Indulgent Twix Cookies: A Decadent Treat for Any Occasion
If you’re a fan of the classic Twix candy bar, then you’re going to love these Twix cookies! Imagine a buttery shortbread base, topped with a layer of gooey caramel, and finished off with a generous coating of rich chocolate. These cookies are the perfect combination of sweet, salty, and downright irresistible. Whether you’re baking up a batch for a special occasion or simply satisfying your sweet tooth cravings, these Twix cookies are sure to delight. So let’s dive into the recipe and get baking!
Ingredients:
For the Shortbread Cookie Base:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Caramel Layer:
- 1 cup soft caramels (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 12 oz (about 2 cups) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
Making the Shortbread Cookie Base:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour, salt, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
- Shape the Dough: Divide the dough into small balls, about 1 tablespoon each. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
Preparing the Caramel Layer:
- Melt Caramels: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the soft caramels and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the caramels are melted and smooth.
- Spread Caramel: Once the cookies have cooled, spread a layer of the melted caramel over the top of each cookie. Allow the caramel to set before proceeding to the next step.
Coating with Chocolate:
- Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and vegetable oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
- Coat Cookies: Dip each caramel-topped cookie into the melted chocolate, ensuring that it is completely coated. Place the coated cookies back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Chill: Place the cookies in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes, or until the chocolate coating is set.
- Enjoy: Once the chocolate has hardened, your Twix cookies are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them as a decadent treat with a glass of milk or cup of coffee.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Storage: Store the Twix cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Customization: Feel free to get creative with the toppings! You can sprinkle crushed nuts, sea salt, or even drizzle additional caramel over the chocolate-coated cookies for extra flair.
- Gift Idea: These homemade Twix cookies make a wonderful gift for friends and family. Package them up in decorative boxes or bags for a thoughtful and delicious present.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: While traditional Twix cookies are not keto-friendly due to their high sugar and carb content, you can try making a keto-friendly version using almond flour, coconut flour, and sugar-free sweeteners. There are many recipes available online that cater to a keto diet.
- Low-Carb Variation: For a lower-carb option, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the shortbread cookie base and use a sugar-free caramel sauce. Additionally, opt for dark chocolate with a higher cocoa content to minimize the sugar content in the chocolate coating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of melting soft caramels? A: Yes, you can use store-bought caramel sauce as a shortcut. However, make sure it’s thick enough to hold its shape on top of the cookies.
Q: Can I freeze Twix cookies for later? A: Yes, Twix cookies can be frozen for later enjoyment. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, separating the layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate for the coating? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite type of chocolate for the coating, whether it’s milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate for a different flavor profile.
Indulge your sweet tooth with these heavenly Twix cookies that boast a buttery shortbread base, a luscious caramel layer, and a generous coating of chocolate. Perfect for special occasions, holiday gatherings, or simply as a treat to enjoy with loved ones, these cookies are sure to impress. With easy-to-follow instructions and endless opportunities for customization, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again. So why wait? Get baking and treat yourself to the ultimate indulgence!