Twix-Inspired Caramel Shortbread Cookies

If you’re a fan of the classic Twix candy bar, you’re in for a treat with these homemade Twix-style cookie bars. These delectable bars take all the elements you love about Twix—crisp shortbread, smooth caramel, and rich chocolate—and elevate them into a gourmet dessert that’s easy to make but sure to impress.

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just looking for a sweet indulgence, these cookie bars are the perfect choice. The layering process may seem intricate, but with a bit of patience, you’ll create a dessert that rivals any bakery’s offerings.

Ingredients :

For the shortbread base:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  The butter is the star of the shortbread, lending it a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• ½ cup powdered sugar
  Using powdered sugar instead of granulated ensures a finer, more delicate crumb in the shortbread.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
  Flour provides the structure, keeping the shortbread firm enough to hold the layers above.
• ¼ teaspoon salt
  A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors of the butter and caramel.

For the caramel layer:

• 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
  Sweetened condensed milk forms the base of the caramel, creating a rich, velvety layer.
• ½ cup brown sugar
  Brown sugar deepens the flavor of the caramel, adding a subtle molasses note.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  Butter makes the caramel even more luxurious, adding richness and shine.
• 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
  Corn syrup helps prevent the caramel from crystallizing, ensuring a smooth, glossy finish.

For the chocolate layer:

• 1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  Semi-sweet chocolate provides a perfect balance, cutting through the sweetness of the caramel.
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable oil
  Adding oil to the chocolate helps it set with a glossy finish and makes it easier to cut.

Instructions :

1. Make the Shortbread Base
   Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang on the sides to make lifting the bars out easier later.In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until creamy and smooth. The powdered sugar creates a delicate crumb that practically melts in your mouth. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing just until the dough starts to come together. The dough should be soft but not sticky.Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Use your hands or the back of a spoon to flatten the surface. Prick the dough all over with a fork to prevent it from puffing up during baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the shortbread cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
2. Prepare the Caramel Layer
   While the shortbread cools, start on the caramel layer. In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, butter, and corn syrup. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a gentle boil.Reduce the heat to low and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the caramel thickens and darkens slightly, about 10-15 minutes. The caramel should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Pour the caramel over the cooled shortbread base, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Let the caramel set at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or until firm to the touch.
3. Create the Chocolate Topping
   Once the caramel has set, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips with the coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted.Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer, spreading it out evenly. For a decorative touch, you can use a fork to create swirls or a zigzag pattern in the chocolate. Let the bars sit at room temperature until the chocolate is set, or place the pan in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to speed up the process.
4. Cut and Serve
   Once the chocolate has hardened, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Place them on a cutting board and, using a sharp knife, cut the bars into squares or rectangles, mimicking the shape of Twix bars. For clean cuts, wipe the knife between slices.These gourmet Twix-style cookie bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, though they rarely last that long—they’re that good!

Conclusion :

Gourmet Twix-Style Cookie Bars are the ultimate homemade indulgence, bringing the beloved flavors of the Twix candy bar into your kitchen with a refined twist. The combination of buttery shortbread, rich caramel, and smooth chocolate is a timeless favorite, perfect for any occasion.

These bars are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, making them an ideal dessert for parties, holiday gatherings, or just a special weekend treat.

Once you’ve tried these, you might never reach for a store-bought Twix again. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating something truly special, and don’t be surprised when these cookie bars become a new staple in your dessert repertoire.

Author : Marie-claude