Name: Twix Cookie Bars: Irresistibly Chewy with a Caramel Twist
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 235 min
Ingredients: 1 cup salted butter (Provides richness and moisture for the crust; unsalted for less saltiness.); 1 cup powdered sugar (Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crust.); 2 cups all-purpose flour (Provides structure to the base; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.); 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (Enhances flavor depth in both the crust and caramel layers.); 6 tablespoons salted butter (Offers richness and balances sweetness in the caramel.); ⅛ teaspoon salt (Intensifies flavors in the caramel layer.); ½ cup light corn syrup (Prevents crystallization for a smooth caramel; golden syrup works too.); 1 cup granulated sugar (Sweetens the caramel, making it irresistibly tasty.); 1 cup heavy whipping cream (Adds creaminess to both the caramel and chocolate layers.); 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (Enhances the flavor of the caramel layer.); 1 ¼ cups milk or dark chocolate (Forms the topping; semi-sweet or dark chocolate gives a richer flavor.); ⅓ to ½ cup heavy whipping cream (Adjust for desired consistency; less cream results in firmer chocolate.)

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There’s nothing quite like that satisfying crunch as you bite into a classic candy bar, but what if I told you that you could recreate that joy at home? Enter my Homemade Twix Cookie Bars—a delightful tribute to the beloved treat that pairs a buttery shortbread base with a rich caramel layer, all capped off with silky chocolate. This recipe is a game-changer, perfect for those cozy afternoons when you crave something sweet but want to dodge the fast-food route. With simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, you’ll whip up these irresistible bars in no time! They offer the best of both worlds: a fun, creative kitchen project and a spectacular dessert that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Ready to indulge your sweet tooth? Let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!

Why Make Twix Cookie Bars at Home?

Irresistible Flavor: Every bite of these Twix Cookie Bars delivers rich, buttery goodness paired with gooey caramel and decadent chocolate, elevating your dessert experience.
Simple Ingredients: You only need pantry staples, making it easy to whip up these delights whenever a craving hits.
Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for gatherings, these bars are sure to impress friends and family—perfect for sharing or indulging yourself!
Quick to Make: In under an hour, you’ll have a sweet treat ready to chill, giving you more time to enjoy.
Satisfies Sweet Cravings: Whether you’re looking for a midday snack or an evening dessert, these bars hit the spot—a delightful alternative to fast food! If you enjoy easy, crowd-pleasing desserts, you might also love my Double Chocolate Cookie or Salted Honey Cookies for more sweet inspiration!

Twix Cookie Bars Ingredients

For the Shortbread Base

1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter – Provides richness and moisture for the crust; unsalted for less saltiness.
1 cup (4.5 ounces) powdered sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crust.
2 cups (10 ounces) all-purpose flour – Provides structure to the base; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – Enhances flavor depth in both the crust and caramel layers.

For the Caramel Layer

6 tablespoons salted butter – Offers richness and balances sweetness in the caramel.
⅛ teaspoon salt – Intensifies flavors in the caramel layer.
½ cup light corn syrup – Prevents crystallization for a smooth caramel; golden syrup works too.
1 cup (7.5 ounces) granulated sugar – Sweetens the caramel, making it irresistibly tasty.
1 cup heavy whipping cream (divided) – Adds creaminess to both the caramel and chocolate layers.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the caramel layer.

For the Chocolate Topping

1 ¼ cups (8 ounces) milk or dark chocolate – Forms the topping; semi-sweet or dark chocolate gives a richer flavor.
⅓ to ½ cup (3.5 ounces) heavy whipping cream – Adjust for desired consistency; less cream results in firmer chocolate.

Feel free to gather these ingredients and embark on your Twix Cookie Bars journey! They’ll satisfy your sweet cravings and delight your family and friends with every bite.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Twix Cookie Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of softened salted butter, 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 cups of all-purpose flour, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and crumbly. Press the mixture firmly into a greased 9×13” pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown, then remove it from the oven to cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Caramel
In a medium saucepan, combine 6 tablespoons of salted butter, ⅛ teaspoon of salt, ½ cup of light corn syrup, and 1 cup of granulated sugar, along with ½ cup of the heavy cream. Over medium heat, stir until the mixture begins to dissolve, then allow it to simmer gently without stirring. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature, cooking until it reaches 235°F (113°C). Remove from heat, then stir in the remaining ½ cup of cream and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, pouring it immediately over the cooled crust.

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Layer
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 ¼ cups of milk or dark chocolate with ⅓ to ½ cup of heavy whipping cream. Microwave in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between until the mixture is melted and smooth. Ensure it doesn’t overheat to prevent seizing. Once melted, gently pour the chocolate mixture over the caramel layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula for a beautiful finish.

Step 4: Set and Serve
Chill the assembled Twix Cookie Bars in the refrigerator for 3-4 hours, or until the chocolate layer is fully set and firm to the touch. Once set, gently lift the bars out of the pan using the edges of the foil. Slice them into squares or rectangles for serving, revealing the delicious layers inside. Enjoy these homemade Twix Cookie Bars with friends and family, or keep them all to yourself!

Expert Tips for Twix Cookie Bars

Candy Thermometer Calibration: Ensure your candy thermometer is accurate for perfect caramel. Adjust cooking temperatures according to your altitude to avoid crystallization.

Short Melting Intervals: Melt chocolate in 30-second bursts, stirring frequently to prevent it from seizing. This maintains a smooth, glossy topping on your Twix Cookie Bars.

Chill Time is Key: Allow ample time for your assembled bars to chill—3 to 4 hours ensures the layers set correctly, giving you that delightful bite when served.

Serving Temperature: For a softer caramel texture, let the bars sit at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing. This enhances your Twix Cookie Bars’ chewiness.

