When the craving for something sweet strikes, there’s nothing quite like the combination of buttery shortbread, gooey caramel, and silky chocolate to satisfy your taste buds. These Homemade Twix Cookies put a delightful spin on the classic candy bar, transforming its irresistible flavors into a warm, fresh-out-of-the-oven treat. Picture this: a soft, crumbly base that melts in your mouth, a rich layer of caramel that pulls at your heartstrings, and a smooth chocolate drizzle that brings it all together. Perfect for brunch gatherings, cookie trays, or simply indulging on a cozy night in, this recipe not only impresses with its taste but also offers a feeling of nostalgia that brings back fond memories of your favorite sweets. Let’s take that candy bar magic and encapsulate it into an unforgettable cookie experience!
Why are TWIX COOKIES a must-bake?
Irresistible echoes of nostalgia: This recipe captures the beloved Twix flavor in a homemade cookie form, bringing back sweet memories of childhood treats.
Baking made simple: With familiar ingredients and easy steps, anyone can whip these up without stress.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to impress everyone!
Versatile variations: Feel free to swap out chocolate types or dress them up with sea salt for a gourmet twist.
Time-saving treat: You can make these ahead of time and even freeze them—deliciousness is just a thaw away!
Twix Cookies Ingredients
• Discover the delightful components!
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For the Shortbread Base
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Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; use salted butter if unsalted is unavailable, but reduce added salt.
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Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and a fine texture to the base; granulated sugar can be used, but the texture will differ.
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Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor complexity; opt for pure vanilla for the best results.
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All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and stability; gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute for gluten-free cookies.
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Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; omit if using salted butter.
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For the Caramel Layer
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Soft Caramels – Gives the signature Twix flavor; consider using homemade caramel or a vegan-friendly version for alternatives.
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Heavy Cream – Adds creaminess to the caramel; substituting with milk will result in a thinner caramel.
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For the Chocolate Topping
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Milk Chocolate Chips – Provides sweetness and chocolate flavor; swap for dark chocolate if you desire a more intense taste.
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Vegetable Oil – Helps achieve a smooth melted chocolate consistency; coconut oil can be used for a different flavor profile.
This combination of ingredients will give you incredible Twix Cookies that rival the store-bought versions!
How to Make Twix Cookies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. A proper preheat ensures even baking across your cookies!
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Cream together the unsalted butter and powdered sugar in a mixing bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a base that melts in your mouth, so take your time.
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Mix in the vanilla extract to infuse the batter with rich flavor. Remember, the better the vanilla, the better the final cookie—all good things start with quality ingredients!
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Add the all-purpose flour and salt gradually, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix; you want a tender base ready to form into delightful cookies!
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Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and flatten them slightly on the prepared baking sheet, or use a round cookie cutter for uniform shapes. Aim for evenly spaced cookies to allow for proper baking.
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Bake for 10-12 minutes until they are just golden around the edges and soft in the center. Let them cool completely on a wire rack so they can firm up beautifully!
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Melt the caramels and heavy cream together in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Spoon the luscious caramel over each cooled cookie and allow it to set for a heavenly added layer.
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Drizzle or spoon melted milk chocolate (and vegetable oil, if using) over the caramel layer to create a glossy finish. Let the chocolate firm up before devouring these delightful treats.
Optional: Sprinkle a touch of sea salt on top for an irresistible salted caramel twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Twix Cookies
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Room Temperature: Keep your Twix Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture.
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Fridge: If you prefer, store them in the fridge for a firmer texture, but they should be consumed within a week for the best flavor.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
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Reheating: To enjoy one of these cookies warm, simply pop it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds after thawing. The chocolate will melt slightly, offering a fresh-out-of-the-oven experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Twix Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the shortbread base up to 24 hours in advance by rolling the dough into balls and refrigerating them in an airtight container. Just before you’re ready to bake, let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes, then flatten and bake as directed. The caramel layer can also be made ahead—store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to finish, simply warm the caramel slightly and spoon it over the cooled cookies, then drizzle with melted chocolate. This way, you’ll enjoy freshly made Twix Cookies without the stress, just as delicious as the day you made them!
Expert Tips for Twix Cookies
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Butter Temperature: Ensure your unsalted butter is at room temperature for easy creaming; cold butter makes it difficult to achieve a fluffy texture.
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Measuring Flour: Fluff up your all-purpose flour before measuring it to avoid compacting and getting more than needed—a common mistake that can lead to dense cookies.
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Cooling Time: Allow your baked cookies to cool completely on a wire rack; this helps them firm up and prevents the caramel from sliding off when added.
