why make this recipe
Twix Cookies combine crunchy shortbread, gooey caramel, and a milk chocolate topping into a single bar — all the familiar flavors of a Twix candy bar in an easy-to-slice cookie form. They’re perfect for gifting, parties, or when you want a nostalgic treat that’s quicker and less fussy than baking separate layers.
introduction
This Twix Cookies recipe builds a buttery shortbread base, a homemade caramel layer from wrapped caramels and cream, and a smooth chocolate finish flavored with vanilla. The method is straightforward: press the shortbread dough into a pan, bake, top with melted caramel, then chocolate. Once chilled and sliced, you’ll have neat cookie bars with crisp edges and a chewy center.
how to make Twix Cookies
Making Twix Cookies is mostly about layering and timing. First prepare a shortbread dough that becomes the sturdy base. While the base bakes and cools slightly, melt caramels with heavy cream to create a pourable caramel layer. After spreading and setting the caramel, melt chocolate with a splash of vanilla and pour over the top. Chill briefly to firm the layers, then cut into bars or rectangles.
Ingredients :
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup caramel candies, unwrapped
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add in the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
- Press the dough into the bottom of a lined baking pan.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- In a saucepan, melt the caramel candies with heavy cream over low heat until smooth.
- Pour the caramel over the baked shortbread and let it cool.
- Melt the milk chocolate chips in a separate bowl and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer and spread evenly.
- Allow the cookies to set at room temperature or in the refrigerator before cutting into bars.
how to serve Twix Cookies
Cut into bars or small rectangles and serve at room temperature for the best texture: firm shortbread, soft caramel, and melt-in-your-mouth chocolate. They’re great on a dessert platter, boxed as gifts, or paired with coffee, milk, or ice cream for an indulgent treat.
how to store Twix Cookies
- At room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- In the refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to 1 week; let them come to room temperature before serving for softer caramel.
- For longer storage: Freeze individual bars in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then stack with parchment between layers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
tips to make Twix Cookies
- Soften caramels slightly before melting to speed the process; stir constantly over low heat to prevent scorching.
- If the caramel seems too thin after melting, simmer for a minute to thicken; if too thick, add a teaspoon of cream at a time.
- Press the shortbread evenly into the pan for uniform bars. Use a parchment sling for easy removal.
- For cleaner slices, chill the assembled bars until firm and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.
- Taste-forward tip: a small pinch of flaky sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets enhances the flavors.
variation (if any)
- Chocolate type: Use dark chocolate or semi-sweet chips for a richer top layer.
- Nutty twist: Sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or almonds on the caramel before adding the chocolate.
- Salted caramel: Add a light sprinkling of sea salt to the caramel layer for a salted-caramel version.
- Mini bars: Use a smaller pan to make thicker bars, or a rimmed baking sheet for thinner, snackable pieces.
FAQ
Q: Can I substitute store-bought caramel sauce for the candies?
A: Yes — use a thick caramel sauce and heat briefly if needed so it’s pourable. Adjust quantity to fully cover the shortbread.
Q: Will the chocolate crack when cutting?
A: If the chocolate is fully set and brittle, warm the knife slightly under hot water, dry it, and slice cleanly to reduce cracking.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend and proceed as directed; texture may vary slightly.
Conclusion
If you want another take on Twix Cookies with photos and a step-by-step guide, check out this Twix Cookies recipe on Cooking With Karli for visual inspiration and tips.
Twix Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add in the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
- Press the dough into the bottom of a lined baking pan.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- In a saucepan, melt the caramel candies with heavy cream over low heat until smooth.
- Pour the caramel over the baked shortbread and let it cool.
- Melt the milk chocolate chips in a separate bowl and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer and spread evenly.
- Allow the cookies to set at room temperature or in the refrigerator before cutting into bars.