Storage Secrets: Keep these treats fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer, extending their deliciousness for up to two weeks!

Make Ahead Options

These Twix Cookie Bars are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a sweet treat without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the shortbread crust and the caramel layer up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover the cooled crust tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate the caramel in an airtight container. When you’re ready to finish the bars, just pour the caramel over the crust and prepare the chocolate layer as directed. To maintain quality and texture, ensure the bars are fully chilled before serving, which will keep the layers beautifully intact and just as delicious as when freshly made. Enjoy the convenience of having these irresistible Twix Cookie Bars ready to go whenever your sweet cravings hit!

Twix Cookie Bars: Creative Twists & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these fun variations and make these Twix cookie bars truly your own!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend for a deliciously chewy cookie that everyone can enjoy.
Nutty Addition: Incorporate ½ cup of chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy caramel and chocolate layers.
Flavor Boost: Experiment with flavored extracts such as almond or maple instead of vanilla to give your bars a unique twist. You’ll be surprised at how a little change can elevate the taste!
Chocolate Variety: Swap out the chocolate topping with white chocolate or even a blend of milk and dark chocolate for a visually stunning and deliciously different dessert.
Extra Caramel: For a richer treat, double the caramel layer recipe and pour it over the crust. The extra ooey-gooey texture will have your taste buds dancing!
Decadent Toppings: Top your bars with a sprinkle of sea salt after pouring the chocolate layer for a delightful contrast of sweet and savory. It’s a trendy twist that amplifies flavor beautifully.
Mini Bars: Cut the bars into smaller squares for bite-sized treats that are perfect for parties. They make for a fun option alongside my Layer Everything Bars!
Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with vegan margarine and heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free delight that everyone can savor!

Let your creativity roam free and enjoy indulging in these unforgettable homemade Twix cookie bars. Each bite will be a sweet reminder that when you cook at home, you can tailor it to your heart’s delight!

What to Serve with Twix Cookie Bars

These delightful cookie bars are perfect for creating a full and unforgettable dessert experience that your loved ones will adore.

Rich Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture and flavor of vanilla ice cream provide a delicious contrast to the chewy caramel and chocolate layers. It’s a classic combination that transports you to dessert heaven!
Fresh Berries: A mix of juicy strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries adds a refreshing burst of flavor that balances the sweetness of the cookie bars beautifully. Their tartness is a wonderful foil to the rich treats.
Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of coffee elevate the experience, cutting through the sweetness of the bars while enhancing the chocolate’s richness. It’s the perfect way to unwind and delight after dinner.
Chocolate Drizzle: For chocolate lovers, a quick drizzle of melted chocolate over the bars will take them to the next level, adding an extra layer of indulgence and visual appeal.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy touch that complements the dense layers of the Twix cookie bars. It’s simple yet elegant!
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling some warm caramel sauce on top brings an extra dose of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the chewy caramel layer. It’s a comforting addition to a beloved recipe!
Milkshake: A chocolate or vanilla milkshake creates a fun and indulgent pairing, amplifying the nostalgic candy bar experience while offering a cool, creamy companion.
Nutty Trail Mix: For a crunchy texture contrast, a small bowl of nutty trail mix with almonds, pecans, and chocolate chips will add a savory touch to the meal, enhancing every sweet bite.
Fruity Sorbet: A scoop of lemon or raspberry sorbet offers a refreshing palate cleanser, cutting through the richness of the cookie bars in the most delightful way. Each spoonful will leave you wanting more!

Storage Tips for Twix Cookie Bars

Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, ensuring they remain protected from moisture.

Fridge: Keep the Twix cookie bars in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. This will maintain their freshness and enhance the caramel’s chewy texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bars in a well-sealed container or wrapped tightly in foil for up to 2 months. Allow them to thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating: If desired, gently warm individual bars in the microwave for 5-10 seconds for a melty treat, but be careful not to overheat!

Twix Cookie Bars Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, particularly the butter and cream, opt for fresh, high-quality products. For butter, look for a creamy consistency without any off-smells—this ensures a rich flavor in your shortbread base. Heavy cream should be fresh with no lumps; this makes for a smooth caramel and topping.

What’s the best way to store Twix Cookie Bars?
I often recommend storing your Twix Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days if you plan to enjoy them quickly. For longer storage, placing them in the refrigerator keeps them fresh for up to 2 weeks, enhancing that delightful chewy caramel texture. Just make sure they’re well-sealed to prevent them from drying out!

Can I freeze Twix Cookie Bars?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your Twix Cookie Bars, first, let them cool completely after setting. Then cut them into squares, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, and place them in a sealed freezer bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes—easy and delicious!

What if my caramel isn’t setting?
If your caramel isn’t setting properly, it might be due to not reaching the right temperature during cooking. To solve this, use a candy thermometer; bring it to 235°F (113°C) for the perfect consistency. If it’s still too runny after cooling, you can reheat it gently while stirring, adding a bit more cream or butter to achieve the desired thickness.

Are there any dietary concerns I should be aware of?
Very good question! Make sure to check for allergies when serving your Twix Cookie Bars. The recipe includes common allergens like dairy and gluten. For those with gluten sensitivities, you can easily substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour. Additionally, if you’re serving these to pets, be mindful as chocolate can be toxic to them—keep those bars safely out of reach!

Can I make substitutions for the chocolate topping?
Certainly! If you prefer a different flavor profile, feel free to substitute the milk or dark chocolate with semi-sweet chocolate for a richer taste. You can even experiment with flavored chocolate, like white chocolate or mint chocolate, to put a creative spin on your Twix Cookie Bars. Just adjust the cream quantity for smoothness as needed!