These Easy Homemade Twix Bites are a sweet treat with a crunchy base, silky caramel, and smooth chocolate on top. Perfect for satisfying your candy cravings at home!
Making these is fun and rewarding. I love how they look like little candy bars but are super easy to whip up. Trust me, your friends won’t believe you made them yourself! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-purpose flour: This gives the base its structure. If you’re gluten-free, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour, though results may vary slightly.
Powdered sugar: Besides sweetening, it helps create a soft texture in the shortbread. If you don’t have it, you can blend regular granulated sugar until it’s fine.
Unsalted butter: For a fresher taste, use real butter rather than margarine. If dairy-free, coconut oil is a great substitute, but it will change the flavor slightly.
Caramel candies: You can use store-bought or make your own from scratch. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using date caramel or a vegan caramel made from coconut cream.
Chocolate chips: Semisweet is traditional, but dark chocolate or milk chocolate works too! For a dairy-free option, look for dairy-free chocolate chips.
How Do I Get the Caramel Layer Just Right?
To ensure your caramel layer is perfectly smooth, melting is key! Here’s how to do it:
- Combine caramel candies and heavy cream in a saucepan over low heat. Stir constantly to avoid burning.
- If you prefer the microwave, heat in 20-second intervals, stirring in between to keep it smooth.
- Pour the melted caramel onto the cooled shortbread base without delay so it spreads easily.
Let the caramel layer set for a bit at room temperature before refrigerating. This helps it hold its shape better when you cut the bites later!
Easy Homemade Twix Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup caramel candies or caramel bits
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- 8 ounces semisweet or milk chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or coconut oil (optional, for smoother chocolate coating)
- Sea salt flakes (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 40-50 minutes of active prep time and cooking, plus about 30-45 minutes for chilling. Getting everything set and ready will be quick, and the finishing touches will make them irresistible!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shortbread Base:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix together the flour and powdered sugar. Then, add the softened butter and blend until the dough holds together when pressed but looks crumbly. Press this dough evenly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch square baking pan lined with parchment paper. Bake for 18-20 minutes until the edges turn lightly golden. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
2. Add the Caramel Layer:
While your shortbread base is cooling, it’s time to work on the caramel! Melt the caramel candies with the heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly to keep it smooth. If you prefer using the microwave, place them in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 20-second bursts, stirring in between. Once melted, pour the warm caramel over the cooled shortbread base, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Allow the caramel to set at room temperature for about 15 minutes, then pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to fully firm up.
3. Cut into Bites:
Once the caramel has set, carefully lift the slab from the pan using the edges of the parchment paper. Cut the cooled slab into bite-sized squares using a sharp knife. Aim for about 1-inch pieces to replicate classic Twix sizes.
4. Chocolate Coating:
Next, melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl along with the vegetable or coconut oil if you’re using it. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each, until completely smooth. Now comes the fun part! Dip each square into the melted chocolate, using a fork or dipping tool to ensure they are fully coated. Let any excess chocolate drip off before placing them on a parchment-lined tray. If you want to add a touch of saltiness, sprinkle sea salt flakes on top while the chocolate is still wet.
5. Chill & Serve:
Refrigerate the chocolate-coated bites until the chocolate is set, about 15-20 minutes. Once firm, you can serve them right away or store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Enjoy your homemade, delicious treat!
These bites are a perfect mix of that crunchy shortbread, smooth caramel, and milk chocolate — and they’re super simple to make at home!
Can I Use Different Types of Chocolate?
Absolutely! While semisweet chocolate is traditional, you can use dark chocolate for a richer flavor, or milk chocolate for a sweeter touch. For a dairy-free option, look for dairy-free chocolate chips!
What Can I Substitute for Caramel Candies?
If you don’t have caramel candies, you can use homemade caramel, or even make a quick version using unwrapped soft caramels mixed with a bit of cream or milk. Alternatively, date caramel is a great healthier, vegan option!
How Should I Store Leftover Twix Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. If you prefer them soft, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before indulging!
Can I Make Twix Bites Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the shortbread and caramel layers a day in advance. Just assemble and coat in chocolate when you’re ready to serve!
