Best Twix Cookies: Chewy Caramel, Chocolate & Buttery Shortbread!

Ultimate Twix Style Cookies are more than just a dessert; they are a delightful journey for your taste buds, transforming a beloved candy bar into an irresistible homemade treat. Have you ever wished you could bite into that perfect symphony of crisp shortbread, gooey caramel, and rich milk chocolate, fresh from your own oven? Today, I’m thrilled to share a recipe that promises just that – the unparalleled joy of recreating a confectionery classic in cookie form.

The concept of Twix, with its iconic layers, has captivated chocolate lovers for decades since its introduction. While its origins lie in the packaged snack aisle, the magic truly happens when you craft these layers yourself. There’s a special kind of satisfaction in preparing a cookie that delivers all the nostalgic flavors of your favorite candy bar, but with the superior taste and texture that only homemade baking can provide. People adore this dish not just for its familiar and comforting taste, but also for the incredible interplay of textures: the buttery crumble of the cookie base, the chewy sweetness of the caramel, and the satisfying snap of the chocolate coating.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with These Ultimate Twix Style Cookies

I genuinely believe these cookies stand out because they perfectly balance decadence with the comforting warmth of home baking. Imagine the rich aroma filling your kitchen as these beauties bake, and then that first bite into the ultimate trifecta of flavors and textures. It’s a culinary experience that transcends a simple cookie, offering a gourmet interpretation of a candy bar classic. Get ready to impress everyone, and most importantly, yourself, with this extraordinary recipe!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Shortbread Cookie Base:

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• ¾ cup (90g) confectioners’ sugar (powdered sugar), sifted
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 ¼ cups (270g) all-purpose flour, sifted

• For the Chewy Caramel Layer:

• ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream (full-fat)
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (100g) packed light brown sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• For the Chocolate Topping:

• 1 ½ cups (255g) milk chocolate chips or chopped milk chocolate baking bars
• ½ cup (85g) semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped semi-sweet baking bars
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening (optional, for smoother chocolate)

Crafting the Ultimate Twix Style Cookies: A Step-by-Step Guide

My journey to create the perfect homemade Ultimate Twix Style Cookies has been a delightful adventure, and I’m so excited to share all my tips and tricks with you. Each layer of these cookies – the buttery shortbread, the luscious chewy caramel, and the smooth chocolate coating – comes together to form a treat that truly rivals the classic candy bar. Get ready to bake something truly special!

Phase 1: Preparing the Buttery Shortbread Cookie Base

1. Preheat and Prep Your Pan: First things first, let’s get our oven ready. Preheat your oven to a comfortable 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, take a 9×13 inch baking pan and line it completely with parchment paper. Make sure to leave a generous overhang on the sides – this will act as convenient “handles” later, making it super easy to lift your baked cookie slab out of the pan. A little non-stick cooking spray under the parchment can help keep it in place, but it’s not strictly necessary if your paper is behaving.
2. Creaming the Butter and Sugar: In the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, or using a large bowl and a hand mixer, combine your softened unsalted butter and sifted confectioners’ sugar. Beat these two ingredients together on medium speed until the mixture becomes wonderfully light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. You’ll notice the color lightening, and the texture becoming airy. This creaming step is crucial for incorporating air, which contributes to the tender crumb of our shortbread.
3. Adding Flavor and Salt: Now, let’s infuse some flavor! Add the pure vanilla extract and salt to your creamed butter mixture. Mix again on medium speed for about 30 seconds, just until everything is well combined. The salt helps to balance the sweetness and really brings out the rich butter flavor in our shortbread.
4. Incorporating the Flour: Reduce your mixer speed to low. Gradually add the sifted all-purpose flour to the butter mixture, about a third at a time. Mix only until the flour is just incorporated and a soft dough forms. It’s really important not to overmix at this stage; overworking the gluten in the flour can lead to a tough cookie, and we’re aiming for a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread. The dough might look a little crumbly at first, but it should come together when pressed.
5. Pressing the Dough into the Pan: Transfer the shortbread dough into your prepared 9×13 inch baking pan. Using your hands or the bottom of a flat glass, press the dough evenly into the bottom of the pan. Make sure it’s spread from edge to edge and has a uniform thickness. This might take a few minutes, but patience here ensures an even bake. You want a smooth, compacted surface.
6. Baking the Shortbread: Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it! The shortbread is done when the edges are lightly golden brown, and the center appears set and no longer glossy. You don’t want to overbake it, as it will continue to firm up as it cools.
7. Cooling the Base: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven. Let the shortbread cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This is a critical step; if you try to add the warm caramel to a warm shortbread, things will get messy. Complete cooling allows the shortbread to firm up properly and hold its shape for the next layer. Patience is key for the ultimate texture.

