If you love the classic Twix bar, but want to enjoy it in a fresh homemade way, you’re in for a real treat! This Twix Cookies with Caramel and Chocolate Recipe takes the best parts of that beloved candy—crisp shortbread, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate—and turns them into a crowd-pleasing cookie that you’ll find yourself making over and over. I absolutely love how the caramel layer perfectly balances that buttery cookie base, and the chocolate topping adds just the right finishing touch. Stick with me, and I’ll share all my tips to help you nail this recipe perfectly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Made with easy-to-find basics, no need for specialty items.
- Perfect Texture: That crisp shortbread cookie base pairs beautifully with soft caramel and silky chocolate layers.
- Customizable Toppings: You can swap chocolate chips or caramel types based on what you love.
- Crowd-Pleaser: My family goes crazy for these cookies at any gathering or just as an indulgent treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Twix Cookies with Caramel and Chocolate Recipe work together to create that classic candy bar experience but in cookie form. The key is using a good-quality butter for the shortbread and smooth caramel bits that melt beautifully. Here are the essentials you’ll want to have on hand.
- Butter: Softened to room temperature for easy mixing and that tender shortbread crumb.
- Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps the shortbread dough stay crumbly yet cohesive.
- Vanilla Extract: A subtle background flavor that elevates the cookies.
- All-Purpose Flour: The base to give the shortbread structure.
- Salt: Just a pinch to balance out the sweetness and enhance flavor.
- Caramel Bits: Ready-to-melt caramels that make spreading the caramel topping a breeze.
- Heavy Cream: Added to caramel for silky smoothness.
- Milk Chocolate Chips: For a luscious topping with that familiar sweetness.
- Coconut Oil or Vegetable Shortening: Helps melt and thin the chocolate for perfect spreading and shine.
Variations
I love making this Twix Cookies with Caramel and Chocolate Recipe my own depending on the occasion or what’s in the pantry, and you totally should too! It’s super flexible and forgiving, so don’t hesitate to tweak it your way.
- Chocolate Variation: I sometimes swap the milk chocolate for dark chocolate if I want a richer, less sweet finish—my family eats them just as quickly!
- Caramel Substitute: If you prefer, try dulce de leche instead of caramel bits for a deeper caramel flavor with a slightly different texture.
- Nutty Twist: Adding a sprinkle of chopped toasted almonds or pecans on top after spreading chocolate adds amazing crunch and flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: I once used a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour, and they turned out just as buttery and delicious.
How to Make Twix Cookies with Caramel and Chocolate Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat—this keeps the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easier. In your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar on low speed until everything is well combined and fluffy. Don’t rush the mixing here; it sets the stage for that tender shortbread texture you want.
Step 2: Add the Vanilla and Flour
Next, mix in the vanilla extract to infuse that warm flavor. Then, gradually add your all-purpose flour and salt to the mixer still on low speed. It’s important to stop mixing as soon as the dough comes together—you want it soft but not overworked. This helps keep your cookies crumbly yet sturdy enough to handle the caramel and chocolate toppings.
Step 3: Roll and Cut the Cookies
I like to roll the dough out between two sheets of parchment (or waxed) paper to prevent it from sticking and avoid adding extra flour, which can toughen the cookies. Aim for about 1/4 inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter around 2.5 inches in diameter to cut out your rounds, then place them about an inch apart on your prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake and Cool the Cookies
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes until the edges just start turning golden brown. Every oven is a little different, so keep an eye on them starting at 10 minutes to avoid over-browning. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes—they’ll firm up enough to transfer—and then move them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step is crucial so the caramel doesn’t slip off later.
Step 5: Melt and Spread the Caramel
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine your caramel bits with heavy cream. Microwave for one minute, then stir well. If it’s not smooth yet, continue microwaving in 15-second bursts, stirring after each until the caramel is silky and fully melted. Spoon or spread the caramel evenly over each cooled cookie. Let them sit until the caramel firms up completely; I usually wait about 30 minutes at room temperature or pop them in the fridge to speed things up.
Step 6: Melt the Chocolate and Finish
Once the caramel has set, it’s time for the chocolate. Combine your milk chocolate chips with the coconut oil or vegetable shortening in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 30 seconds, stir, and if needed, continue microwaving for another 30 seconds until smooth. Spread the melted chocolate over the caramel layer evenly. To get a shiny finish, I like to smooth it out with the back of a spoon or an offset spatula.
Let the chocolate set completely before serving. You can leave the cookies at room temperature or place them in the fridge if you’re in a hurry. Both work well, but chilling helps the layers firm up and makes them easier to handle.
Pro Tips for Making Twix Cookies with Caramel and Chocolate Recipe
- Rolling Between Parchment: I discovered that rolling out the dough between parchment paper saves so much cleanup and keeps the dough perfectly moist without extra flour.
- Using Caramel Bits: Using unwrapped caramel bits speeds up melting and gives a smoother caramel topping versus struggling with unwrapping individual squares.
