Twix Cookies: How to Make Them in 30 Minutes
If you have ever found yourself staring at a Twix bar and wishing it had the soft, chewy soul of a fresh-baked cookie, you are in the right place. There is something magical about the combination of buttery shortbread, gooey caramel, and smooth milk chocolate that hits every single taste bud.
The Twix bar actually dates back to 1967 in the UK, originally known as “Raider” before making its way to the US in 1979. While the classic bar is a staple in every vending machine, making Twix Cookies at home elevates those flavors to a gourmet level. These cookies capture that nostalgic “Left Twix vs. Right Twix” debate but in a way that’s much more satisfying to share.
One of the biggest benefits of this specific recipe is its efficiency. While many caramel-based desserts require hours of chilling or complex candy thermometers, these Homemade Twix Cookies are designed to be ready in just 30 minutes. They are budget-friendly, using pantry staples you likely already have, and they look like they came straight from a high-end bakery.
Whether you are prepping for a bake sale, a holiday party, or a late-night craving, this is the best recipe for Twix Cookies you will ever find. Let’s dive into how you can recreate this candy bar classic in your own kitchen.
Table of Contents
Ingredients Section
To get the best Twix Cookies, quality matters. Using real butter instead of margarine and a high-quality vanilla extract will make a noticeable difference in the final flavor profile.
For the Shortbread Cookie Base:
- 1 cup Unsalted Butter: Softened to room temperature.
- 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar: For that classic sweetness.
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour: Spooned and leveled for accuracy.
- 1/4 tsp Salt: To balance the sugar.
- 1 tsp Pure Vanilla Extract: Adds depth to the shortbread.
For the Caramel Layer:
- 11 oz Kraft Caramels: One standard bag, unwrapped.
- 2 tbsp Heavy Cream: This keeps the caramel soft enough to bite through.
- Pinch of Sea Salt: (Optional) For a salted caramel twist.
For the Chocolate Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups Milk Chocolate Chips: To mimic the classic Twix coating.
- 1 tsp Coconut Oil or Shortening: This helps the chocolate melt smoothly and gives it a nice sheen.
Substitutions & Dietary Notes:
- Gluten-Free: Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
- Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter sticks, coconut cream in the caramel, and dairy-free chocolate chips.
- Caramel Shortcut: If you don’t want to melt individual caramels, you can use a thick, high-quality jarred caramel sauce, though it may be slightly messier.
Equipment/Tools Needed
You don’t need a professional kitchen to master Twix Cookies recipes. Here is the basic kit:
- Baking Sheets: Two large rimmed cookie sheets.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Mats: Essential to prevent the caramel from sticking.
- Electric Hand Mixer: Or a stand mixer to cream the butter and sugar.
- Microwave-Safe Bowls: For melting the caramel and chocolate.
- Small Cookie Scoop: To ensure all cookies are uniform in size.
- Wire Cooling Rack: To help the cookies set quickly.
Pro Tip: If you don’t have a cookie scoop, a tablespoon measuring spoon works perfectly to keep your portions even!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps carefully to ensure your Homemade Twix Cookies turn out perfectly every single time.
1. Prep the Oven and Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This is a crucial step because caramel is notoriously sticky, and you want your cookies to lift off easily.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is pale and fluffy (about 2 minutes). Add the vanilla extract and salt, mixing again to combine.
3. Add the Flour
Slowly add the all-purpose flour to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until a soft dough forms. It might look a bit crumbly at first, but keep mixing until it comes together. This creates the shortbread base that makes these the best Twix Cookies.
4. Shape and Bake
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough at a time and roll it into a ball. Place them 2 inches apart on the baking sheet. Use your thumb or the back of a small spoon to make an indentation in the center of each ball. Bake for 10–12 minutes until the edges are just barely golden.
5. Prepare the Caramel
Place the unwrapped caramels and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is completely smooth. This is the heart of all Twix Cookies recipes.
6. Fill the Centers
Spoon a small amount of the melted caramel into the center of each cooled cookie. Work quickly, as the caramel will begin to set as it cools. If it gets too stiff, just pop it back in the microwave for 10 seconds.
7. Melt the Chocolate
In another microwave-safe bowl, combine the milk chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring until silky smooth.
8. Top and Set
Drizzle the melted chocolate over the top of the caramel layer. You can cover the caramel entirely or do a fancy zig-zag pattern. Let the cookies sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes (or 5 minutes in the fridge) until the chocolate is firm.
Expert Tips & Variations
- Don’t Overbake: Shortbread should be pale. If the bottoms turn dark brown, the cookie will be too crunchy and lose that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
- The “Double Melt” Method: If you want a perfectly flat chocolate top, wait for the caramel to set completely before adding the chocolate.
- Salted Twix Variation: Sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt (like Maldon) over the chocolate before it sets. It cuts through the sweetness beautifully.
- Dark Chocolate Twix: Swap the milk chocolate chips for 60% dark chocolate for a more “grown-up” flavor profile.
- Twix “Bars” Variation: If you’re in a rush, press the dough into a 9×9 pan, bake, layer the caramel and chocolate, then slice into bars.
- Avoid Seizing Chocolate: Ensure your bowl and spoon are completely dry. Even one drop of water can cause melting chocolate to “seize” and become a grainy mess.
Nutritional Information
Note: Nutritional values are estimates based on a yield of 24 cookies.
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 2 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fat: 11 g
- Sugar: 16 g
- Fiber: 1 g
Health Benefits:
While these are definitely a treat, the use of real butter provides fat-soluble vitamins like A and E. Using dark chocolate in your variation can also provide antioxidants. Remember, balance is key!
Disclaimer: Please consult with a professional if you have specific dietary requirements or medical conditions.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have leftovers (a rare occurrence with Twix Cookies!), here is how to keep them fresh:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent the caramel from sticking to the bottoms of other cookies.
- Fridge: They stay fresh for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator. Note that the caramel will be firmer when cold.
- Freezing: These cookies freeze beautifully! Place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before eating.
- Reheating: If you like a “warm from the oven” feel, microwave a single cookie for 5–8 seconds. This will soften the caramel and slightly melt the chocolate.
Serving Suggestions
Want to make these Homemade Twix Cookies the star of the show? Try these pairings:
- With a Beverage: Serve with a cold glass of milk, a hot latte, or even a glass of cold brew coffee.
- Ice Cream Sandwich: Smash two cookies together with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream in the middle.
- Dessert Board: Pair them with fresh strawberries and pretzels for a sweet-and-salty snack board.
- Garnish: Add a dusting of cocoa powder or extra crushed Twix bars on top for a professional look.
FAQ Section
Can I use store-bought cookie dough?
Yes, you can use store-bought sugar cookie dough in a pinch. However, for the authentic “shortbread” feel that makes the best recipe for Twix Cookies, the homemade dough is highly recommended.
How do I stop the cookies from spreading too much?
Ensure your butter is “cool” room temperature, not melted. If your kitchen is very warm, chill the dough balls for 10 minutes before putting them in the oven.
What is the best chocolate to use?
Milk chocolate is the traditional choice for Twix Cookies, but semi-sweet or dark chocolate works just as well if you prefer a less sweet cookie.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can bake the cookie bases a day in advance and add the caramel and chocolate toppings the next day.
Mastering Twix Cookies at home is easier than you think, and the result is far superior to anything you’ll find in a plastic wrapper. By combining a buttery shortbread base, a creamy caramel center, and a rich chocolate coating, you create a treat that is truly the best Twix Cookies experience possible.