Phase 2: Crafting the Irresistibly Chewy Caramel Layer

This caramel layer is truly what makes these the Ultimate Twix Style Cookies. It’s soft, chewy, and rich – just like the real deal!

8. Gather Your Caramel Ingredients: In a medium-heavy bottomed saucepan, combine the unsalted butter, heavy cream, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and salt. A heavy-bottomed pan helps distribute heat evenly and prevents scorching.
9. Bring to a Boil: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture constantly with a whisk or a heat-proof spatula until the butter melts and the sugars dissolve. Once the sugars are dissolved, bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Continue to boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, for approximately 7-10 minutes.
10. Achieving the Perfect Caramel Temperature: This is where a candy thermometer becomes your best friend. Continue to cook the caramel, stirring occasionally, until it reaches precisely 240°F (115°C). This temperature is known as the “soft ball” stage, and it’s crucial for achieving that signature chewy texture we’re looking for. If you cook it too long, it’ll be hard; too short, and it’ll be runny. Don’t rush this step and trust your thermometer!
11. Adding Vanilla: Once the caramel reaches 240°F (115°C), immediately remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the pure vanilla extract. Be careful, as the vanilla can cause the caramel to bubble up slightly. Stir until it’s fully incorporated.
12. Pouring the Caramel: Carefully and evenly pour the warm caramel mixture over the completely cooled shortbread base in the pan. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to gently spread the caramel to the edges, ensuring a uniform layer.
13. Setting the Caramel: Allow the caramel layer to set completely at room temperature for at least 2-3 hours, or you can speed up the process by placing the pan in the refrigerator for about 1 hour. It needs to be firm enough that it won’t mix with the chocolate when we add the next layer.

Phase 3: The Decadent Chocolate Topping

The final layer seals the deal, creating that iconic snap and delightful contrast to the chewy caramel. This chocolate topping truly completes our Ultimate Twix Style Cookies.

14. Preparing the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the milk chocolate chips and semi-sweet chocolate chips. If you’re using chopped baking bars, ensure they are finely chopped for even melting.
15. Melting the Chocolate (Microwave Method): Heat the chocolate in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval. Continue this process until the chocolate is mostly melted and smooth. Be very careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can seize and become grainy. If it’s almost melted but still has a few small lumps, just keep stirring; the residual heat will usually melt them.
16. Melting the Chocolate (Double Boiler Method – Preferred for Smoothness): For the absolute smoothest, glossiest chocolate, I highly recommend using a double boiler. Place a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water, ensuring the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water. Add the chocolate chips to the bowl. Stir occasionally until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. The gentle indirect heat prevents scorching and yields a beautiful texture.
17. Adding Coconut Oil/Shortening (Optional but Recommended): If you want your chocolate topping to have a slightly softer set and a beautiful sheen, stir in the tablespoon of coconut oil or vegetable shortening after the chocolate is melted. This helps to thin the chocolate slightly and makes it easier to spread smoothly, giving it that professional, glossy finish.
18. Pouring and Spreading the Chocolate: Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the set caramel layer. Using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon, gently spread the chocolate across the entire surface, ensuring it covers the caramel completely from edge to edge. Work relatively quickly, as the cool caramel will cause the chocolate to start setting.
19. Setting the Chocolate Layer: Place the pan in the refrigerator for about 30-60 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely firm. This quick chill helps the chocolate set nicely and makes the cutting process much cleaner.

