Decadent Twix-Inspired Cookie Bar Recipe
If you love Twix bars, you’re in for a treat! These homemade Twix-inspired cookie bars feature a buttery shortbread base, a rich caramel layer, and a smooth, velvety chocolate topping.
This recipe delivers all the indulgent flavors of a classic Twix but with a fresher, homemade touch. Perfect for dessert lovers, party treats, or just a sweet snack, these bars are easy to make and even easier to enjoy!
Ingredients for Twix-Inspired Cookie Bars
For the Shortbread Crust:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Caramel Layer:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- ¼ cup light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Topping:
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or milk chocolate for a classic Twix taste)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or heavy cream for a smooth finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Shortbread Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the flour, salt, and vanilla extract, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
- Let the crust cool completely before adding the caramel layer.
2. Make the Caramel Layer
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Stir in the brown sugar, condensed milk, and corn syrup.
- Cook while constantly stirring until the mixture reaches a soft ball stage (about 240°F or 115°C).
- Remove from heat and mix in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the caramel over the cooled shortbread crust, spreading evenly.
- Let it cool completely before adding the chocolate layer.
3. Create the Chocolate Topping
- Melt the chocolate chips with the vegetable oil or heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring in between.
- Once smooth, pour the chocolate over the caramel layer and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Let the bars set at room temperature or refrigerate for about 1 hour until the chocolate hardens.
Cut and Serve
- Once fully set, use a sharp knife to cut the bars into even squares or rectangles.
- Wipe the knife between cuts to ensure clean slices.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Tips for the Best Twix-Inspired Bars
Perfect Shortbread Texture
- Don’t overmix the dough—mix until just combined to avoid a tough crust.
- If the dough is too crumbly, add a teaspoon of milk to help bind it.
Caramel Perfection
- Stir constantly while cooking to prevent burning.
- If you don’t have a candy thermometer, test by dropping a small amount into cold water—it should form a soft ball.
Chocolate Layer Tips
- For a snappier chocolate layer, use tempered chocolate instead of melted chocolate chips.
- If the chocolate is too thick, add an extra teaspoon of oil to thin it.
Variations and Customizations
Salted Caramel Version
- Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the caramel before adding the chocolate layer for a sweet-salty contrast.
Peanut Butter Twix Bars
- Mix ½ cup peanut butter into the caramel layer for a nutty twist.
Dark Chocolate Lovers
- Substitute semi-sweet chocolate with dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) for a richer taste.
Gluten-Free Option
- Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour for a celiac-friendly treat.
Why These Twix Bars Are a Must-Try
- Easier to make than you think – no complicated techniques required.
- Cheaper than store-bought Twix with fresher ingredients.
- Customizable flavors so you can make them exactly how you like.
- Perfect for gifting, parties, or meal-prepped desserts!
These homemade Twix-inspired cookie bars give you the ultimate balance of buttery shortbread, gooey caramel, and luscious chocolate in every bite. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just a sweet craving, they’re guaranteed to be a hit.
Hi, I’m Alan Williams! 🍽️ Welcome to my Food blog! 🍽️ Cooking and eating and exploring is my passion, and I’m excited to share my favorite creations experiences with you. Here, you’ll find a variety of restaurant menus, keto-friendly recipes, mouthwatering dishes made with the Ninja Creami and Ninja Foodi, and plenty of other tasty options. Let’s explore how to make your meals both healthier and more delicious! 🌟
