Chocolate Billionaires: The Ultimate Decadent Candy Recipe

When it comes to indulgent treats, Chocolate Billionaires stand out as one of the most luxurious and delightful homemade candies. These decadent squares are made from layers of buttery shortbread, rich caramel, crunchy toasted pecans, and a smooth, glossy chocolate coating. Perfect for gifting or making any special occasion even sweeter, this recipe will leave everyone asking for more. If you’re looking for a treat that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also impresses with its beautiful layers and textures, Chocolate Billionaires are a must-try!

What Are Chocolate Billionaires Candy?

Chocolate Billionaires are a gourmet candy that combines four delicious elements: a buttery shortbread base, a luscious caramel layer, crunchy pecans, and a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate coating. The layers come together in perfect harmony, with the rich, buttery shortbread providing a solid foundation for the gooey caramel and the toasted pecans offering a satisfying crunch. Finally, the chocolate coating envelops the entire treat, adding that perfect finish of sweetness and richness. These homemade candies resemble high-end candy bars but offer even more flavor and texture thanks to their well-balanced layers.

The Origin of Chocolate Billionaires Candy

The origin of Chocolate Billionaires can be traced to the combination of classic candy-making elements. The shortbread base is a nod to traditional Scottish baking, where shortbread is revered for its crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Caramel is a beloved treat across many cultures, known for its silky consistency and sweet flavor. The pecans and chocolate bring a touch of Southern charm, blending together to create an indulgent, luxurious candy that’s perfect for any celebration or indulgence.

While the exact origin of the “Chocolate Billionaire” name is unclear, it’s believed to be a modern creation that builds on the popularity of layered bars like Millionaire’s Shortbread, but with a decadent twist of chocolate and nuts. The name “Billionaire” perfectly fits these candies, which are so rich and indulgent that they feel like a treat reserved for royalty.

Ingredients with Quantities for Chocolate Billionaires Candy

Before you start making these irresistible Chocolate Billionaires, here’s a detailed list of the ingredients you’ll need to gather:

For the Shortbread Base:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Caramel Layer:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey or corn syrup
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Assembly:

• 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans (toasted)
• 12 oz high-quality chocolate chips or chopped chocolate (semi-sweet or dark)
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil or shortening (for smooth coating)

Equipment Needed

To make this recipe, you’ll need the following equipment:

• 8×8 inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Heavy-bottomed saucepan
• Candy thermometer (optional but helpful for perfect caramel)
• Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl

Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method of Caramel Chocolate Treats

 1: Make the Shortbread Base

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, powdered sugar, and salt.
3. Add the cold cubed butter into the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared baking pan.
5. Bake the base for 18-20 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden. Remove it from the oven and let it cool completely.

 2: Make the Caramel Layer

1. Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until fragrant, then set them aside.
2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the brown sugar and honey/corn syrup. Stir constantly until the mixture begins to bubble.
4. Cook the caramel mixture for 3-4 minutes, continuing to stir, until it reaches 240°F (soft ball stage) or becomes thick and golden.
5. Carefully add the heavy cream to the caramel (it will bubble up). Stir constantly until smooth.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

1. Immediately stir the toasted pecans into the hot caramel.
2. Pour the caramel-pecan mixture over the cooled shortbread, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.
3. Let the caramel cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours until it firms up.

 4: Prepare the Chocolate Coating

1. Melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
2. Let the chocolate cool slightly for about 5 minutes (it should be warm but not hot).

 5: Cut and Coat

1. Use the parchment overhang to lift the candy out of the pan.
2. Using a sharp knife, cut the candy into 1-inch squares or rectangles. Clean the knife between cuts for neat edges.
3. Using a fork or candy dipping tool, dip each piece in the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off.
4. Place the coated candies on parchment paper-lined baking sheets.
5. Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes until the chocolate has completely set.

Tips for Success

Shortbread Base

• Use cold butter for the best texture and flakiness.
• Press the shortbread mixture firmly into the pan to prevent crumbling when cut.
• Do not overbake the shortbread; the edges should be lightly golden but not dark.

Perfect Caramel

• Use a heavy-bottomed pan to ensure even cooking and prevent the caramel from burning.
• Stir constantly to keep the caramel smooth and ensure it cooks evenly.
• Be mindful of the temperature – if the caramel overcooks, it can become bitter.
• Add the cream slowly to avoid bubbling over.

Chocolate Coating

• Do not overheat the chocolate; it can seize and ruin the smooth texture.
• Add coconut oil to make the chocolate coating glossy and smooth.
• Work quickly while coating the candies, as the chocolate will harden once it cools down.
• Tap off any excess chocolate for a clean, neat finish.