Phase 4: Cutting and Serving Your Ultimate Twix Style Cookies

20. Lifting the Slab: Once the chocolate is firm, use the parchment paper overhangs as handles to carefully lift the entire slab of Twix-style cookies out of the pan and onto a large cutting board. This step is incredibly satisfying!
21. Warm Your Knife: For the cleanest cuts, run a sharp knife under hot water, wipe it dry, and then make your cut. Re-warm and wipe the knife before each slice. This technique melts the chocolate slightly as it cuts, preventing cracks and creating beautifully crisp edges.
22. Cutting into Bars: Trim off any uneven edges if desired. Then, cut the large slab into individual bars. You can go for traditional candy bar size or smaller, bite-sized squares. I usually aim for about 2 inches wide by 3-4 inches long, but customize to your preference! You’ll be left with about 24-30 bars, depending on how generously you cut them.
23. Storage: Store your incredible Ultimate Twix Style Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage or if your kitchen is particularly warm, they can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. If refrigerated, let them come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor experience.

And there you have it! A truly ultimate treat that combines all the best elements of that classic candy bar in a homemade version that’s even more delicious. Enjoy every single bite of these labor-of-love cookies!

Conclusion:

And there you have it – the journey to creating these truly sensational treats is complete! I truly hope you’ve enjoyed following along with me as we’ve brought together layers of buttery shortbread, luscious caramel, and a decadent chocolate coating. What makes this recipe an absolute triumph, and why I genuinely believe it’s a must-try for every home baker, is the incredible symphony of textures and flavors. Each bite delivers that satisfying crunch from the shortbread, immediately followed by the rich, chewy pull of the caramel, all enveloped in the smooth, melting embrace of chocolate. It’s not just a cookie; it’s an experience, a delightful re-imagining of a beloved classic that elevates simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Trust me, the effort is minimal compared to the immense gratification you’ll feel when you taste these. They’re perfect for satisfying a serious sweet craving, impressing guests, or simply treating yourself to a moment of pure culinary bliss. The balance of salty and sweet, crunchy and gooey, makes these utterly irresistible, and I promise you, they won’t last long once they’re out of the oven.

Serving Suggestions & Creative Variations:

Now that you’ve mastered the art of these delightful cookies, let’s talk about how to best enjoy them and how you can put your own creative spin on them. While they are undeniably perfect on their own, perhaps with a tall glass of cold milk or a steaming cup of coffee, there are so many ways to elevate your indulgence. Imagine crumbling a few over a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an instant gourmet dessert, or even using them as a base for a no-bake cheesecake. For a truly decadent treat, try warming them slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to get that caramel perfectly gooey before serving. They also make an absolutely wonderful homemade gift – arrange them beautifully in a decorative tin, and you’ve got a thoughtful present that speaks volumes of your effort and care. For special occasions, consider arranging them on a dessert platter alongside fresh berries or a drizzle of raspberry coulis for a touch of elegance.

But why stop there? The beauty of baking is in experimentation! You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. For the shortbread layer, try adding a hint of almond extract alongside the vanilla, or even some finely grated orange zest for a citrusy lift. If you’re a fan of a little crunch, sprinkle some toasted chopped pecans or walnuts into the shortbread dough. The caramel layer offers another opportunity for customization: a pinch of sea salt added to the homemade caramel can amplify its richness, or you could even use a different flavored caramel (like a butterscotch or even a spicy ancho chili caramel for the adventurous!). And the chocolate? Oh, the possibilities! While a classic milk chocolate works wonders, consider using dark chocolate for a more intense, less sweet profile, or even white chocolate for a creamier, milder finish. You could also drizzle them with contrasting chocolate, add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the finished chocolate, or even decorate them with festive sprinkles for holidays. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings like crushed pretzels for an extra salty crunch, or a dusting of cocoa powder. This versatility ensures that your baking adventure with these cookies will never be boring.

