If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for your next sweet creation. Well, let me tell you, Shortbread Toffee Cookie Bars are about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. These delectable bars are the perfect combination of buttery shortbread, sweet toffee, and just a hint of chocolate. They’re easy to make, ridiculously delicious, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. These peanut butter bars are also a favorite old fashioned recipe.
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Shortbread toffee cookie bars recipe
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup butter room temperature
- 1 1/2 cup all purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Filling
- 1 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tbsp butter room temperature
Topping
- 1 pkg semi sweet chocolate chips can also use milk chocolate
- 1 cup Heath bits
Instructions
- Add the butter, flour and powdered sugar into a mixing bowl. Mix on medium speed until well blended and the mixture comes together. Press evenly into a 9 x 13 inch cake pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. While the base is baking, add the sweetened condenced milk and 2 tbsp butter into a small saucepan. Stir constantly over medium heat for 5-10 minutes or until butter is melted and the mixture just starting to simmer. Remove from heat. When the base layer is baked remove from oven and spread the milk mixture over top. Bake this in the oven for 12 minutes. Remove from oven and sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the top. Bake for 2 minutes, the chips should be shiny and soft. Spread evenly. Top with the heath bits. Cool completely. Store at room temperature in a covered container for up to 1 week. Can also be frozen to be enjoyed at a later date.
How to Store Your Shortbread Toffee Cookie Bars
Once you’ve baked these beauties, you’ll want to keep them fresh for as long as possible. Here’s how:
- Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week.
- Refrigeration: If you live in a warmer climate or want them to last even longer, you can refrigerate them. Just ensure they’re in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezing for Future Enjoyment
These bars freeze beautifully, so you can always have some on hand for unexpected guests or late-night cravings.
- Freezing: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap or parchment paper and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months.
- Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy, simply remove the desired number of bars from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour.
Exciting Variations to Try
One of the best things about Shortbread Toffee Cookie Bars is how versatile they are. Here are some fun variations that you might love:
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans, almonds, or walnuts to the top before baking for a nutty crunch.
- White Chocolate Raspberry: Swap out regular chocolate chips for white chocolate and add a swirl of raspberry jam for a fruity twist.
- Espresso Infusion: Sprinkle some instant espresso powder into your toffee layer for a coffee kick.
- Coconut Dream: Mix shredded coconut into the shortbread base for a tropical flair.
Tips for Baking Success
Before you dive into baking, here are a few tips to ensure your Shortbread Toffee Cookie Bars turn out perfectly:
- Use Quality Ingredients: Since these bars are all about simple flavors, using high-quality butter and chocolate will make a big difference.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on your bars as they bake. You want the shortbread to be golden brown, but not too dark.
- Let Them Cool: Patience is key—let the bars cool completely before cutting. This will help them hold their shape.
I hope you’re as excited as I am to whip up a batch of these delightful Shortbread Toffee Cookie Bars. They’re an absolute treat for the senses, and I’m sure they’ll become a staple in your baking repertoire. Happy baking, my friend!