Twix Cookie Bars

These Twix Cookie Bars are not just a treat; they’re a delightful twist on the beloved candy bar. Perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or even just a cozy night in, these bars combine a buttery shortbread base with rich caramel and chocolate layers, making them irresistibly good. Most importantly, they are easy to make at home, allowing you to enjoy a classic candy experience without any fuss.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Shortbread Base
• For the Caramel Layer
• For the Chocolate Topping
• How to Make Twix Cookie Bars
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Shortbread Base
• Step 3: Make the Caramel Layer
• Step 4: Assemble Your Bars
• Step 5: Prepare the Chocolate Topping
• Step 6: Chill and Serve
• How to Serve Twix Cookie Bars
• For a Sweet Snack
• At Parties
• For Movie Nights
• How to Perfect Twix Cookie Bars
• Best Side Dishes for Twix Cookie Bars
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Twix Cookie Bars
• Reheating Twix Cookie Bars
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I customize my Twix Cookie Bars?
• What should I do if my caramel is too runny?
• How do I know when my cookie bars are done baking?
• Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crowd-Pleasing Delight: These bars are sure to impress friends and family alike with their delicious flavors.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, bake sales, or simply as an afternoon snack.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with common pantry staples, these bars are easy to whip up anytime.
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of buttery shortbread, chewy caramel, and rich chocolate creates an indulgent experience.
• Make Ahead Option: These bars can be prepared in advance and stored for later enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your Twix Cookie Bars, gather your tools. Having everything on hand will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Saucepan
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking pan: Ensures even cooking and helps shape your cookie bars perfectly.
• Electric mixer: Makes it easy to cream butter and sugar together for a fluffy texture.
• Saucepan: Ideal for melting ingredients like butter and chocolate smoothly without burning.

Ingredients

These Twix Cookie Bars require a few simple ingredients that come together to create their signature layers.

For the Shortbread Base

• 1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter (room temperature)
• 1 cup (4.5 ounces) powdered sugar
• 2 cups (10 ounces) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Caramel Layer

• 6 tablespoons salted butter
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup light corn syrup
• 1 cup (7.5 ounces) granulated sugar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream (divided)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Topping

• 1 ¼ cups (8 ounces) milk or dark chocolate (see note)
• ⅓ to ½ cup (3.5 ounces) heavy whipping cream (see note)

How to Make Twix Cookie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your shortbread base cooks evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Shortbread Base

1. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Gradually add in the flour, mixing until just combined.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan.
5. Bake for 20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.

Step 3: Make the Caramel Layer

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then stir in the salt, corn syrup, and granulated sugar.
2. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil while stirring constantly.
3. Carefully add in half of the heavy whipping cream, continuing to stir until fully combined.
4. Remove from heat; stir in the remaining cream and vanilla extract.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bars

1. Pour the caramel layer over the baked shortbread base evenly.
2. Let it cool at room temperature for about an hour before refrigerating until fully set.

Step 5: Prepare the Chocolate Topping

1. Melt your chosen chocolate with either remaining heavy cream in a microwave or on a double boiler until smooth.
2. Spread the melted chocolate over the cooled caramel layer.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate again until everything is set properly before cutting into squares or bars for serving.

Enjoy your homemade Twix Cookie Bars!

How to Serve Twix Cookie Bars

Twix cookie bars are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night in, these bars can be served in various ways to enhance your dessert experience.

For a Sweet Snack

• Coffee Pairing: Serve alongside a cup of coffee for a delightful pick-me-up. The rich flavors complement each other beautifully.
• Ice Cream Delight: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. The warmth of the bars and cold ice cream create a heavenly contrast.

At Parties

• Dessert Platter: Arrange on a large platter with other desserts for variety. Their unique layers will attract attention and delight guests.
• Individual Wraps: Cut into smaller squares and wrap them individually for easy serving. This makes it convenient for guests to grab and enjoy.

For Movie Nights

• Snack Bowls: Cut into bite-sized pieces and place them in bowls. Perfect for sharing while watching your favorite flick!
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle with extra melted chocolate before serving. This adds an extra touch of sweetness that moviegoers will love.

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How to Perfect Twix Cookie Bars

Perfecting your Twix cookie bars requires attention to detail and care in preparation. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out just right.

• Chill the Shortbread: Allow the shortbread base to chill before baking. This helps it maintain its shape and achieve that perfect texture.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh butter and cream for the best flavor. Quality ingredients make a noticeable difference in taste.
• Control Caramel Temperature: Use a candy thermometer when making caramel to reach the ideal temperature. This ensures it’s chewy but not too hard.
• Let Them Set Properly: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing. This prevents them from falling apart and helps achieve clean edges.

Best Side Dishes for Twix Cookie Bars

When serving Twix cookie bars, pairing them with the right side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the bars, adding color and nutrition.
2. Cheese Platter: A selection of sharp cheeses provides a savory contrast, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your dessert table.
3. Chocolate Fondue: Perfect for dipping! Offer fruits or pretzels alongside melted chocolate for an interactive dessert experience.
4. Whipped Cream: Serve dollops of freshly whipped cream on the side for added creaminess that pairs well with the rich bars.
5. Nuts Mix: A crunchy nut mix provides texture contrast and complements the soft layers of the Twix cookie bars.
6. Milkshake Station: Set up a milkshake bar where guests can blend their favorite shakes, creating fun combinations with their treats!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Twix Cookie Bars turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can make the bars tough. Mix until just combined.
• Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the dough can lead to spreading. Always chill for at least 30 minutes.
• Using incorrect measurements: Accurate measurements are crucial. Use a scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Not letting them cool properly: Cutting too soon can ruin the texture. Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Twix Cookie Bars in an airtight container.
• They will last up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Twix Cookie Bars

• Wrap each bar in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Twix Cookie Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for 10-15 minutes for a warm treat.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars for 10-15 seconds for a quick fix.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, flipping until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Twix Cookie Bars, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I customize my Twix Cookie Bars?

Absolutely! You can add nuts or extra chocolate chips for added flavor.

What should I do if my caramel is too runny?

If your caramel isn’t thickening, allow it to simmer longer while stirring constantly until it reaches the desired consistency.

How do I know when my cookie bars are done baking?

Look for a light golden-brown color around the edges. The center may look slightly soft but will firm up as it cools.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate?

Yes! Dark chocolate will provide a richer flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet caramel.

Final Thoughts

These Twix Cookie Bars are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them to suit your taste preferences. Try adding your favorite toppings or adjust the sweetness level. Enjoy these delightful treats at gatherings or as a comforting snack at home!