Your Baking Adventure Awaits!

I genuinely hope this recipe inspires you to get into your kitchen and create something truly special. There’s an immense sense of satisfaction that comes from baking from scratch, especially when the result is as spectacularly delicious as these cookies. Don’t be intimidated; the process is straightforward, and the rewards are absolutely worth it. So, grab your apron, preheat your oven, and prepare to be amazed by the incredible flavors and textures you’re about to unleash. Once you’ve whipped up a batch of these glorious cookies, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you stick to the original recipe, or did you venture into some of the variations I suggested? What was your favorite part of the process, and more importantly, how much did your friends and family adore them? Please share your baking stories, your triumphs, and even your funny kitchen anecdotes in the comments below. Your feedback and creativity truly inspire me, and it helps our community of bakers grow. I’m confident that once you’ve tried your hand at creating these

Ultimate Twix Style Cookies

, they will quickly become a cherished staple in your baking repertoire. Happy baking, my friends, and enjoy every single delightful bite!

Ultimate Twix Style Cookies

Experience the ultimate homemade Twix style cookies with chewy caramel, rich chocolate, and buttery shortbread. This recipe transforms the classic candy bar into an irresistible treat, offering a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Prep Time
1 Hours

Cook Time
45 Minutes

Total Time
45 Minutes

Servings
24-30 bars

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan completely with parchment paper, leaving a generous overhang for handles.
2. Step 2
   In a stand mixer, combine softened unsalted butter and confectioners’ sugar. Beat on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
3. Step 3
   Add vanilla extract and salt to the butter mixture. Mix on medium speed for 30 seconds until well combined.
4. Step 4
   Reduce mixer speed to low. Gradually add all-purpose flour, mixing only until just incorporated and a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
5. Step 5
   Transfer dough to the prepared 9×13 inch pan. Press evenly into the bottom of the pan, ensuring uniform thickness from edge to edge.
6. Step 6
   Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden brown and the center is set.
7. Step 7
   Remove from oven and let the shortbread cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This is crucial for proper setting.
8. Step 8
   In a medium-heavy bottomed saucepan, combine unsalted butter, heavy cream, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and salt.
9. Step 9
   Place saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until butter melts and sugars dissolve. Bring to a rolling boil and continue to boil, stirring occasionally, for 7-10 minutes.
10. Step 10
    Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until caramel reaches 240°F (115°C) on a candy thermometer (soft ball stage). Trust your thermometer!
11. Step 11
    Immediately remove from heat and stir in pure vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Be cautious as it may bubble.
12. Step 12
    Carefully and evenly pour the warm caramel mixture over the completely cooled shortbread base. Gently spread to the edges.
13. Step 13
    Allow the caramel layer to set completely at room temperature for 2-3 hours, or in the refrigerator for about 1 hour, until firm.
14. Step 14
    In a microwave-safe bowl, combine milk chocolate chips and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Melt in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Alternatively, use a double boiler for the smoothest result.
15. Step 15
    For a softer set and glossy finish, stir in 1 tablespoon of coconut oil or vegetable shortening after chocolate is melted.
16. Step 16
    Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the set caramel layer. Gently spread across the entire surface to cover completely.
17. Step 17
    Place the pan in the refrigerator for 30-60 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely firm.
18. Step 18
    Once chocolate is firm, use parchment paper overhangs to carefully lift the entire cookie slab out of the pan onto a cutting board.
19. Step 19
    For cleanest cuts, run a sharp knife under hot water, wipe dry, and then make your cut. Re-warm and wipe before each slice to prevent cracks.
20. Step 20
    Trim uneven edges if desired. Cut the slab into individual bars, aiming for about 2×3-4 inches or customize to your preference. Yields 24-30 bars.
21. Step 21
    Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. If refrigerated, let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.

December 3, 2025 by Melissa