Every now and then, a recipe crosses my path that transforms an ordinary day into a sweet celebration, and these Ultimate Twix Style Cookies are just that! The moment I bite into one, I’m greeted with layers of buttery shortbread, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate all together. It’s the kind of indulgence that takes me back to my childhood, munching on store-bought snacks, but with a homemade twist that is far more satisfying.
After a particularly hectic week, there’s nothing better than whipping up a batch of these delightful cookies to share with family and friends. They’re perfect for elevating any gathering, or simply to indulge in during a cozy night in. As the sweet, nutty aroma fills your kitchen, you’ll realize just how easy it is to create these crowd-pleasers from scratch—no complicated techniques necessary! Let’s dive into how to make Twix Style Cookies that will make your taste buds dance and leave you craving more.
Why You'll Love This How To Make Twix Style Cookies
- These Ultimate Twix Style Cookies are incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a batch in no time.
- Each bite is a harmonious blend of buttery shortbread, luscious caramel, and rich chocolate that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
- Their versatility makes them perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or just treating yourself.
- Plus, the delightful layers create an eye-catching dessert that is sure to impress anyone who sees them.
- Overall, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
How To Make Twix Style Cookies
To create these delightful cookies, gather the following ingredients.
For the Shortbread Base
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – ensures a rich, buttery flavor in your cookies.
• ½ cup granulated sugar – adds sweetness to balance the salty shortbread.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – gives structure and a nice crumb to your cookie base.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – enhances the sweetness and flavor profile of the shortbread.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – adds warmth and depth to the cookie dough.
For the Caramel Layer
• ½ cup unsalted butter – adds creaminess and richness to the caramel.
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed – enriches the caramel with a deep, molasses flavor.
• ¼ cup sweetened condensed milk – provides a creamy texture to the caramel layer.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – complements the caramel sweetness beautifully.
• Pinch of salt – balances the sweetness of the caramel to perfection.
For the Chocolate Topping
• 1 ½ cups milk or semisweet chocolate chips – the star of the show that ties all flavors together.
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil – helps the chocolate melt smoothly and stay glossy.
How to Make Twix Style Cookies
-
Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of your delicious cookies once baked.
-
Mix the Dough: In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Then, gradually add in the flour, salt, and vanilla extract until a soft dough forms.
-
Bake the Base: Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake for 18-20 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden brown. Allow the shortbread base to cool completely in the pan.
-
Prepare the Caramel: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir constantly until the mixture becomes smooth and starts to bubble gently.
-
Simmer the Caramel: Let the caramel simmer for about 5-7 minutes while stirring frequently. Once thickened, carefully pour the caramel over the cooled shortbread base and spread it evenly. Let this layer cool completely in the pan.
-
Melt the Chocolate: Using a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals, melt the chocolate until smooth. Add the vegetable oil, stirring until combined.
-
Top with Chocolate: Pour the melted chocolate over the cooled caramel layer, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Let the chocolate set at room temperature, or refrigerate for about 30 minutes, until firm.
-
Slice and Serve: Once the chocolate is set, use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut them into squares or rectangles and serve!
Optional: Drizzle some extra melted chocolate on top for a decorative touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Ultimate Twix Style Cookies?
Creating the perfect dessert experience doesn’t stop at the cookies!
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold vanilla ice cream beautifully balances the rich flavors of the cookies, making each bite a dreamy indulgence.
-
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These fresh, juicy treats add a pop of color and a burst of flavor that complements the sweetness of your cookies splendidly.
-
Espresso or Coffee: A strong cup of coffee or espresso pairs perfectly, cutting through the sweetness while enhancing the chocolate and caramel layers for a luxurious experience.
-
Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of warm caramel sauce over each cookie adds an extra layer of deliciousness that’s irresistible. It’s a sweet symphony on a plate!
-
Nutty Topping: Chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top provide a delightful crunch, giving another texture that contrasts wonderfully with the rich layers.
-
Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with bright berries brings a hint of tartness to the mix, lightening the overall dessert experience beautifully.
-
Milk: A classic pairing, a glass of cold milk enhances the cookie’s flavors while smoothing out the rich sweetness.
These delightful suggestions promise to elevate your Twix Style Cookies experience, creating sweet memories shared with loved ones.
Twix Style Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delicious variations to make your Twix Style Cookies even more special!
