Cashew Slices

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x9 inch baking pan.

2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and softened butter. Using your hands or a pastry cutter, work the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the shortbread base.

3. Bake the shortbread base in the preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes, or until it is lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

4. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, corn syrup, and heavy cream. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and turns a caramel color, about 8-10 minutes. Be careful not to let it burn. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

5. Pour the caramel mixture over the baked shortbread base, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the whole cashews evenly over the caramel layer, gently pressing them into the surface.

6. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the caramel is set and the cashews are lightly toasted.

7. Once done, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. For quicker set, you can place it in the refrigerator for a couple of hours.

8. Once completely cooled and set, use a sharp knife to cut the Cashew Slices into squares or rectangles. Enjoy these delicious treats with your favorite hot beverage or as a delightful dessert.