Millionaire Bars Recipe

This recipe yields approximately 36 servings and is a delightful treat, combining the rich flavors of caramel, chocolate, and a satisfying crunch from the crispy rice cereal and peanuts.

Ingredients

• 6 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 pound vanilla caramels
• 2 1/2 cups crispy rice cereal
• 1 cup chopped salted roasted peanuts
• 1 (11.5 ounce) package milk chocolate chips

Directions

1. Line a 9x9-inch square baking pan with foil and grease it thoroughly to prevent sticking.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream and butter over low heat. Stir occasionally until the mixture is just steaming.
3. Add the caramels to the saucepan and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until they are fully melted and smooth.
4. Once the caramel mixture is smooth, stir in the crispy rice cereal and chopped salted peanuts until well combined.
5. Quickly pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly to cover the bottom of the pan.
6. In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the chocolate chips on High in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds, until smooth. This should take about 1 to 2 minutes.
7. Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the caramel mixture in the pan.
8. Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for about 2 hours, or until the bars have set and the chocolate has firmed up.
9. Once set, cut the bars into squares and enjoy! These bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving (1 bar):

• Calories: 135
• Total Fat: 7g (9% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 3g (15% DV)
• Cholesterol: 7mg (2% DV)
• Sodium: 58mg (3% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 17g (6% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (2% DV)
• Total Sugars: 13g
• Protein: 2g (5% DV)
• Calcium: 39mg (3% DV)
• Iron: 1mg (3% DV)
• Potassium: 90mg (2% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs.

The Sweet Legacy of Millionaire Bars

Millionaire Bars, also known as caramel shortbread bars, trace their origins to the United Kingdom in the early 20th century. Initially, they were a luxurious twist on the classic shortbread cookie, with layers of buttery base, rich caramel, and chocolate topping symbolizing indulgence, hence the moniker "millionaire." Over time, the recipe crossed the Atlantic, evolving in American kitchens to incorporate locally popular ingredients such as crisp rice cereal and roasted peanuts, creating the no-bake versions many enjoy today.

Regional Variations

In the UK, traditional Millionaire Bars are often made with a simple shortbread base, golden caramel, and a milk chocolate topping. In contrast, American adaptations favor a crispier texture, using cereal and nuts for extra crunch. Some regions in the United States also introduce different nut varieties, like almonds or cashews, or dark chocolate to balance sweetness. These regional tweaks highlight how this dessert adapts to local tastes while retaining its signature three-layer structure.

What Sets Millionaire Bars Apart

Unlike similar layered treats, such as the Nanaimo bar from Canada or caramel slice from Australia, Millionaire Bars emphasize a crunchy base combined with sweet, buttery caramel and chocolate. The inclusion of nuts in some recipes adds a savory contrast uncommon in comparable desserts. Their no-bake preparation also differentiates them, offering convenience without sacrificing flavor, making them more accessible than traditional shortbreads or fully baked layered bars.

Typical Occasions and Serving

Millionaire Bars are versatile in presentation and often served at tea parties, holiday gatherings, or casual family events. Their bite-sized squares make them ideal for dessert platters or as individually wrapped treats for picnics and lunchboxes. Many bakeries and cafs offer these bars alongside coffee or tea, highlighting their rich, satisfying sweetness as a perfect complement to hot beverages.

Interesting Facts

The name "Millionaire Bars" reflects more than just their luxurious taste. It is said that the original caramel layers were considered a decadent luxury at a time when sugar was costly, earning the dessert its glamorous title. Another fun fact is that the bars structurebase, caramel, chocolateprovides a satisfying combination of textures, which is part of the reason they remain popular in both homemade and commercial versions. Additionally, while traditionally made with milk chocolate, contemporary variations experiment with white or dark chocolate, adding a modern twist to a classic favorite.

FAQ about Millionaire Bars Recipe

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