Ultimate Twix-Style Cookies are a fantastic treat that bring together a crunchy cookie base, a layer of gooey caramel, and a generous spread of chocolate on top. These cookies capture the best parts of the classic candy bar in a homemade form that’s perfect for sharing or saving for yourself. The mix of textures—from buttery cookie to chewy caramel and smooth chocolate—makes each bite a real delight.
I love making these cookies when I want a sweet snack that feels a little special but is still easy to whip up. One tip I always follow is to use good quality caramel and chocolate—the difference really shows and makes the cookie extra tasty. Plus, cutting them into squares after chilling is super satisfying because you see all those yummy layers inside.
When I serve these cookies, I like to keep them on a pretty plate and watch everyone’s faces light up with every bite. They’re perfect for parties, gifts, or a cozy afternoon treat with a cup of coffee or milk. These Twix-style cookies always remind me of sharing a classic candy bar but in a way that feels homemade and extra thoughtful.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Butter is key for that soft, chewy cookie base. I always use unsalted to control salt levels, but salted butter works too—just skip the extra salt in the recipe.
Sugars: Using both granulated and brown sugar balances sweetness and moisture. Brown sugar gives chewiness. If you’re out of brown sugar, try coconut sugar for a subtle caramel note.
Caramel: Soft caramels melt smoothly for that gooey layer. If you want a dairy-free option, look for vegan caramels or homemade caramel sauces made with coconut milk.
Chocolate: Semisweet chocolate chips are a great choice here. You can swap milk chocolate for a creamier taste or dark chocolate for richer flavor. Adding butter helps the topping stay glossy.
Twix or Candy Garnish: Chopped candy bars add crunch and style. If you don’t have Twix, use any chocolate caramel cookie candy bars, or even crushed pretzels for a salty twist.
How Do I Get a Perfect Cookie Base with the Right Texture?
The cookie base needs to be soft but sturdy enough to hold layers. Here’s what works for me:
- Soften butter, then cream it with sugars until fluffy—about 3-4 minutes. This traps air for softness.
- Add eggs one at a time for smooth batter.
- Mix dry ingredients gently. Overmixing leads to tough cookies.
- Flatten dough balls slightly before baking for even thickness and texture.
- Watch the oven—take cookies out as soon as edges turn golden but centers still look set. They firm up as they cool.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – I use a large bowl for mixing the dough to make everything easier and less messy.
- Electric mixer or whisk – makes creaming the butter and sugars quick and smooth.
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon – helps shape uniform cookies for even baking.
- Baking sheets – choose flat, rimless sheets for best spreading and easy removal.
- Parchment paper – keeps cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Microwave-safe bowl – for melting caramel and chocolate smoothly.
- Cooling racks – to cool cookies evenly and prevent sogginess.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use dark chocolate or white chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate for different flavor profiles.
- Add chopped nuts like peanuts or pecans for extra crunch and richness.
- Swirl in some peanut butter or caramel sauce into the chocolate topping for added flavor.
- Mix in crushed pretzels or toffee bits on top before the chocolate sets for a salty-sweet twist.
Ultimate Twix-Style Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cookie Base:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Caramel Layer:
- 1 (14-ounce) bag soft caramels or caramel candies
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
For the Chocolate Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips or chopped milk chocolate
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For Garnish:
- 1/2 cup chopped Twix bars or similar chocolate caramel cookie candy bars
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to bake the cookies. Add another 30-40 minutes to spread the caramel, let it set, add the chocolate topping, and let everything chill. Overall, plan for roughly 1 hour from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Cookie Dough:
In a large bowl, beat softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until creamy and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes). Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in vanilla extract.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
3. Bake the Cookies:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop dough balls using a cookie scoop or tablespoon and place about 2 inches apart. Flatten slightly with your hand. Bake for 9-11 minutes or until edges are golden and centers appear set. Cool completely on wire racks.
4. Prepare and Add the Caramel Layer:
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine caramel candies and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until smooth and pourable. Spread warm caramel evenly over cooled cookies (about 1/4 inch thick). Let caramel set 20-30 minutes or chill briefly until firm.
5. Melt and Spread Chocolate:
Combine chocolate chips and butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring each time, until smooth and melted. Spoon or spread chocolate over set caramel layers. While chocolate is still wet, sprinkle with chopped Twix or candy pieces.
6. Chill and Serve:
Let cookies sit at room temperature or refrigerate until chocolate hardens, about 30 minutes. Serve with milk or your favorite drink. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for longer freshness.
Can I Use Any Type of Caramel for the Caramel Layer?
Yes! Soft caramel candies work best because they melt smoothly, but you can also use homemade caramel or caramel sauce. Just make sure it’s pourable enough to spread evenly over the cookies.
Can I Substitute the Chocolate Type?
Absolutely! Semisweet chocolate chips are great, but you can swap in milk chocolate for a sweeter treat or dark chocolate for a richer flavor. Just adjust sweetness as needed.
How Should I Store These Cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, keep them refrigerated, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Can I Make These Cookies Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can bake the cookie base and keep it in an airtight container for a day or two before adding the caramel and chocolate layers. The finished cookies are also great to prepare a day ahead to let the flavors meld beautifully.