Complete Recipe for Dulce de Leche Squares

 

Dulce de Leche Squares

These rich and chewy dulce de leche squares have a buttery shortbread base, a luscious caramel layer, and a chocolate or nut topping. They’re perfect for dessert or a sweet snack!

Ingredients

For the Shortbread Base:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Dulce de Leche Layer:

• 1 can (14 oz) dulce de leche
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Optional Topping:

• 6 oz dark or milk chocolate, melted (for a chocolate layer)
• ½ cup chopped nuts (almonds, pecans, or walnuts)
• Sea salt flakes (for a salty-sweet touch)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.

2. Make the Shortbread Base:

   • In a bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Mix in vanilla, then add flour and salt, stirring until combined.
   • Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish.
   • Bake for 18-20 minutes, until lightly golden. Let it cool.

3. Prepare the Dulce de Leche Layer:

   • In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and stir in the dulce de leche.
   • Warm until smooth, stirring continuously.
   • Pour over the cooled shortbread base and spread evenly. Let it set for 15-20 minutes.

4. Add the Topping (Optional):

   • If using chocolate, melt it and spread over the caramel layer.
   • Sprinkle with chopped nuts or sea salt, if desired.

5. Chill and Cut: