Decadent Twix Cookies

Decadent Twix Cookies are a deliciously indulgent treat inspired by the classic candy bar. These buttery shortbread cookies are topped with a smooth layer of caramel and finished with rich melted chocolate, mimicking all the irresistible layers of a Twix bar in cookie form. They’re perfect for parties, holiday trays, or whenever you need a next-level dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Twix Cookies are like a bakery-style version of your favorite candy bar. The combination of tender shortbread, gooey caramel, and silky chocolate makes every bite heavenly. They’re surprisingly easy to make, with minimal ingredients and big results. Plus, they’re crowd-pleasers—kids love them, adults are obsessed, and they look just as impressive as they taste.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Granulated sugar
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Soft caramel candies or homemade caramel
• Heavy cream (for melting the caramel)
• Milk chocolate chips or chopped milk chocolate
• Sea salt (optional, for topping)

directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract, then gradually add the flour and stir until a soft dough forms.
4. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place on the baking sheet. Gently flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass or your palm.
5. Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the edges are just turning golden. Let cookies cool completely.
6. In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt caramels with heavy cream until smooth.
7. Spoon a layer of caramel onto each cooled cookie and allow to set slightly.
8. Melt the chocolate and spread or drizzle over the caramel layer.
9. Sprinkle with sea salt if desired. Let chocolate set completely before serving.

Servings and timing

Yields: 24 cookies

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12–14 minutes
Assembly Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: About 50 minutes

Variations

• Dark Chocolate Twist: Use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate for a richer, slightly bitter contrast.
• Salted Caramel: Stir a pinch of sea salt into the caramel for a salty-sweet flavor.
• Mini Twix Bites: Use a mini muffin pan to bake cookie bases into little cups, then layer with caramel and chocolate.
• Nutty Version: Add a layer of crushed pecans or almonds between the caramel and chocolate.
• Shortbread Alternative: Use a store-bought shortbread cookie as a time-saving base.

storage/reheating

Store Twix Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for up to 10 days if you prefer firmer caramel.
To soften them slightly, let refrigerated cookies sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving. These cookies do not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I use homemade caramel?

Yes, homemade caramel works beautifully and can elevate the flavor even more. Just make sure it’s thick enough to stay on the cookies.

What kind of chocolate works best?

Milk chocolate is traditional for a Twix flavor, but semi-sweet or dark chocolate also work well depending on your preference.

How do I keep the caramel from sliding off?

Make sure the cookies are completely cool before adding caramel, and let the caramel set slightly before topping with chocolate.

Can I freeze Twix cookies?

Yes, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Why is my shortbread dough crumbly?

If the dough is too dry, add a teaspoon of milk or continue mixing—it should come together into a soft, pliable dough.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend designed for baking. The results may be slightly more delicate.

How do I make the cookies perfectly round?

Use a small cookie scoop for uniform dough balls and press with a flat-bottomed glass for even circles.

Should the caramel be completely set before adding chocolate?

Yes, allowing it to set slightly helps the chocolate layer go on more smoothly and prevents mixing.

Can I use store-bought shortbread?

Absolutely. If you’re short on time, store-bought cookies make a great base.

Do I need to refrigerate these?

No, but if your kitchen is warm or you prefer firmer cookies, refrigeration helps keep the layers neat and firm.

Conclusion

Decadent Twix Cookies are everything you love about the iconic candy bar, transformed into an elegant and fun dessert. With a buttery base, gooey caramel center, and silky chocolate top, they deliver a rich, satisfying bite every time. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a party, or just to treat yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

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