Ultimate Homemade Chocolate Caramel Shortbread Bars

Welcome to the ultimate guide for crafting the most delectable homemade Twix bars you’ll ever taste! Forget those store-bought versions; once you experience the rich, layered perfection of these DIY delights, you’ll never look back. Imagine a buttery, crumbly shortbread cookie base, generously topped with a velvety, chewy caramel, and enveloped in a crisp, luxurious chocolate coating. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an invitation to elevate your dessert game and indulge in a truly gourmet candy bar experience, all made from the comfort of your kitchen in just about an hour of active time.

Making your own Twix bars at home is incredibly rewarding. Not only do you get to control the quality of ingredients, but you also discover how surprisingly simple it is to recreate this beloved classic. The process is straightforward, and the result is a homemade treat that boasts superior flavor and texture, often surpassing its commercial counterpart. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, these homemade Twix bars are a delightful project that promises a sweet payoff. Get ready to impress your friends and family with a confection that tastes like pure magic!

Irresistible Homemade Twix Bars: Your New Favorite Dessert

Crafting these sensational homemade Twix bars requires just 8 simple ingredients, most of which are likely already staples in your kitchen. This recipe delivers an unbelievably satisfying fusion of rich chocolate and gooey caramel, all resting upon a perfectly baked homemade shortbread cookie. The result is a treat so good, it’s virtually irresistible!

My secret to achieving that perfectly chewy caramel layer without the fuss of making it from scratch lies in using caramel baking pieces (not chips!). These melt smoothly and provide the ideal texture, saving you time and effort while guaranteeing a professional-quality result. These chocolate-covered cookie bars capture the quintessential essence of a classic Twix candy bar, but the homemade touch infuses them with an extra layer of deliciousness and a special artisanal charm that store-bought versions simply can’t match. Prepare yourself for a truly elevated snacking experience!

Classic Homemade Twix Bars Recipe

These homemade Twix Bars offer a superior taste experience compared to the store-bought version! Crafted with minimal, readily available ingredients, this iconic chocolate, caramel, and cookie layered candy bar is not only incredibly delicious but also surprisingly easy to whip up in your own kitchen. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or sharing with friends and family!

Prep: 10 minutes

Cook: 20 minutes

Total Time
: 1 hour

Chill: 30 minutes

Servings: 20 bars

Print Recipe

Ingredients

• ¾ cup salted butter (1½ sticks)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 11 ounces caramel baking pieces such as Kraft Caramel Bits (1 bag)
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 3 cups chocolate chips
• 3 tablespoons coconut oil

Equipment

• Kitchen Scale (optional, for precision)
• 8×8 Baking Pan
• Hand Mixer (or stand mixer)
• Baking Sheet

Instructions

• Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to a precise 350°F (175°C). Take an 8×8-inch baking pan and line it thoroughly with parchment paper, ensuring the paper hangs over the edges to create “handles.” This makes for easy removal of the finished bars. Set this prepared pan aside.
  
• Cream Butter & Sugar: In a generously sized mixing bowl, combine the ¾ cup of softened salted butter with ¼ cup of granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer (or a stand mixer with the paddle attachment), cream these two ingredients together until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color. This process incorporates air, giving your shortbread a tender texture.
  ¾ cup salted butter, ¼ cup granulated sugar
  
• Incorporate Vanilla & Flour: Add 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Gradually add 1½ cups of all-purpose flour, mixing on low speed until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough shortbread. The dough should be soft but cohesive.
  1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, 1½ cups all-purpose flour
  
• Form the Crust: Transfer the shortbread dough into the prepared baking pan. Using your fingers or the back of a spoon, evenly press the dough into the bottom of the pan, forming a compact, uniform crust. Ensure it reaches all corners for a neat final product.
  
• Bake the Shortbread: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the center is set. Baking just until golden ensures a tender, buttery cookie. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the shortbread to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
  
• Prepare the Caramel Layer: While your shortbread crust is cooling, it’s time to prepare the luscious caramel. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the 11 ounces of caramel baking pieces (like Kraft Caramel Bits) with 2 tablespoons of heavy cream. Microwave on high in 30-second increments, stirring well after each interval, until the caramel is fully melted and wonderfully smooth. This step ensures a silky, pourable caramel.
  11 ounces caramel baking pieces, 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  
• Add the Caramel: Once the shortbread is completely cool, pour the warm, melted caramel evenly over the top, spreading it gently with a spatula to cover the entire cookie layer. This creates the signature gooey center of your Twix bars.
  
• Chill the Caramel: Transfer the pan to the freezer and chill for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial to allow the caramel to harden completely, making it easy to slice and ensuring it holds its shape beautifully when coated in chocolate.
  
