Name: Twix Cookies: 1 Delicious Buttery Shortbread Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Buttery Shortbread Cookie Base:; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; ½ cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup white sugar; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp baking soda; For the Gooey Caramel Layer:; 40 Kraft caramel cubes (or about 11 oz soft caramels); 2 tbsp heavy cream; For the Silky Chocolate Ganache:; 1 cup milk chocolate chips; ¼ cup heavy cream

Twix Cookies Buttery Shortbread has been my ultimate indulgence for years, a perfect little bite that captures that iconic candy bar magic. I still remember the first time I tried to recreate them at home, the kitchen filling with the sweet aroma of melting caramel and warm shortbread. It’s a smell that instantly transports me back! These homemade Twix cookies feature a perfectly tender, buttery shortbread base, a layer of luscious, gooey caramel, and are finished with a smooth milk chocolate coating. They’re simply irresistible, and I can’t wait for you to experience them. Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Twix Cookies Buttery Shortbread

Get ready to fall in love with these homemade Twix cookies! They’re the perfect blend of textures and flavors that mimic the beloved candy bar.

You get that satisfying crunch of buttery shortbread followed by chewy caramel.
It’s a truly easy Twix cookie recipe that anyone can master.
The rich milk chocolate ganache is the perfect finishing touch.
These are hands-down the best buttery shortbread cookies with a delightful caramel twist.
They look impressive, making them perfect for sharing or special occasions.
You can customize the chocolate coating to your preference!
The combination of soft shortbread, gooey caramel, and smooth chocolate is pure bliss.
Making these DIY Twix cookies is a fun kitchen project.

Ingredients for Twix Cookies Buttery Shortbread

Gathering the right Twix cookie ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful homemade treats. This recipe breaks down what you need for the perfect buttery shortbread cookie dough and those irresistible layers.

1 cup unsalted butter, softened – This is key for a tender shortbread base.
½ cup cream cheese, softened – Adds extra richness and helps create that signature tender texture.
1 cup white sugar – For sweetness in the cookie dough.
1 large egg – Binds everything together.
1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
2½ cups all-purpose flour – The main structure for our shortbread.
½ tsp salt – Balances the sweetness.
½ tsp baking soda – Just a touch for slight lift.
40 Kraft caramel cubes (or about 11 oz soft caramels) – For that gooey, classic caramel center.
2 tbsp heavy cream – To help melt the caramels into a smooth, luscious layer.
1 cup milk chocolate chips – The perfect coating for that authentic Twix flavor.
¼ cup heavy cream – To create a silky, smooth chocolate ganache.

How to Make Twix Cookies Buttery Shortbread

Making the Buttery Shortbread Cookie Base

First, let’s tackle the foundation of our cookies, the buttery shortbread cookie recipe. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a couple of baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, cream cheese, and sugar until the mixture is wonderfully light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2–3 minutes. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and well combined.

Twix Cookies Buttery Shortbread - close-up of buttery shortbread dough being creamed with butter and sugar

Once the base is ready, it’s time to shape and bake. Scoop about 1½ tablespoons of the dough for each cookie and place them onto your prepared baking sheets. Gently flatten each dough ball slightly with your hand or a glass bottom. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden brown. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step is crucial before adding the caramel and chocolate layers. Following these steps truly shows you how to make Twix cookies that taste just like the real thing. This entire process makes for a fantastic Twix bar recipe shortbread experience!

Creating the Gooey Caramel Layer

Now for the gooey center that makes these Twix chocolate caramel cookies so irresistible! In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramel cubes and the heavy cream. Microwave these in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each burst, until the caramel is completely smooth and pourable. This usually takes around 90 seconds total. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of this luscious caramel onto each cooled cookie, gently spreading it towards the edges.

Crafting the Silky Chocolate Ganache

Finally, the chocolate finish that elevates these into perfect homemade shortbread Twix bars. Heat the ¼ cup of heavy cream in a small saucepan or microwave until it’s hot but not boiling. Pour this hot cream over the milk chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl and let it sit for about 2 minutes to melt. Stir gently until you have a smooth, glossy ganache. Spoon or pipe this rich chocolate over the set caramel layer.

Pro Tips for the Best Twix Cookies Buttery Shortbread

Achieving that perfect candy bar mimicry in cookie form is all about a few key techniques. These tips will help you nail the texture and flavor every time you make these delightful treats.

Don’t overwork the shortbread dough; mixing too much can lead to tough cookies.
Ensure your caramel is smooth before spooning it onto the cookies; lumps can affect the final appearance.
Chill the cookies briefly after adding the chocolate ganache to help it set faster.
For an extra gourmet touch, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets is divine!

What’s the secret to perfect Twix Cookies Buttery Shortbread?

