There’s nothing quite as delightful as the combination of buttery cookies, rich caramel, and smooth chocolate, and that’s exactly what twix cookies deliver. I remember the first time I made these cookies; the smell filled my kitchen, and I couldn’t wait to indulge. They offer a blend of flavors and textures that is truly irresistible—crispy edges, a soft and chewy center, indulgent caramel, and a luscious chocolate topping. Perfect for a family gathering or a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies are a treat that everyone will love. Plus, the process isn’t too complicated, making them great for bakers of all levels!
Twix cookies combine the essence of the beloved candy bar into a homemade treat that’s perfect for sharing. They have a delicate buttery flavor, enhanced by the sweet caramel and creamy chocolate. What’s more, they’re versatile enough to be dressed up or enjoyed as is.
Why you’ll love this
- They capture the essence of your favorite candy bar.
- Simple ingredients you likely have on hand.
- Perfect for entertaining family and friends.
- Made from scratch, so you know exactly what’s in them.
- They store well for later snacking.
“Tastes incredible and so simple to make.”
Step-by-step overview
Making twix cookies is as straightforward as it is gratifying. You’ll start by preparing the buttery cookie base, followed by a rich caramel layer, and finally, a smooth chocolate topping. Each step builds upon the last, creating a decadent treat that members of the family—young and old—will be excited to devour.
What you’ll need for twix cookies
- 1 1/2 cups butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 11-oz caramel bits
- 1 TBSP heavy cream
- 2 cups milk chocolate chips
- 2 tsp coconut oil or vegetable shortening
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Butter: You can use unsalted butter to control the salt content in your cookies.
- Powdered Sugar: Essential for a smooth cookie texture; granulated sugar is not a suitable substitute.
- Coconut Oil: Can be replaced with vegetable shortening if you prefer.
How to make it
The process of creating these twix cookies is a combination of mixing, baking, and layering flavors. Get ready to enjoy a delicious homemade treat!
- Preheat your oven to 350F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, add your softened butter and powdered sugar. Mix on low speed until well combined.
- Next, add the vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.
- With the mixer still on low, gradually add the flour and salt, mixing just until the dough comes together and is soft.
- Roll the dough out between two sheets of parchment paper, aiming for a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
- Use a round cookie cutter (about 2.5 inches in diameter) to cut out the rounds of dough. Place the dough rounds on your prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are about 1 inch apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges start to turn golden brown. After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, combine the caramel bits and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 60 seconds, then stir. If needed, continue microwaving in 15-second increments until smooth.
- Spoon the melted caramel over each cooled cookie, spreading it out evenly.
- Allow the caramel to cool completely. Meanwhile, combine chocolate chips and coconut oil (or shortening) in another microwave-safe bowl.
- Microwave the chocolate for 30 seconds, stir, and if necessary, heat for an additional 30 seconds until fully melted and smooth.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the cooled caramel, spreading it evenly across the top of each cookie.
- Let the chocolate cool and set completely before serving (you can place them in the refrigerator briefly to speed this up).
Pro Tip: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for a smooth dough texture.
Helpful cooking tips
- For an even baking result, ensure your oven is fully preheated before placing the cookies inside.
- Use a silicone baking mat for easier clean-up and a non-stick surface.
- When microwaving chocolate, always check for doneness to prevent burning, stirring frequently during the melting process.
Serving suggestions
Twix cookies can stand alone as a dessert, but they also pair beautifully with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee. For a fun twist, serve them warmed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an indulgent dessert. Drizzle extra caramel or melted chocolate over the top for added flair.
Storage & reheating tips
To keep your twix cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place the cookies in a freezer-safe container, layered between parchment paper, for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature, or for a warm treat, briefly microwave them.
Food Safety Note: Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours; reheat until steaming hot.
How to fix common issues
- Dry Cookies: If your cookies turn out dry, it may be due to overmixing or overbaking. Keep a close eye on the baking time to achieve a tender texture.
- Bland Flavor: Ensure you’re adding the right amount of vanilla extract; consider a pinch of salt to enhance flavor balance.
- Soggy Bottoms: If the cookies are soggy, they may need additional baking or the oven temperature may need adjusting for even heat distribution.
Creative twists
You can easily adapt the twix cookie recipe to suit different tastes. Consider adding chopped nuts or crushed pretzels for added texture in the cookie layer. For a bit of spice, sprinkle in some cinnamon or add a dash of espresso powder to the dough. Using dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate can also provide a richer flavor.
Common questions
What can I do if my caramel is too thick? If your caramel is too thick after melting, adding a bit more heavy cream can help achieve a smoother consistency.
Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time? Absolutely! You can make the dough up to three days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, let it warm slightly at room temperature before rolling.
Do I need to chill the cookies after baking? While it’s not necessary, letting the twix cookies cool completely after baking helps them firm up and achieve a better texture, especially for stacking or storing.
Baking twix cookies is a delightful way to enjoy a homemade treat that replicates the beloved candy bar. With simple ingredients and steps, these cookies become a favorite in no time. Enjoy them fresh or share them with friends and family, knowing they are sure to impress!
Twix Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a stand mixer, cream butter and powdered sugar on low speed until smooth.
- Add vanilla extract, then gradually mix in flour and salt until a soft dough forms.
- Roll dough between parchment sheets to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut circles using a 2.5-inch cutter and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Cool on the sheet, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Microwave caramel bits with heavy cream for 60 seconds, stirring until smooth. Spread over cooled cookies and let set.
- Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth. Spoon or drizzle over caramel layer.
- Let cookies cool until chocolate is firm before serving or storing.