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup confectioners sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup Dulce de Leche
- 1/4 cup any flavor or color candy melts
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Spray an 8×8-inch glass baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
- In a mixer, combine the granulated sugar, confectioners sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the egg to the mixture and stir until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the flour, beating until the dough is well combined and smooth.
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, spread the dulce de leche evenly over the shortbread layer.
- Melt the candy melts according to the package instructions and drizzle over the top of the dulce de leche layer.
- Allow the bars to set before cutting into squares and serving.
Notes
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For a twist, try using flavored candy melts to match the season or occasion. Ensure the shortbread is completely cool before spreading the dulce de leche to prevent it from melting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 18
- Sodium: 75
- Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 28
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 2
- Cholesterol: 35
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of butter should I use for the shortbread in the Buttery Dulce de Leche Bars?
You should use unsalted butter for the shortbread to control the salt level and enhance the buttery flavor.
Can I use store-bought dulce de leche for this recipe?
Yes, you can use store-bought dulce de leche if you’re short on time, but homemade will give you a richer flavor.
How do I know when the shortbread crust is ready before adding the dulce de leche?
The shortbread crust is ready when it is lightly golden around the edges and feels set but not hard.