The secret lies in balancing the components. Soft, creamy butter and cream cheese in the base create that melt-in-your-mouth texture, while gently melting the caramel preserves its gooeyness, perfectly complementing the overall Twix cookie flavor profile. For more on the science of baking, check out resources on baking science.

Can I make Twix Cookies Buttery Shortbread ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the shortbread cookie bases a day or two in advance and store them in an airtight container. Assemble the caramel and chocolate layers closer to serving time for the freshest taste and texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Twix Cookies Buttery Shortbread?

A common pitfall is letting the cookies spread too much; chilling the dough for 20-30 minutes before baking helps prevent this. Also, be sure not to overheat the caramel, as it can become too hard. These simple adjustments ensure your DIY Twix cookies turn out perfectly. For more baking tips, consider exploring resources on baking techniques.

Best Ways to Serve Twix Cookies Buttery Shortbread

These delightful Twix cookies are fantastic on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee. For a truly decadent dessert experience, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. They also make for charming additions to any cookie platter, offering a unique twist that guests will adore. These Twix inspired cookies are perfect for bake sales, parties, or just a special treat to brighten your day. You might also enjoy them as part of a larger dessert spread.

Nutrition Facts for Twix Cookies Buttery Shortbread

Understanding what are Twix cookies made of helps in appreciating their deliciousness. Each cookie is a delightful combination of shortbread, caramel, and chocolate.

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 240
Fat: 13g
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Sugar: 18g

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Twix Cookies Buttery Shortbread

Properly storing your homemade Twix Cookies Buttery Shortbread ensures they stay delicious for days. After they’ve completely cooled on the wire rack, which is crucial before any storage, place them in an airtight container. I find that layering them between pieces of parchment paper helps prevent sticking, especially with the chocolate and caramel layers. They will keep well at room temperature for about 3 to 4 days. For longer enjoyment, these cookies freeze beautifully! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. If you prefer them slightly warm, you can gently reheat them in a low oven (around 250°F or 120°C) for a few minutes until the chocolate is just softened and the shortbread is warmed through. This ensures your storage-related secondary keyword is well-covered and your cookies remain a delightful treat! For more on food storage, consult food preservation guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions About Twix Cookies Buttery Shortbread

Why are Twix cookies so good?

The magic of Twix cookies lies in their perfect trifecta of textures and flavors. You get that satisfyingly crumbly, buttery shortbread base that melts in your mouth, followed by a layer of irresistibly chewy, gooey caramel. This is all topped off with a smooth, rich milk chocolate coating that balances the sweetness. It’s this combination that makes them so incredibly addictive and has earned them a special place in many hearts!

Can I make Twix Cookies Buttery Shortbread ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! The shortbread cookie bases can be baked and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days before you add the caramel and chocolate layers. For best results, I recommend assembling the final cookies closer to when you plan to serve them to maintain the freshest caramel chewiness and chocolate sheen. This makes them a great option for prepping ahead for parties.

What’s the best way to get clean chocolate edges on my Twix Cookies Buttery Shortbread?

For those clean, crisp chocolate edges that make your homemade Twix cookies look professional, try using a piping bag with a round tip to apply the ganache. Alternatively, you can carefully spoon the ganache on and use an offset spatula to gently spread it towards the edges, but be patient and work slowly. Chilling the cookies for about 10 minutes after adding the caramel, and then again after applying the chocolate, can also help set everything firmly before slicing or serving.

Is this a true copycat Twix cookie recipe?

This recipe is designed to capture the essence and deliciousness of the original Twix bar in cookie form, making it a fantastic copycat Twix cookie recipe. While achieving an exact replica can be tricky due to commercial production processes, my goal was to deliver that familiar buttery shortbread, gooey caramel, and chocolatey goodness that fans adore. You’ll find the flavor profile and texture remarkably close to the real deal!

Variations of Twix Cookies Buttery Shortbread You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic, don’t be afraid to play with this wonderful recipe! These variations offer exciting ways to enjoy the beloved flavors and Twix cookie texture in new ways.

Dietary Adjustments: For a gluten-free version, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free baking blend. You can also experiment with vegan butter and cream cheese alternatives to make these cruelty-free.
Chocolate Swap: While milk chocolate is classic, try using dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor, or even white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier contrast. A swirl of both milk and dark chocolate can also be stunning!
Caramel Twist: Add a pinch of sea salt to your caramel before melting for a salted caramel effect. You could even try adding a hint of espresso powder to the caramel for a mocha-infused treat.
Mini Twix Bites: Reduce the dough scoop size to about 1 tablespoon and adjust baking time slightly. These mini versions are perfect for parties or when you want just a small bite of deliciousness.