If you have a sweet tooth and a soft spot for nostalgic candy bars, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Homemade Twix Bites Recipe. It captures all the magic of that classic cookie, caramel, and chocolate combo but in the perfect bite-size form that’s ideal for sharing, snacking, or gifting. From the tender, buttery shortbread base to the rich, gooey caramel center and the luscious chocolate coating, each nibble is a heavenly symphony of textures and flavors that’s guaranteed to brighten up your day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making this Homemade Twix Bites Recipe is beautifully straightforward because it relies on simple pantry staples that pack a powerful punch of flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s building that crispy cookie layer, forming the smooth caramel middle, or creating the glossy chocolate shell.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Forms the sturdy yet tender base for that iconic shortbread layer.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to the shortbread without overpowering it.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Makes the cookie layer rich and melt-in-your-mouth delightful.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk: The secret to that irresistibly creamy, chewy caramel.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Gives the caramel a deep, toasty sweetness and chewy texture.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Works with the brown sugar and condensed milk to ensure smooth caramel.
- 2 tablespoons light corn syrup: Keeps the caramel glossy and prevents crystallization.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the caramel flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups milk or dark chocolate chips: For that luscious, glossy chocolate coating — pick your favorite for a personal twist.
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable oil (optional): Helps to smooth out the melted chocolate for an even, shiny finish.
How to Make Homemade Twix Bites Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Base
Start by mixing the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, softened butter, and salt in a bowl. Work everything together until it forms a crumbly dough that comes together when pressed. Press this dough evenly into a lined square baking pan — this will become your buttery, crisp shortbread foundation. Pop it into the oven and bake until it’s just lightly golden, giving you that perfect crunch once cooled.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Layer
While the shortbread is baking, you can start the caramel. In a saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, butter, and light corn syrup. Stir constantly over medium heat as it thickens and turns luscious and golden. Finish it off with the vanilla extract for that extra burst of flavor. Pour the warm caramel evenly over your baked shortbread and allow it to set.
Step 3: Melt and Coat with Chocolate
Melt the chocolate chips gently using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently. If you want an extra smooth finish, stir in the coconut oil or vegetable oil. Once your caramel is fully set, spread the melted chocolate over the top in a rich, even layer. Chill everything until the chocolate is firm and glossy.
Step 4: Cut and Serve
Once chilled and set, lift the entire block out of the pan using the parchment paper. With a sharp knife, carefully cut into small bite-sized squares. And that’s it — you’ve got yourself a batch of irresistible Homemade Twix Bites Recipe!
How to Serve Homemade Twix Bites Recipe
Garnishes
While these bites are delicious all on their own, you can get creative by sprinkling a pinch of flaky sea salt on the chocolate layer before it hardens. It adds a wonderful contrast and an extra depth of flavor that makes every bite pop. Another fun garnish is a light dusting of finely crushed toffee or crushed nuts for added crunch and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
Homemade Twix Bites pair surprisingly well with a crisp cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk, turning an ordinary snack time into a comforting, indulgent ritual. They also complement a scoop of vanilla ice cream beautifully, adding texture and richness to your dessert. For an adult twist, serve them alongside a caramel or chocolate liqueur.
Creative Ways to Present
Thinking of gifting these or serving them at a party? Arrange your Homemade Twix Bites Recipe on a decorative platter with parchment paper squares between layers to keep them neat. You can also package them in cute mason jars or small gift boxes tied with twine to share the love with friends and family. Or place a few bites in colorful cupcake liners for a charming, bite-sized presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Homemade Twix Bites left (and very likely you will), store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge to keep the chocolate from melting. They should stay fresh and chewy for up to a week.
Freezing
Want to save some for later? Homemade Twix Bites freeze beautifully. Layer them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight to preserve their perfect texture.
Reheating
These bites are best enjoyed as they are, but if you want to gently warm them up to soften the caramel, pop a few in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, or the chocolate might melt too much and make a sticky mess.
FAQs
Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate offers a richer and slightly bitter contrast to the sweet caramel and buttery shortbread, which some people prefer. Feel free to use whichever chocolate best suits your taste.
Do I have to use light corn syrup in the caramel?
Light corn syrup helps prevent the caramel from crystallizing and keeps it smooth, but if you don’t have any, you can substitute with golden syrup or honey, though the texture might vary slightly.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that’s designed for baking, you can enjoy these bites gluten-free. Just make sure your blend includes xanthan gum for structure.
How long does it take to make the entire Homemade Twix Bites Recipe?
The prep takes about 15 minutes, baking and setting combined will take around an hour, including chilling time. It’s definitely worth the wait for those delicious results!
Can I add nuts or other flavors to the recipe?
Yes! You can mix chopped nuts into the shortbread dough for a crunchy twist, or sprinkle nuts on top of the caramel before adding the chocolate. Experimenting with add-ins is a fun way to customize these bites.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Twix Bites Recipe is a little piece of candy bar heaven that you can make right in your own kitchen. It’s truly a crowd-pleaser, straightforward to assemble, and delivers that perfect balance of crunchy, chewy, and chocolatey in every bite. So, grab your ingredients, invite your loved ones, and get ready to make some sweet memories. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become one of your go-to treats for any occasion.
Print
Homemade Twix Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 bites
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Homemade Twix Bites are a delightful treat featuring a buttery shortbread base topped with a rich caramel layer and coated in creamy chocolate. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth in bite-sized portions, these snacks combine the classic flavors of Twix bars made fresh in your kitchen with simple ingredients and no fancy equipment required.
Ingredients
Shortbread Base
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Caramel Layer
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chocolate Coating
- 1 1/2 cups milk or dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable oil (optional, for smoother coating)
Instructions
- Prepare the Shortbread Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, softened butter, and salt. Mix until a smooth dough forms. Press the dough evenly into a lined or greased baking pan to form the base layer. Chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to firm up.
- Make the Caramel Layer: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, unsalted butter, light corn syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir consistently until the mixture thickens and turns a caramel color, approximately 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Assemble the Bites: Pour and spread the warm caramel evenly over the chilled shortbread base. Return the pan to the refrigerator and chill until the caramel is set, about 30 minutes.
- Coat with Chocolate: Melt the chocolate chips and coconut or vegetable oil together in a microwave or double boiler until smooth. Cut the set shortbread and caramel into bite-sized squares. Dip each piece into the melted chocolate ensuring it is thoroughly coated. Place coated bites on parchment paper to set.
- Set and Serve: Allow the chocolate to harden completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator before serving. Store the Twix Bites in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated for longer freshness.
Notes
- Use softened butter for easier mixing of the shortbread dough.
- Chilling the shortbread base before adding the caramel helps prevent mixing and maintains layers.
- The corn syrup in the caramel helps prevent crystallization and keeps it smooth.
- Adding coconut or vegetable oil to the chocolate coating gives a smoother and shinier finish.
- For darker chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Make sure to let chocolate coating set completely before stacking the bites.
