Quick Tan Slice: Perfect Afternoon Treat

I’d been wanting to try this recipe, so I made Tan Slice for a friend’s afternoon tea—and it was just the thing. After a light lunch, everyone was in the mood for a little something sweet with their coffee. The rich caramel, buttery shortcake-style base, and a hint of chocolate made it feel indulgent, but not too much.

One of the nice things about this slice is how well it works in small portions. I cut it into little squares—just a bite or two each—which was perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth without going overboard. It’s a great recipe to have on hand for easy entertaining or a casual afternoon tea.

This recipe is also flexible. You can easily swap the chocolate chips for something else—chopped Maltesers could be a fun option, especially for kids, or dark chocolate chips for a richer flavour.

What Happened When I Made It

I was a little disappointed with the appearance at first — it looked so crumbly, with bits falling off and an untidy finish. But Helen reassured me that this is exactly how it’s meant to be. I was pleased to find that not only did it turn out the way it should, but it also tasted really good.

It had a lovely texture and flavour, and once I got over the rustic look, I could appreciate it.

Recipe

To print the recipe, simply click the ‘Print’ button below and save your PDF for easy reference!

🍰 🍮 🍪 🍫 🍯 🥄 🍽️ 🧁 🎂 🍴 🥄 🍯 🍫 🍪 🍮 🍰

Tan Slice

• Servings: 16
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 25 mins
• Difficulty: easy
• Rating: ★★★★★
• Print

𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗲 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗱𝗶𝘁:
• Chelsea Sugar

𝗧𝗶𝗽𝘀:
• Chocolate Chips: Try dark or milk chocolate chips in the topping for extra richness.
• Caramel Consistency: The caramel should be thick but pourable. Simmer longer if needed.
• Pressing the Base: Press firmly and evenly to help it hold together when sliced.
• Butter Tip: Use softened butter for easier creaming with sugar.
• Even Crumble: Distribute the topping evenly — leave a few caramel patches peeking through!

Ingredients

BASE:
• 200g butter, softened
• ½ cup sugar (113g)
• ½ tsp vanilla essence
• 2 cups plain flour (300g)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ cup chocolate chips (100g)

CARAMEL:

• 395g tin sweetened condensed milk
• 100g butter
• 2 Tbsp golden syrup

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat to 180°C (160°C fan bake). Line a 23cm square tin with baking paper.
2. Cream Butter & Sugar: Beat softened butter and sugar until pale and fluffy. Add vanilla.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: Stir in flour and baking powder. Mixture will be crumbly.
4. Press Base: Press two-thirds into the base of the tin.
5. Make Caramel: Heat condensed milk, butter, and syrup in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until thickened (6–8 mins).
6. Layer Caramel: Pour over the prepared base.
7. Add Topping: Mix remaining base with chocolate chips and crumble over caramel.
8. Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes until pale golden and set.
9. Cool & Slice: Let cool completely before cutting into squares.

Nutrition

Per Serving: 280 calories; 18g fat; 30g carbohydrates; 2g protein; 18g sugar.

📌 Don’t lose it — Pin it! Save this recipe to Pinterest or share it with a friend so you can find it again. ♡ Janet