• Melt the Chocolate Coating: In a separate microwave-safe bowl, combine 3 cups of your favorite chocolate chips with 3 tablespoons of coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. The coconut oil helps to create a thinner, more pourable chocolate that will set with a nice snap. Allow the melted chocolate to cool slightly to a lukewarm temperature; this prevents the caramel from melting too quickly when dipped.
  3 cups chocolate chips, 3 tablespoons coconut oil
  
• Slice the Bars: While the chocolate is cooling, retrieve the pan with the chilled shortbread and caramel from the freezer. Using the parchment paper handles, lift the block out of the pan and place it on a cutting board. Carefully slice the large block into individual bars, approximately 1 inch wide. A sharp knife works best for clean cuts through the firm caramel.
  
• Quick Freeze: Arrange the sliced bars on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Return them to the freezer for a few more minutes. This brief chill ensures the caramel remains firm for dipping, preventing it from collapsing into the warm chocolate.
  
• Dip in Chocolate: Once your chocolate has cooled to a lukewarm temperature, it’s time for the fun part! Using two forks, carefully submerge each individual bar into the melted chocolate. Gently turn the bar to ensure it is fully and evenly coated on all sides.
  
• Allow Excess to Drip: Lift each chocolate-coated bar from the bowl, allowing any excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl. This prevents a thick, clumpy coating and ensures a neat finish. Carefully transfer the dipped bars back to the parchment paper-lined baking sheet. This provides a non-stick surface for the chocolate to set without sticking.
  
• Optional Chocolate Drizzle: For an extra touch of elegance and chocolatey goodness, drizzle the tops of the coated bars with any remaining melted chocolate. This creates a beautiful patterned finish, just like the classic candy bar.
  
• Final Set: Return the finished bars to the refrigerator or freezer. Allow them to chill until the chocolate coating is completely firm and set. This will typically take about 15-30 minutes, depending on whether you use the fridge or freezer. Once set, your homemade Twix bars are ready to be enjoyed!
  

Notes for Success

• Always ensure each layer is properly cooled or hardened before adding the next. This is paramount for clean, distinct layers and an easy, mess-free slicing experience. Don’t rush the chilling steps!
• To save time, while the chocolate is cooling after melting, you can begin slicing your caramel-shortbread bars. This efficient timing helps streamline the process.
• A small drizzle of extra melted chocolate on top not only adds visual appeal but also provides an additional burst of delicious chocolatey flavor, making your homemade Twix bars even more decadent.

Storage: For optimal freshness and texture, store your homemade Twix bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. If you wish to enjoy them longer, they can be frozen for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to achieve their perfect consistency.

Nutrition Facts

Homemade Twix Bars Recipe

Amount Per Serving (1 bar)

Calories 258
Calories from Fat 126

% Daily Value*

Fat 14g22%

Saturated Fat 8g50%

Trans Fat 1g

Polyunsaturated Fat 1g

Monounsaturated Fat 2g

Cholesterol 26mg9%

Sodium 106mg5%

Potassium 47mg1%

Carbohydrates 33g11%

Fiber 1g4%

Sugar 23g26%

Protein 2g4%

Vitamin A 241IU5%

Vitamin C 1mg1%

Calcium 26mg3%

Iron 1mg6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Author: Becky Hardin

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Exciting Flavor Variations for Your Homemade Twix Bars

One of the best parts about making your own Twix bars is the freedom to get creative with flavors! These simple variations can transform your classic treat into something entirely new and exciting, catering to every palate and occasion:

• For a sophisticated and irresistible salted caramel Twix, simply add a generous pinch of flaky sea salt to your melted caramel layer before pouring it over the shortbread. The salt beautifully complements and enhances the sweetness of the caramel and chocolate.
• To craft a delightful cookie dough Twix, daringly swap out the traditional caramel layer for a luscious homemade edible chocolate chip cookie dough. Ensure the cookie dough is firm enough to create a distinct layer, offering a wonderfully soft and chewy contrast to the crunchy chocolate.
• For the ultimate nutty indulgence, create a savory-sweet peanut butter Twix. Replace the caramel with a rich homemade peanut butter. You might need to thicken the peanut butter to a spreadable consistency by mixing in a bit of powdered sugar, ensuring it holds its shape as a layer. The combination of peanut butter, shortbread, and chocolate is a match made in heaven.

Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Perfect Homemade Twix Bars

Making these gourmet Twix bars is a journey of delightful layers. Follow these detailed steps to ensure each component is perfect, resulting in a treat that’s truly extraordinary.

