If you’ve ever dreamed of recreating your favorite candy bar at home, this Homemade Twix Bar Recipe is the ultimate treat. These bars deliver everything you love about the classic—crispy buttery shortbread, gooey caramel, and a silky chocolate coating—all made from scratch with simple ingredients. One bite and you’ll be amazed at how close they are to the real thing, maybe even better!

Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or impressing guests at parties, these Twix bars are surprisingly easy to make. The layers come together effortlessly with a little prep, and the result is a bakery-quality confection you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you serve them chilled for a firmer snap or slightly warm for a melt-in-your-mouth bite, these bars will quickly become a go-to dessert in your home.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Twix Bar Recipe
- Features just three delicious layers: buttery shortbread, luscious caramel, and rich chocolate.
- No preservatives or artificial flavors—just pure homemade goodness.
- Great for holidays, bake sales, or a fun kitchen project.
- Easily customizable (add sea salt, use dark chocolate, or swap in coconut sugar).
- Stores well and travels great—perfect for sharing.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (In this headline mention the essential Tools and Equipment, also the importance of Each Tool)
Before diving into the baking, gather your essential tools. You’ll need a mixing bowl for combining the dough ingredients, a 9×9-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper to form perfect layers and for easy removal, and a saucepan to melt and blend the caramel evenly. A rubber spatula is ideal for spreading layers smoothly, and a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler works best for melting the chocolate without burning it. Lastly, a sharp knife is key for slicing clean, uniform bars once they’ve set.
Preparation Tips
Start by softening your butter to room temperature for an easier blend and smoother shortbread base. Press the dough evenly into the pan to ensure a consistent bake. When making the caramel, patience is key—stir continuously to prevent burning and achieve that signature silky texture. Let each layer cool and set fully before adding the next to avoid melting or shifting. Once chocolate is poured, gently tap the pan on the counter to smooth the surface. For neater slicing, chill the bars thoroughly and use a warm knife for clean cuts.
Ingredients for this Homemade Twix Bar Recipe
For the Shortbread Layer:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Caramel Layer:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Layer:
- 2 cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips (use your favorite)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening (optional, for smoother texture)

Step 1: Make the Shortbread Base
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang on the sides. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add in vanilla extract and mix well. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a crumbly dough forms.
Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with your hands or a spatula. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
Step 2: Cook the Caramel Layer
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, butter, corn syrup, and salt. Stir constantly until the mixture begins to boil. Reduce heat slightly and continue to stir for 7–10 minutes, or until the caramel thickens and turns a deep golden color.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Carefully pour the hot caramel over the cooled shortbread layer and spread it evenly. Let it cool at room temperature for 15–20 minutes, then transfer to the fridge to chill for at least 30 minutes.
Step 3: Melt and Pour the Chocolate Layer
Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. If using, stir in the coconut oil to help the chocolate spread more easily and give it a glossy finish.
Pour the melted chocolate over the chilled caramel layer and use a spatula to spread it evenly. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove air bubbles and smooth the surface. Let the chocolate set at room temperature, or place in the refrigerator for faster results.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
Once the chocolate has fully set, lift the entire block out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Place it on a cutting board and use a sharp knife (run under hot water and dried for cleaner cuts) to slice into bars or squares. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for the best presentation.
Notes
For best results, allow each layer of your Homemade Twix Bars to cool and set completely before moving to the next. The shortbread should be firm and cool to prevent the caramel from soaking in. You can play with flavors by using dark chocolate or adding a pinch of sea salt on top for a sweet-salty twist. These bars are rich, so cut them into small portions to enjoy them without overwhelming your palate. Also, if you like extra crunch, try adding crushed pretzels or crispy rice to the caramel layer before topping with chocolate.
Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking
- Undercooking the shortbread: A pale shortbread means underbaking. Aim for a light golden edge for the right texture.
- Overheating the caramel: Stir constantly and keep the heat at medium to avoid scorching or hardening the caramel.
- Pouring caramel on warm shortbread: Always cool the shortbread first, or the caramel will melt into it.
- Chocolate not setting properly: Ensure the caramel layer is cold before adding chocolate, or it won’t firm up well.
- Cutting before fully set: Give the final product enough time to chill before slicing to avoid cracking or messy bars.
Storage Instructions
Store your homemade Twix bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. They can also be frozen for longer storage—just place parchment between layers to prevent sticking. Let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving to bring out the best texture and flavor. Avoid leaving them in warm environments as the chocolate and caramel layers will soften quickly.
Estimated Nutrition (Per Bar, assuming 20 bars total)
- Calories: ~220
- Total Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Sugar: 18g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of chocolate is best for Twix bars?
Milk chocolate offers the closest taste to store-bought Twix, but you can use semi-sweet or dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
Can I use store-bought caramel?
Yes, you can substitute with thick store-bought caramel, but homemade gives the best taste and texture.
Do I need to refrigerate Twix bars?
It’s best to keep them refrigerated to help the layers stay firm and fresh longer.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use a 9×13-inch pan for a double batch and increase baking/cooking times slightly.
Why is my caramel layer too soft or runny?
It likely didn’t cook long enough. Make sure it reaches a thick consistency before pouring.
Can these be made gluten-free?
Yes—just use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour for the shortbread.
How do I get clean cuts without cracking the chocolate?
Use a sharp knife run under hot water and dried between cuts for smooth slices.
Can I add toppings?
Definitely! Sprinkle flaky sea salt, crushed nuts, or even cookie crumbs on top of the chocolate before it sets.
Conclusion
This Homemade Twix Bar Recipe brings the iconic candy bar right into your kitchen with minimal effort and maximum flavor. With a crispy shortbread base, chewy caramel center, and glossy chocolate topping, these bars are an irresistible homemade indulgence. Perfect for parties, lunchbox treats, or just a cozy night in with something sweet, they’re bound to become a favorite. The best part? You get to control the ingredients and make it just the way you like it!
Homemade Twix Bar Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes + chilling
- Yield: 20 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Craving that irresistible combination of crisp shortbread, gooey caramel, and silky chocolate? This Homemade Twix Bar Recipe is the ultimate DIY candy experience you didn’t know you needed. Perfect for parties, dessert tables, or when you’re just craving a sweet treat, these bars bring the iconic candy right to your kitchen. Whether you’re searching for easy dessert ideas, a quick sweet snack, or a make-ahead party dessert, these homemade Twix bars tick every box. With simple pantry staples and no preservatives, they’re a healthier and tastier alternative to store-bought candy. A must-try for any dessert lover!
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
14 oz sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter
2 tablespoons light corn syrup
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and powdered sugar. Add vanilla, then mix in flour and salt until a dough forms.
3. Press dough evenly into the pan and bake for 18–22 minutes until edges are golden. Let cool completely.
4. In a saucepan, combine sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, butter, corn syrup, and salt. Stir constantly over medium heat until thickened and golden (about 7–10 minutes).
5. Remove caramel from heat, stir in vanilla, and pour over cooled shortbread. Let cool, then chill for 30 minutes.
6. Melt chocolate chips with optional coconut oil until smooth. Pour over caramel layer and spread evenly.
7. Tap pan gently to smooth chocolate. Let set at room temp or chill in the fridge.
8. Once set, lift out of pan and slice into bars with a hot, sharp knife.
Notes
Make sure each layer is fully cooled before adding the next to avoid melting or mixing.
Use a hot, clean knife to cut the bars neatly once chilled.
For extra flavor, sprinkle flaky sea salt or chopped nuts on top before the chocolate sets.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake + Baked shortbread
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
