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Leftover Candy Shortbread Bars

  • Author: Mia Park
  • Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
  • Yield: 20 bars

Description

Got a pile of leftover candy sitting in your pantry? Transform those colorful treats into Leftover Candy Shortbread Bars — a rich, buttery dessert that’s perfect for parties, holidays, or a fun baking project. These bars feature a crumbly shortbread base, a luscious caramel layer, and a vibrant candy topping that adds both crunch and color. Whether you’re craving a sweet snack or need a crowd-pleasing dessert, these bars are the perfect solution.

Ingredients

For the Shortbread Base:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Caramel Layer:

1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

1/2 cup unsalted butter

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup golden syrup or corn syrup

1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Topping:

1 1/2 cups assorted leftover candy (M&M’s, chocolate chunks, etc.)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Shortbread Base:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
    • In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup butter and 1/2 cup sugar until light and fluffy.
    • Gradually mix in 2 cups flour and 1/4 teaspoon salt until a soft dough forms.
    • Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden. Set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Make the Caramel Layer:
    • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 can sweetened condensed milk, 1/2 cup butter, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 1/4 cup golden syrup.
    • Stir constantly until the mixture begins to bubble, then reduce the heat to low. Continue stirring for 5-7 minutes until the caramel thickens and turns a rich golden color.
    • Remove from heat and carefully pour the caramel over the baked shortbread base. Spread it evenly using a spatula.
  3. Add the Candy Topping:
    • While the caramel layer is still warm, sprinkle your assorted leftover candy evenly across the top. Gently press the candies into the caramel to ensure they stick.
    • Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature or chill in the fridge for faster setting.
  4. Slice and Serve:
    • Once fully set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper edges.
    • Slice into squares or rectangles and enjoy!
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooling Time: 1 hour
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dessert

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Find it online: https://miaplates.com/leftover-candy-shortbread-bars/