-
Nutty Twist: Add 1 cup of finely chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, to the shortbread base for a delightful crunch.
-
Caramel Fudge: Swap the sweetened condensed milk for evaporated milk for a firmer and richer caramel layer.
-
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version without sacrificing taste.
-
Minty Fresh: Mix in ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract into the caramel layer for a refreshing mint chocolate combination.
-
Dark Chocolate Delight: Replace milk chocolate chips with dark chocolate for a more intense and sophisticated flavor.
-
Salted Caramel: Sprinkle sea salt on top of the chocolate layer before it sets to create a perfect sweet and salty balance.
-
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the chocolate for a surprising heat that pairs well with the sweetness! Just a little will do.
-
Flavor Infusion: Experiment with flavored extracts, like almond or hazelnut, in the shortbread dough for an unexpected twist on flavor.
Let your imagination run wild and personalize this recipe to create your perfect treat!
Storage Tips for Twix Style Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will keep them fresh and flavorful for your sweet cravings!
Fridge: If you want them to last a little longer, place the cookies in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for about a week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. After firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your cookies warm, reheat in the oven at low heat for about 5 minutes. This will help restore their soft texture, making them just as delightful as when you first made them!
Make Ahead Options
These Ultimate Twix Style Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the shortbread base and caramel layer up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator to maintain their texture and flavor. Simply press the cookie dough into the baking pan and bake it, then let it cool completely before layering the caramel on top. When you’re ready to finish the cookies, melt the chocolate and pour it over the cooled layers, allowing it to set before cutting into squares. This way, you’ll enjoy that delicious homemade treat with minimal effort on the day you serve them, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Twix Style Cookies, ensure your butter is at room temperature for the best mixing results.
- Avoid overmixing the dough to prevent tough cookies; just combine until you achieve a soft texture.
- Use a candy thermometer to monitor the caramel temperature; you want it to reach a gentle simmer without boiling furiously.
- For the perfect chocolate topping, keep your melted chocolate at a low temperature to maintain its glossy finish and avoid burning.
Ultimate Twix Style Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of butter should I use for the cookie base?
Absolutely! I recommend using unsalted butter when making the shortbread base for these Ultimate Twix Style Cookies. This allows you to control the saltiness in your cookies and ensures a rich, buttery flavor.
How should I store these cookies?
For sure! Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, keep them in the refrigerator where they’ll stay fresh for about a week. Just allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying for the best taste!
Can I freeze the Twix Style Cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can stay for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight, or heat them straight in the oven at a low temperature for about 5 minutes to warm them up!
What if my caramel is too runny?
Not to worry! If your caramel seems too runny, it may not have cooked long enough. To fix this, try simmering it a bit longer while stirring continuously until it thickens and can hold its shape when poured over the cookie base. Aim for a consistency that’s smooth but not overly liquid — it should lightly drape over the shortbread.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Very much so! To make a gluten-free version of these Ultimate Twix Style Cookies, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This will keep the right texture while accommodating any dietary needs.
Are these cookies safe for pets?
It’s important to keep these cookies away from pets. Ingredients like chocolate can be harmful to dogs and cats. Always make sure to share this delicious treat only with human friends and family!
Equipment
- 9x9-inch square baking pan
- medium mixing bowl
- medium saucepan
- double boiler
Ingredients
Shortbread Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened ensures a rich, buttery flavor
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar adds sweetness
- 2 cups all-purpose flour gives structure
- 0.25 teaspoon salt enhances flavor
- 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract adds warmth
Caramel Layer
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter adds creaminess
- 0.5 cup brown sugar, packed enriches the caramel
- 0.25 cup sweetened condensed milk provides creaminess
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract complements sweetness
- 1 pinch salt balances sweetness
Chocolate Topping
- 1.5 cups milk or semisweet chocolate chips ties all flavors
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil helps chocolate melt smoothly
Instructions
How to Make Twix Style Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add flour, salt, and vanilla extract until a soft dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the baking pan and bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Allow cooling completely.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat; add brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and bubbling.
- Simmer caramel for 5-7 minutes, then pour over the cooled shortbread and let cool completely.
- Melt chocolate using a double boiler or microwave, then stir in vegetable oil until smooth.
- Spread melted chocolate over the cooled caramel layer and let set at room temperature or refrigerate for 30 minutes until firm.
- Lift the bars from the pan using parchment paper, cut into squares or rectangles, and serve.
