Millionaire’s Shortbread (Gluten Free) (UK Price, Calories & Allergens 2026)
Priced at £3.65 for a 56g portion, Costa’s Millionaire’s Shortbread (Gluten Free) offers a compact, indulgent sweet treat designed for those seeking a rich dessert-style snack. With 279 calories per portion, it carries a significant energy load typical of caramel and chocolate-based confections. The product is suitable for vegetarians but contains milk, soya, and tree nut traces, making it unsuitable for vegans and those with related allergies.
This gluten-free option layers buttery shortbread with salted caramel, milk chocolate, and a touch of white chocolate, creating a caramel-chocolate indulgence in a snackable format. Its ingredients focus on delivering depth and sweetness, complemented by the richness of butter and dairy.
For anyone sensitive to allergens, particularly dairy and soya, caution is needed due to the use of milk-based powders and emulsifiers. Gluten-sensitive consumers will appreciate the maize starch and rice flour base, carefully crafted to maintain texture without gluten-containing flours.
| Nutrient | Per 100g | Per Portion (56g) |
|---|---|---|
| Energy (kcal) | 498 | 279 |
| Energy (kJ) | 2083 | 1167 |
| Carbohydrates (g) | 65 | 36 |
| Sugars (g) | 43 | 24 |
| Fat (g) | 25 | 14 |
| Saturates (g) | 13 | 7 |
| Fibre (g) | 0.6 | 0 |
| Protein (g) | 2.6 | 1.5 |
| Salt (g) | 0.43 | 0.24 |
Quick Takeaways
- Portion weight offers a manageable 56g sweet snack with 279 calories.
- Contains 24g sugars and 14g fat, including 7g saturates, reflecting its indulgent nature.
- Suitable for vegetarians but includes milk, soya, and traces of tree nuts as allergens.
- Gluten-free shortbread base made from maize starch and rice flour for taste and texture.
- High sugar content driven by salted caramel (37%) and milk chocolate (20%).
- Protein is low at 1.5g per portion, aligning with its dessert-focused role.
A Rich Gluten-Free Sweet Treat
Millionaire’s Shortbread (Gluten Free) belongs to the classic dessert snack category, combining traditional layers that appeal to lovers of caramel and chocolate. The shortbread base uses maize starch and rice flour instead of wheat, maintaining the familiar buttery flavour while removing gluten. Salted caramel accounts for over a third of the product, offering a pronounced sweet-salty note that anchors the taste experience.
The layer of milk chocolate adds creamy cocoa richness, while the small amount of white chocolate introduces subtle vanilla undertones. Together, these components create a multi-layered flavour profile focused on indulgence rather than lightness or simplicity.
What Defines Its Caramel-Chocolate Indulgence
The salted caramel is the primary taste driver, contributing sweetness balanced with a touch of salt to enhance flavour complexity. Milk chocolate’s presence adds cocoa depth and creamy dairy notes that complement the caramel, while the white chocolate’s vanilla flavouring adds another subtle layer. These ingredients make the bar decidedly dessert-like rather than a snack for mild sweetness or low-fat needs.
With 24g of sugars and 7g saturates per portion, the shortbread carries a considerable richness consistent with a treat to enjoy occasionally rather than a daily pick.
Nutrition and Portion Size in Context
The 56g portion and near 280 calories position this treat as a dense, filling snack rather than a light nibble. Its fat content, especially saturated fat, is relatively high, contributing to a rich mouthfeel but also signifying it is not a low-calorie option. Protein remains minimal, reinforcing that this is not a substantial meal substitute.
The low fibre content and relatively low salt level (0.24g) mean the main nutritional focus is on energy density and sweetness. This product suits an afternoon pick-me-up or a dessert choice rather than a breakfast or lunch component.
Who Will Find It Suits Their Needs
This shortbread is a good match for vegetarians looking for a gluten-free indulgence rich in caramel and chocolate flavours. Those avoiding gluten or wheat will find it convenient, but dairy and soya allergy sufferers must avoid it due to its ingredient profile.
It appeals to consumers seeking a sweet treat rather than a balanced snack or meal replacement. The relatively high sugars and saturates make it more appropriate as an occasional indulgence rather than a frequent choice for those watching nutritional intake closely.
Allergens and Dietary Considerations
Key allergens include milk and soya, both evident in the caramel, chocolates, and butter components. There is also a trace presence of tree nut sources, important for those with nut allergies to note. Suitable for vegetarians, it does not qualify as vegan due to milk ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Disclaimer
Prices shown are typical UK menu estimates for 2026 and may vary by store location, promotions, delivery services, or eat-in vs takeaway pricing. Nutritional values are based on standard drink configurations and may change depending on size, milk choice, extras, or recipe updates made by the brand.