Variations of Homemade Chocolate Candy

Chocolate Millionaires

• For a milk chocolate version, simply swap dark chocolate for milk chocolate.
• Add mini chocolate chips to the caramel layer for extra texture.

Salted Caramel Version

• Add flaky sea salt on top of the chocolate for a delightful salty-sweet contrast.
• Increase the salt in the caramel to 1/2 teaspoon for a stronger salty flavor.

Different Nuts

• Substitute walnuts for pecans if you prefer a different nut.
• Almonds can be used for a firmer, crunchier texture.
• Try a mix of nuts for a more complex flavor profile.

White Chocolate Version of Caramel Chocolate Treats

• Use white chocolate for a different taste and aesthetic.
• Add lemon zest to the shortbread base for a citrusy twist.

FAQs About Chocolate Billionaires Candy

Can I make these without pecans?
Yes! You can easily substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even omit nuts entirely if you prefer.

How do I store these candies?
Store the Chocolate Billionaires in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.

Can I freeze Chocolate Billionaires?
Yes, you can freeze these candies. Wrap them in parchment paper, place them in an airtight container, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I use regular chocolate chips for coating?
Absolutely! High-quality chocolate chips work perfectly, but feel free to use any variety that you like, whether it’s dark, milk, or white chocolate.

Conclusion: Chocolate Billionaires Candy

Chocolate Billionaires are a spectacular treat that combines rich layers of shortbread, caramel, and chocolate into one decadent candy. Whether you make them for a special occasion, gift them to someone you love, or indulge on your own, these candies are guaranteed to impress. With a bit of patience and the right ingredients, you can craft this indulgent treat that feels as luxurious as its name suggests. From the crispy shortbread base to the smooth, glossy chocolate finish, Chocolate Billionaires truly live up to their name. Whether you’re looking to impress at a party or surprise a loved one with a homemade gift, this recipe is sure to delight everyone lucky enough to taste it.

Chocolate Billionaires: The Ultimate Decadent Candy Recipe

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• Author: David Andersson
• Total Time: 25 minutes (plus cooling time)
• Yield: About 24 pieces 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Chocolate Billionaires are a gourmet candy that combines four delicious elements: a buttery shortbread base, a luscious caramel layer, crunchy pecans, and a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate coating. The layers come together in perfect harmony, with the rich, buttery shortbread providing a solid foundation for the gooey caramel and the toasted pecans offering a satisfying crunch. Finally, the chocolate coating envelops the entire treat, adding that perfect finish of sweetness and richness. These homemade candies resemble high-end candy bars but offer even more flavor and texture thanks to their well-balanced layers.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Shortbread Base:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/4 cup powdered sugar

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cubed

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Caramel Layer:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar

• 2 tablespoons honey or corn syrup

• 1/4 cup heavy cream

• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For Assembly:

• 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans (toasted)

• 12 oz high-quality chocolate chips or chopped chocolate (semi-sweet or dark)

• 2 tablespoons coconut oil or shortening (for smooth coating)

Equipment Needed

To make this recipe, you’ll need the following equipment:

• 8x8 inch baking pan

• Parchment paper

• Heavy-bottomed saucepan

• Candy thermometer (optional but helpful for perfect caramel)

• Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl

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Instructions

Step 1: Make the Shortbread Base

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.

2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, powdered sugar, and salt.

3. Add the cold cubed butter into the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

4. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared baking pan.

5. Bake the base for 18-20 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden. Remove it from the oven and let it cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Layer

1. Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until fragrant, then set them aside.

2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

3. Add the brown sugar and honey/corn syrup. Stir constantly until the mixture begins to bubble.

4. Cook the caramel mixture for 3-4 minutes, continuing to stir, until it reaches 240°F (soft ball stage) or becomes thick and golden.

5. Carefully add the heavy cream to the caramel (it will bubble up). Stir constantly until smooth.

6. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

1. Immediately stir the toasted pecans into the hot caramel.

2. Pour the caramel-pecan mixture over the cooled shortbread, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.

3. Let the caramel cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours until it firms up.

Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Coating

1. Melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.

2. Let the chocolate cool slightly for about 5 minutes (it should be warm but not hot).

Step 5: Cut and Coat

1. Use the parchment overhang to lift the candy out of the pan.

2. Using a sharp knife, cut the candy into 1-inch squares or rectangles. Clean the knife between cuts for neat edges.

3. Using a fork or candy dipping tool, dip each piece in the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off.

4. Place the coated candies on parchment paper-lined baking sheets.

5. Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes until the chocolate has completely set.

Notes

Store these treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness. They also make great homemade gifts—just wrap them in cellophane or pop them into festive tins!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: American
• Cuisine: No-Bake

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 13g
• Sodium: 45mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: Low

Keywords: Chocolate Billionaires