Twix Bars
An Irresistible Homemade Treat: Twix Bars
There’s something incredibly rewarding about baking your own delicious confections, especially for special occasions. When I stumbled upon this recipe, I knew it was perfect for my nephew’s graduation party. The Twix Bars were a massive hit, and I have to say, they might just be better than the store-bought version! By combining a couple of recipes and tweaking a few steps, I managed to simplify the process. The result? A treat that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat. Plus, the shortbread cookies are so good, you might want to make a batch just to enjoy on their own!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Twix Bars recipe is a keeper for several reasons. First, the combination of buttery shortbread, creamy caramel, and rich chocolate is simply divine. While it’s not the easiest recipe to whip up, the impressive results are well worth the effort. Plus, with a few little tweaks, the process becomes much more manageable. And did I mention how much better these taste than the packaged ones? Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Whisk
- Plastic wrap
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Fork
- Waxed paper
Ingredients
Shortbread Cookie:
- 1 cup butter, room temperature
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 Tbsp milk
Caramel Filling:
- 3 (5.5-ounce) bags soft caramels (15.5 ounces total)
- 2 Tbsp milk
- Dash of salt
Chocolate Topping:
- 12 oz milk chocolate, cut into pieces (use large Hershey bars)
- 1 tsp Crisco, if needed to soften the chocolate (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- For the shortbread cookie: Cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter and sugar. Then, on low speed, incorporate the milk and vanilla extract.
- Divide the dough in half, wrap each portion in plastic wrap, and refrigerate until the dough is as firm as a stick of butter.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Once the dough is firm, roll it out or press it onto the prepared baking sheet to about a 1/2-3/4 inch thickness.
- Bake for 20-30 minutes, rotating the baking sheet halfway through, until golden.
- For the caramel layer: Unwrap the caramels and place them in a microwave-safe bowl with the milk and a dash of salt. Microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until melted (about 3-4 minutes).
- Pour the melted caramel over the baked shortbread and refrigerate until set.
- Cut the shortbread and caramel layer into Twix-sized pieces or your preferred shape. Freeze them briefly to firm up before dipping.
- For the chocolate coating: Melt the chocolate in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring frequently, or use a double boiler.
- Dip each bar into the melted chocolate and place on waxed paper to set. Refrigerate or freeze to speed up the process.
- Once set, enjoy your homemade Twix Bars! Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, though they likely won’t last long!
Tips for Success
- Ensure the shortbread dough is well chilled before rolling or pressing it out; this makes it easier to handle.
- Microwave the caramels with patience, stirring frequently to avoid scorching.
- Chilling the bars before dipping in chocolate helps maintain their shape.
Additional Tips and Variations
If you prefer a different flavor twist, consider using dark chocolate or adding a pinch of sea salt to the caramel for a salted caramel version. You could also experiment with almond bark for a unique chocolate coating.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
While exact nutritional values will depend on portion sizes, these homemade Twix Bars are a delicious treat to enjoy in moderation. They offer a delightful mix of carbohydrates, fats, and sugars for a satisfying dessert experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use homemade caramel instead of store-bought?
A: Absolutely! Using homemade caramel can add a personal touch and enhance the flavor even more.
Q: How should I store the Twix Bars?
A: Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent the chocolate from melting.
Q: Can I freeze these Twix Bars?
A: Yes, they can be frozen. Just make sure they are well wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Conclusion
These homemade Twix Bars are a delightful treat that will certainly impress anyone lucky enough to try them. The combination of buttery shortbread, creamy caramel, and rich chocolate is irresistible. Give this recipe a try and let me know how it goes! I’d love to hear your thoughts and any variations you come up with. Happy baking!
