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Rich Millionaires Cheesecake

Featured in Sweet Moments of Joy.

Layered cheesecake combining shortbread, no-bake filling, homemade caramel and chocolate ganache. Prep in 70 minutes plus overnight chill.
Barbara Chef
Recipe by Barbara
Updated on Mon, 10 Feb 2025 15:37:31 GMT
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This Millionaire's Cheesecake transforms the classic Scottish shortbread treat into an indulgent layered dessert. Each slice reveals buttery shortbread, creamy vanilla cheesecake, gooey caramel, and silky chocolate ganache. The first time I served this at a dinner party, guests couldn't believe it wasn't from a professional bakery. The way each layer complements the others creates something truly luxurious.

Essential Ingredients

  • Full-fat cream cheese: Creates rich, stable filling
  • Golden syrup: Gives caramel signature flavor
  • Quality chocolate: Dark chocolate balances sweetness
  • Heavy cream: Must be 32% fat or higher
  • Unsalted butter: Controls salt level in each layer
  • Condensed milk: Forms caramel base
  • All-purpose flour: Makes tender shortbread
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Step-by-Step Creation

  • Bake shortbread: Press into pan, bake until golden
  • Prepare filling: Whip cream cheese mixture until smooth
  • Layer carefully: Pour over cooled base
  • Create caramel: Cook until thick and golden
  • Add ganache: Pour over set caramel layer
  • Chill thoroughly: Overnight for best results
  • Garnish: Drizzle with warm caramel before serving

Perfect Layer Technique

  • Let each layer set completely
  • Keep layers level for best presentation
  • Score edges before cutting
  • Use hot knife for clean slices

Common Issues Solved

  • If caramel too firm: Warm slightly before pouring
  • If ganache breaks: Reheat gently, whisk smooth
  • If base crumbles: Pack more firmly
  • If filling too soft: Chill longer

Advanced Variations

  • Salted caramel version: Add flaky sea salt
  • Coffee twist: Add espresso to ganache
  • White chocolate option: Use in place of dark
  • Mini versions: Use small springform pans
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Make-Ahead Tips

  • Shortbread base can be made 2 days ahead
  • Add chocolate barrier for longer storage
  • Freeze whole cheesecake up to 2 months
  • Thaw overnight in refrigerator
This dessert brings together classic favorites in an elevated way. The key is patience - letting each layer set properly creates those beautiful, distinct sections that make this cheesecake truly special.

Recipe Tips & Questions

→ Can I make this ahead?
Yes, prepare up to 3 days ahead and keep refrigerated. Add warm caramel drizzle just before serving.
→ Why isn't my caramel thickening?
Keep boiling and stirring until it coats back of spoon well. May need extra minute beyond recipe time.
→ Can I freeze this cheesecake?
Yes, freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in fridge before serving.
→ Is the shortbread base supposed to be crispy?
Yes. For extra crispness, add thin chocolate layer on cooled base before adding filling.
→ Can I use store-bought caramel?
Yes, but homemade gives best flavor and texture. Use thick caramel sauce if buying.

No-Bake Millionaires Cheesecake

Rich no-bake cheesecake on shortbread, layered with gooey caramel and dark chocolate ganache.

Prep Time
40 Minutes
Cook Time
30 Minutes
Total Time
70 Minutes
Recipe by: Barbara

Recipe Type: Irresistible Desserts

Skill Level: Moderate

Style of Cooking: American

Makes: 16 Serves

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian

What You'll Need

→ Shortbread Base

01 1 cup all-purpose flour (125g)
02 1 stick butter (114g)
03 1/4 cup white sugar (50g)
04 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Cheesecake

05 3 1/4 cups cream cheese (740g), room temperature
06 1/2 cup white sugar (100g)
07 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
08 1 cup heavy whipping cream (240ml)
09 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Caramel

10 1 cup light brown sugar (200g)
11 2 sticks butter (227g)
12 1/3 cup golden corn syrup (100g)
13 1 can condensed milk (397g)
14 1 teaspoon salt

→ Chocolate Ganache

15 1 cup dark chocolate (175g), chopped
16 1/2 cup whipping cream (120ml)

Let's Cook!

Step 01

Mix flour, butter, sugar and salt into crumbs. Press into pan. Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until golden

Step 02

Whip cream separately. Beat cream cheese, sugars and vanilla. Fold in whipped cream. Pour over cooled base

Step 03

Boil sugar, butter and syrup. Add condensed milk and salt, boil 1 minute until thick. Cool 90 minutes, reserve 1/4 for serving

Step 04

Pour cooled caramel over cheesecake. Chill overnight

Step 05

Pour hot cream over chopped chocolate. Let sit 1 minute, stir until smooth. Cool completely

Step 06

Spread ganache over caramel layer. Chill until set. Drizzle with reserved warm caramel when serving

Cook's Notes

  1. Can add chocolate layer on base to keep it crisp longer
  2. Whipping cream must be 33% fat or higher
  3. Requires overnight chilling

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Loose-bottomed cake pan
  • Food processor (optional)
  • Electric mixer
  • Saucepan

Allergy Notes

Always check ingredients carefully for allergens. When in doubt, please consult your healthcare provider.
  • Contains dairy (butter, cream, cream cheese)
  • Contains gluten (flour)

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

These values are estimates and should be used as a general guide.
  • Calories: ~
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Total Carbohydrate: ~
  • Protein: ~