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Layering Technique: Use a spoon to evenly distribute the melted chocolate over the caramel. This ensures every cookie gets a decadent finish—increase the joy of each bite of your Twix cookies!
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Storage Tips: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft and moist. For longer storage, freezing is a great option!
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Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to swap chocolate types—the richness of dark chocolate can elevate your Twix cookies even further!
TWIX COOKIES Variations & Substitutions
Customize these delightful cookies to make them truly yours!
- Dark Chocolate: Swap the milk chocolate for dark chocolate chips for a richer, more intense flavor that complements the caramel beautifully.
- Nuts Galore: Incorporate chopped pecans or almonds into the caramel layer for an enticing crunch that adds texture and flavor depth.
- Salted Caramel Twist: Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top before the chocolate sets to elevate the contrast between sweet and salty—a heavenly combination!
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend to ensure everyone can enjoy these treats without compromising on taste or texture.
- Vegan Adaptation: Substitute the butter with vegan butter and the cream with coconut milk for a plant-based version that doesn’t skimp on decadence.
- Coconut Surprise: Mix shredded coconut into the cookie base for a tropical flair that pairs wonderfully with the chocolate and caramel.
- Spiced Up: Add a dash of cinnamon or espresso powder to the batter for a flavor boost that makes each bite even more intriguing.
- Caramel Sauce: Instead of soft caramels, pour homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the cookies for an extra drizzle of deliciousness that’s sure to please!
What to Serve with Twix Cookies?
Enhance your delightful cookie experience with these perfect pairings that will make your treat even more special.
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Cold Glass of Milk: The classic pairing! The cold, creamy sip perfectly counterbalances the sweet and chewy textures of the cookies.
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Rich Coffee: Serve with a fresh cup of coffee to complement the chocolate’s richness and provide a comforting afternoon break.
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Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzle extra salted caramel over each cookie for an indulgent treat that amplifies the already delightful flavors!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream beside your cookie adds a creamy contrast that’s simply irresistible, perfect for a warm dessert.
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Fresh Berries: Sweet, juicy berries like strawberries or raspberries add a delightful tartness that brightens up the cookie’s sweetness.
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Chocolate Milkshake: A thick, chocolatey shake creates a fun twist on the traditional pairing, making every bite of the cookie an unforgettable experience.
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Gourmet Hot Chocolate: Enjoy with a rich, velvety hot chocolate topped with marshmallows for an extra cozy touch during chilly evenings.
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Toasted Pecans: The crunch of toasted pecans adds an enjoyable textural contrast and a delightful nuttiness that plays beautifully with the chocolate.
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Caramel Drizzle Coffee: A warm caramel coffee drink enhances the caramel flavors in the cookies. It’s the ultimate dreamy dessert combo!
Twix Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ingredients for my Twix Cookies?
Absolutely! When choosing the butter, opt for unsalted for better control over the saltiness. Look for heavy cream with at least 36% milk fat for a rich caramel texture. Select soft caramels that are fresh and pliable, avoiding ones that are hard or dry, as they won’t melt well.
How should I store my Twix Cookies, and how long will they last?
These cookies should be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can refrigerate them, but consume within a week for optimal flavor. To keep them fresher for longer, you can freeze them!
Can I freeze my Twix Cookies? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Twix Cookies, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze until firm. Then, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, thaw it in the fridge or warm it slightly in the microwave for that fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.
What should I do if my caramel layer is too runny?
If the caramel is too runny, it may be due to using too much heavy cream or not cooking the caramels long enough. To fix this, melt the caramel at a lower temperature, stirring constantly until it thickens slightly. If more thickness is needed, think about adding a pinch of salt or letting it cool for a few minutes before spooning it over the cookies.
Are these Twix Cookies safe for my pets or for those with allergies?
No, these cookies aren’t safe for pets, especially because of the chocolate and sugar. For allergies, be cautious with ingredients like butter and flour; consider gluten-free flower and dairy alternatives if necessary. Always read labels carefully to ensure safety.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the dough a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This makes it easy to bake fresh cookies whenever the craving strikes. Just roll the dough into balls and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake!
Irresistible Twix Cookies That Beat Store-Bought Any Day
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream together the unsalted butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the vanilla extract to infuse the batter with rich flavor.
- Add the all-purpose flour and salt gradually, mixing until just combined.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and flatten them slightly on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden around the edges and soft in the center.
- Melt the caramels and heavy cream together until smooth and spoon over each cookie.
- Drizzle melted milk chocolate over the caramel layer and allow to set.
- Optional: Sprinkle a touch of sea salt on top for an irresistible twist.