Name: Twix Cookie Bars Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 2 h 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour; 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar; 1 cup (225g) salted butter, softened; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 can (14 oz / 396g) sweetened condensed milk; 1 ½ cups (270g) semisweet chocolate chips; Sea salt flakes (optional, for sprinkling)

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Introduction

Twix Cookie Bars are a delightful homemade treat combining a buttery shortbread base, a rich caramel layer, and a smooth chocolate topping. Perfectly balanced with a touch of sea salt, these bars satisfy any sweet tooth with familiar Twix-inspired flavors.

The image shows a close-up of square dessert bars with three distinct layers. The bottom layer is a light, crumbly oat base with a slightly rough texture, light beige in color. Above it is a thick, smooth caramel layer, golden amber in color, evenly spread and slightly glossy. The top layer is a rich, dark chocolate with a shiny finish, some pieces have been cut to show the smoothness inside. Small bits of white sea salt are sprinkled on top, contrasting with the dark chocolate. The dessert is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1 cup (225g) salted butter, softened
1 can (14 oz / 396g) sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ cups (270g) semisweet chocolate chips
Sea salt flakes (optional, for sprinkling)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 2: Gradually mix in the flour until the dough just comes together. Press the dough evenly into a lined 9×13-inch baking pan, making sure to pack it down firmly.
Step 3: Bake the dough for 18 to 20 minutes until the edges are golden but the center remains slightly soft. Remove it from the oven.
Step 4: While the base is still warm, pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over it. Use a spatula to spread it smoothly.
Step 5: Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, until the caramel bubbles and turns a light golden color.
Step 6: Let the caramel layer cool for about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, melt the chocolate chips by microwaving in 30-second bursts or using a double boiler until smooth.
Step 7: Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the caramel layer and spread it out. If you like, sprinkle sea salt flakes on top for an extra flavor boost.
Step 8: Chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours until the chocolate has fully set.
Step 9: Using the parchment paper edges, lift the bars out of the pan. Slice into squares or rectangles with a sharp knife warmed under hot water and dried for clean cuts.

Tips & Variations

For a nuttier twist, sprinkle chopped peanuts or almonds on the caramel layer before adding the chocolate.
Use dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet for a richer chocolate flavor.
Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature to achieve a smooth, creamy dough texture.
To avoid cracked chocolate, allow the bars to cool fully before slicing.

Storage

Store the Twix Cookie Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To enjoy softer bars, let them sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. You can also freeze the bars for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a dessert bar with three visible layers. The bottom layer is a light beige crumbly crust with a rough, grainy texture. The middle layer is a thick, smooth, and shiny caramel colored bright orange. The top layer is a dark, glossy chocolate ganache spread evenly, with some small coarse white salt flakes sprinkled on top. A section of the dessert is cut out in the front, showing the clean separation of the three layers. The background uses a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?

Yes, you can use unsalted butter. Just add a pinch of salt to the dough to balance the flavors.

How do I prevent the caramel from bubbling over in the oven?

Make sure to use a well-lined baking pan with parchment paper and keep an eye on the caramel as it bakes. Baking at the recommended temperature and time helps prevent overflow.