- Chocolate Smoothing Technique: Using an offset spatula to spread chocolate creates a glossy, even finish that makes your cookies look bakery-worthy.
- Avoid Overbaking: Watch the cookie edges closely—bake just until they start to turn golden for the perfect crisp-tender shortbread.
How to Serve Twix Cookies with Caramel and Chocolate Recipe
Garnishes
For garnishes, I occasionally sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on the chocolate just after spreading it—this brightens the caramel and chocolate flavors beautifully. When I want a fun touch, I also drizzle white chocolate or sprinkle crushed toffee bits on top for extra texture and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
These Twix cookies shine as a dessert on their own, but when my family gathers, I love serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a simple cup of hot coffee or milk. For holiday gatherings, I pair them with a platter of mixed nuts and fresh fruit to balance out the indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I like arranging these cookies on a decorative platter lined with colorful parchment paper or festive doilies. Another idea I’ve tried is stacking a few with wax paper between layers and tying them with a ribbon—makes a perfect edible gift! They also look adorable served in small cupcake liners for a party spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftover Twix cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the caramel and chocolate layers firm. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week this way. Just make sure to layer the cookies with parchment paper to prevent the chocolate from sticking together.
Freezing
I recommend freezing these cookies before you add the caramel and chocolate toppings. After baking and cooling, freeze the shortbread bases on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a sealed bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw and proceed with the toppings. Freezing the finished cookies is possible but can cause the chocolate to lose its shine and texture.
Reheating
If you want to soften the cookies a bit after chilling, bring them to room temperature for 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can melt the chocolate unevenly and affect the caramel layer. Instead, enjoy them as they are—cold from the fridge or room temp—both ways they taste fantastic!
FAQs
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Can I use regular caramel squares instead of caramel bits?
Absolutely! If you can’t find caramel bits, unwrapped caramel squares work fine. Just chop them into smaller pieces for quicker melting, or microwave in short bursts while stirring frequently to avoid burning.
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Do I need to chill the dough before baking?
I’ve found that chilling the dough isn’t necessary as long as your kitchen isn’t too warm. Rolling between parchment paper helps keep the dough manageable. But if your dough feels sticky or soft, chilling it for 20 minutes can make cutting easier.
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How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, these cookies stay fresh for up to a week. The chocolate and caramel remain firm and tasty if properly chilled.
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Can I use different types of chocolate for the topping?
Definitely! Milk chocolate works wonderfully for that classic sweet flavor, but dark or semi-sweet chocolate are great choices if you prefer less sweetness or more intense chocolate flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Twix Cookies with Caramel and Chocolate Recipe is one of those special recipes I love sharing because it hits the nostalgic sweet spot and still impresses like a homemade treat. When I first made these, my family went crazy, and I honestly can’t blame them—the blend of textures and flavors is irresistible! Give this recipe a try, and I’m pretty sure they’ll become your new go-to cookie for celebrations or just a cozy weeknight indulgence. Happy baking, friend!
Print
Twix Cookies with Caramel and Chocolate Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in homemade Twix Cookies featuring a buttery shortbread base topped with rich caramel and smooth milk chocolate, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 1/2 cups butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
Caramel Topping
- 11-oz caramel bits
- 1 TBSP heavy cream
Chocolate Topping
- 2 cups milk chocolate chips
- 2 tsp coconut oil or vegetable shortening
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Mix Butter and Sugar: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine softened butter and powdered sugar on low speed until well mixed.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated for a fragrant dough.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: With the mixer on low, gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing just until a soft dough forms without overworking.
- Roll Out Dough: Place the dough between two sheets of parchment or waxed paper and roll it out evenly to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Cut Dough Rounds: Use a 2.5-inch round cookie cutter or biscuit cutter to cut out cookie shapes. Arrange the rounds about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until edges just start to turn golden. Remove from oven and cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Melt Caramel with Cream: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine caramel bits and heavy cream, heating for 60 seconds, then stirring. Continue heating in 15-second increments if needed until the mixture is smooth.
- Spread Caramel on Cookies: Spoon the melted caramel over the cooled cookies, evenly spreading it across each surface. Let the caramel cool completely to set.
- Melt Chocolate with Oil: Combine milk chocolate chips and coconut oil (or shortening) in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 30 seconds, stir, and if necessary, heat for another 30 seconds until smooth and fully melted.
- Top Cookies with Chocolate: Spoon the melted chocolate over the set caramel layer on each cookie and spread to cover. Allow the chocolate to cool and fully set before serving. Refrigerate to speed up setting if desired.
Notes
- Use unwrapped caramel bits available in the baking aisle for convenience or unwrap regular square caramels if needed.
- Choose good quality chocolate chips such as Ghirardelli for best flavor.
- Rolling dough between parchment paper prevents sticking and eliminates extra flour additions.
- If dough feels too soft, chill it for 20 minutes in the refrigerator before rolling, especially in warm conditions.
- For freezing, freeze the shortbread base before adding toppings. After thawing, add caramel and chocolate. Freezing the finished cookies may affect appearance but not taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
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