Crafting the Perfect Shortbread Crust

Bake the Cookie: Begin by preheating your oven to a precise 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by lining it completely with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This thoughtful step will be your savior when it’s time to lift the entire batch of bars out of the pan. In a large mixing bowl, combine ¾ cup of softened salted butter with ¼ cup of granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer, cream these ingredients together until the mixture is light, airy, and fluffy – this aeration is key to a tender shortbread. Next, stir in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and 1½ cups of all-purpose flour. Mix until the dough just comes together, being careful not to overmix, which can result in a tough crust. Press this soft dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are beautifully golden brown. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the shortbread cool completely on a wire rack. Patience here is crucial; a fully cooled base prevents the caramel from melting prematurely.

The Luscious Caramel Layer

Melt the Caramel: While your buttery shortbread crust cools, turn your attention to the irresistible caramel layer. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 11 ounces of caramel baking pieces (such as Kraft Caramel Bits, which melt beautifully) with 2 tablespoons of heavy cream. Microwave these ingredients in short 30-second increments, stirring thoroughly after each interval, until the caramel is completely melted and boasts a smooth, glossy consistency. This method ensures a perfectly gooey and easy-to-work-with caramel. Once melted, immediately pour the warm, silky caramel evenly over the completely cooled shortbread cookie layer in the pan. Use a spatula to gently spread it from edge to edge. This creates the essential chewy center of your Twix bars. Then, transfer the pan to the freezer and chill for a minimum of 30 minutes, or until the caramel has firmed up significantly. A well-chilled caramel layer is key for clean slicing and prevents it from squishing out during the chocolate dipping process.

Mastering the Chocolate Coating and Assembly

Melt the Chocolate: Now for the grand finale – the chocolate coating! In another microwave-safe bowl, combine 3 cups of your preferred chocolate chips (milk, semi-sweet, or dark work beautifully) with 3 tablespoons of coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring diligently after each, until the chocolate is entirely melted and smooth. The coconut oil adds a lovely sheen and helps the chocolate set with a crisp, firm texture. Allow the melted chocolate to cool slightly to a lukewarm temperature. Dipping the chilled bars into overly hot chocolate can cause the caramel to melt too quickly. While the chocolate is cooling, take the pan containing the shortbread and firm caramel out of the freezer. Using the parchment paper overhang as handles, carefully lift the whole block onto a cutting board. With a sharp knife, slice the large bar into individual 1-inch wide pieces. Next, arrange these sliced bars on a clean, parchment paper-lined baking sheet and pop them back into the freezer for just a few minutes. This quick re-chill ensures maximum firmness for dipping. Finally, using two forks, gently submerge each individual cookie bar into the lukewarm melted chocolate until it’s fully coated. Lift each bar, allowing any excess chocolate to drip off, then transfer it back to the parchment-lined baking sheet. For an extra touch of visual appeal and indulgence, you can drizzle any leftover melted chocolate over the tops of the bars. Return the finished homemade Twix candy bars to the refrigerator or freezer until the chocolate coating is completely hardened. This final chill sets everything perfectly, locking in all the delicious layers.

Dip the Bars: With your chocolate perfectly cooled to a lukewarm temperature and your caramel-shortbread bars well-chilled, it’s time to bring them all together. Using two forks, delicately submerge each individual bar into the melted chocolate bath. Ensure that every side is thoroughly coated, gently turning the bar as needed. The forks allow for easy handling and minimize mess. Once fully enrobed, lift each bar, allowing any surplus chocolate to drip back into the bowl. This helps achieve a smooth, even coating without excessive thickness. Carefully transfer the freshly dipped bars onto a fresh sheet of parchment paper laid out on a baking sheet. The parchment paper is crucial here, as it prevents the chocolate from sticking as it sets, ensuring your bars lift off cleanly.

Set the Bars: To complete your homemade masterpieces, consider adding a final flourish: drizzle the tops of the bars with any remaining melted chocolate. This not only enhances their visual appeal but also adds an extra layer of delightful chocolate flavor. Once adorned, return your Twix candy bars to the refrigerator or freezer. Allow them to chill undisturbed until the chocolate coating is completely firm and crisp. This final setting process typically takes about 15-30 minutes, depending on the temperature of your refrigerator or freezer. Once fully set, your homemade Twix bars are ready to be unwrapped (if you’re saving them) and enjoyed!

Storing Your Homemade Twix Bars for Lasting Freshness

To keep your homemade chocolate caramel candy bars tasting their absolute best, proper storage is key. Once the chocolate coating has fully set, carefully transfer the bars into an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. The cool temperature helps maintain the integrity of the distinct layers, preventing the caramel from becoming too soft and the chocolate from melting. If you’ve made a larger batch or want to enjoy these treats over a longer period, they freeze beautifully! Place the bars in a single layer in an airtight freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to indulge, simply remove the desired number of bars from the refrigerator or freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This allows the shortbread to soften slightly and the caramel to regain its chewy, gooey texture, making for the perfect eating experience.