Introduction
If you’re craving a sweet treat that’s homemade and totally irresistible, look no further! These Delicious DIY Twix Bars are packed with layers of crunchy shortbread, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate. Your friends will be begging for the recipe once they take a bite!
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
- For the Shortbread:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Caramel Layer:
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
- For the Chocolate Layer:
- 2 1/2 cups milk chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 bars
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, blend the butter, flour, sugar, and vanilla until a dough forms. Press evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 20 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow to cool completely.
3. For the caramel layer, combine the butter, brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and corn syrup in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until thick and golden. Pour over the cooled shortbread and let it set.
4. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and vegetable oil together until smooth. Pour over the caramel layer and spread it evenly. Allow it to set completely before cutting into bars.
5. Voilà! Slice these decadent bars and enjoy them anytime you need a sweet pick-me-up.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.
Step 2: Make the Shortbread Base
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Blend the ingredients together until a dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
Step 3: Prepare the Caramel Layer
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar, 1 can (14 oz) of sweetened condensed milk, and 2 tablespoons of light corn syrup. Stir constantly as the mixture heats, ensuring it doesn’t stick to the bottom. Continue stirring until the caramel thickens and turns a golden color. Once ready, pour the caramel over the cooled shortbread layer and let it set.
Step 4: Make the Chocolate Topping
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 2 1/2 cups of milk chocolate chips together with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Allow the entire dish to set completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator for a quicker setting.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Once the chocolate layer has fully set, use a sharp knife to cut into bars. Enjoy the decadent homemade Twix bars as a sweet treat whenever you crave something delicious.
Notes
Storage Suggestions
Store the Twix bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
Variations
Feel free to experiment by adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate layer before it sets for a delightful contrast in flavor.
Serving Size
This recipe yields approximately 24 bars, depending on how large you cut them.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can replace milk chocolate chips with dark chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate for a different flavor profile. Make sure to adjust the vegetable oil accordingly for desired consistency.
Cook techniques
Shortbread Preparation
For the shortbread layer, it’s crucial to blend the butter, flour, sugar, and vanilla thoroughly until a smooth dough forms. Press the mixture evenly into the baking pan for consistent baking and texture.
Caramel Creation
To achieve the perfect caramel layer, combine butter, brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and corn syrup in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat while stirring constantly; this prevents the mixture from burning and ensures it thickens evenly.
Chocolate Melting
Melt the chocolate chips and vegetable oil together in a microwave or a double boiler. Stir until smooth, ensuring no lumps remain. The addition of oil will help make the chocolate layer shinier and easier to spread.
Layering Techniques
Once the caramel has set over the cooled shortbread, pour the melted chocolate gently over the caramel layer. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring each piece gets the same delicious coating.
FAQ
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter for the shortbread?
Yes, but it can affect the flavor balance. If using salted butter, consider reducing the added salt in the recipe or omitting it entirely.
How long do the Twix bars last after making?
These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week, or up to two weeks in the refrigerator.
Can I substitute milk chocolate chips for dark chocolate?
Absolutely! You can use dark chocolate chips if you prefer a richer, less sweet flavor for the top layer.
What can I do if the caramel is too runny?
If your caramel is too runny, try cooking it a bit longer over medium heat, stirring continuously until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Can I add nuts to the recipe?
Yes! Chopped nuts can be added to the caramel layer for added texture and flavor if you enjoy a crunchy twist.
Conclusion
These homemade Twix bars are the ultimate sweet treat, combining layers of buttery shortbread, gooey caramel, and smooth chocolate. With the right techniques and a bit of patience, you can create a dessert that’s sure to impress!
