Smoky Salted Caramel Scottish Shortbread on the Grill

Introduction

This delectable Smoky Salted Caramel Scottish Shortbread is grilled to perfection on the Arteflame, giving it a crispy, buttery texture with added depth from the smokiness of the grill. Topped with a rich and smoky salted caramel, this grilled shortbread is an indulgent dessert for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup sugar (for caramel)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (for caramel)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon smoked sea salt

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the grill.
2. Stack firewood over top of the soaked napkins and light them.
3. Allow the fire to establish for about 20 minutes until the flat cooktop is evenly heated.

Step 2: Make the Shortbread Dough

1. Mix the softened butter, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt in a bowl until light and fluffy.
2. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a crumbly dough forms.
3. Press the dough into a flat disc and let it rest while the grill heats.

Step 3: Grill the Shortbread

1. Place the shortbread dough directly on the flat top griddle near the outer edges where the heat is moderate.
2. Gently press it down to form a thick rectangle.
3. Grill for about 8–10 minutes until golden brown on one side, then carefully flip and repeat.
4. Once both sides are golden and crispy, remove from the grill and let cool.

Step 4: Prepare the Smoky Caramel

1. Place sugar directly onto a hot section of the flat cooktop and allow it to melt.
2. Once melted, stir in the butter and mix until smooth.
3. Add the heavy cream and stir, creating a creamy caramel sauce.
4. Sprinkle in the smoked sea salt and remove from heat.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

1. Drizzle the warm smoky salted caramel over the grilled shortbread.
2. Let it set for a few minutes before cutting into bars or squares.
3. Serve warm and enjoy the rich, buttery flavor with a hint of smokiness.

Tips

• Grill the shortbread at the cooler edges of the cooktop to prevent burning.
• Use a spatula to carefully flip the shortbread once the bottom has firmed up.
• Store leftover caramel in a sealed jar and reheat gently when needed.

Variations

1. Chocolate Drizzle: Add a layer of melted dark chocolate on top of the caramel for extra richness.
2. Nutty Delight: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts into the caramel before drizzling.
3. Spiced Version: Mix cinnamon and nutmeg into the shortbread dough for a warm, spiced flavor.
4. Orange Zest Twist: Add orange zest to the caramel for a citrus-infused version.
5. Honey Caramel: Substitute half the sugar in the caramel with honey for a floral sweetness.

Best Pairings

• Fresh brewed coffee
• Aged whiskey
• Vanilla bean ice cream
• Roasted nuts

Conclusion

Grilling shortbread on the Arteflame brings out a delightful crispiness and smoky depth that makes this recipe truly unique. With the addition of smoky salted caramel, this treat is an irresistible blend of buttery, sweet, and savory flavors.