If you have a sweet tooth and adore decadent desserts, you are going to fall head over heels for this Twix Brownies Recipe. Layers of rich, fudgy brownies meet buttery shortbread crumbs, luscious caramel, and a silky chocolate topping, perfectly mimicking the iconic candy bar in a dessert pan. This recipe is a showstopper at any gathering, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors that keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or treating yourself, these brownies bring that classic Twix magic in every bite, guaranteed to impress and satisfy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Twix Brownies Recipe is straightforward, as each component plays a crucial role in balancing richness, sweetness, and texture. From the butter that brings moisture and tenderness to the cocoa powder that delivers chocolate depth, every item is essential for creating the perfect layered treat.
- 1 cup salted butter (softened): Provides a creamy base and richness to the brownie batter.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the brownies and balances the cocoa bits.
- 4 large eggs: Helps bind the ingredients together and contributes to the brownie’s fudgy texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, fragrant note that enhances all flavors.
- 1/8 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances chocolate flavor.
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: For that deep, rich chocolate taste.
- 1 â…“ cups all-purpose flour: Gives structure to the brownies without making them cakey.
- 1 box (10 ounces) Lorna Doone’s shortbread cookies: Crushed for a buttery, crumbly middle layer.
- 6 ounces cream cheese (softened): Combines with shortbread crumbs to create a smooth, tangy layer.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese and shortbread mix perfectly.
- 1 bag (11 ounces) caramel bits: Melts into a gooey, rich caramel layer that’s simply irresistible.
- 2 Tablespoons milk: Helps melt the caramel bits smoothly and adds creaminess.
- 1 ½ cups milk chocolate chips: For the luscious, chocolatey topping.
- 1 Tablespoon shortening: Ensures the chocolate layer melts smoothly and firms up with a beautiful sheen.
How to Make Twix Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13-inch glass baking pan with non-stick spray to prevent sticking. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Then, add the eggs one at a time with the vanilla extract, mixing just until combined – be careful not to overmix to keep the brownies tender. Gradually incorporate the salt, cocoa powder, and flour into the wet mixture, stirring gently. Pour this decadent batter evenly into your prepared pan, then bake for about 25 to 28 minutes. When they’re done, take the pan out and let the brownies cool completely — this step is essential before adding the next layers.
Step 2: Make the Shortbread Layer
Take your Lorna Doone shortbread cookies and crush them until they become fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a sealed bag and crushing with a rolling pin. Transfer the crumbs to a bowl and add the softened cream cheese and half a cup of sugar. Beat the mixture with a hand-mixer until they’re perfectly combined and smooth. Press this luscious shortbread and cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled brownie layer, creating a rich, buttery middle layer.
Step 3: Create the Caramel Layer
Now for the gooey caramel magic. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramel bits and milk. Heat the mixture in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until the caramel is fully melted and silky smooth. Pour this caramel over your shortbread layer and pop the pan into the fridge to cool completely — this will help the caramel to set nicely without melting into the other layers.
Step 4: Top with Chocolate
For the final layer, melt milk chocolate chips and shortening together in a microwave-safe bowl, again using 30-second intervals and stirring thoroughly until smooth. Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the chilled caramel layer. Return the brownies to the fridge so the chocolate can firm up into a beautiful, glossy finish. Once set, your Twix Brownies are ready to be sliced and shared with delight!
How to Serve Twix Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Twix brownies, consider sprinkling a pinch of sea salt flakes over the chocolate top right after it’s poured, enhancing the sweet and salty contrast that Twix fans love. Alternatively, you could drizzle a bit of extra caramel or melted white chocolate on the surface for a decorative and flavorful flourish.
Side Dishes
Serve these decadent brownies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to balance their rich textures. A steaming cup of coffee or a creamy latte alongside perfectly complements the sweet and chocolaty layers, making dessert time even more indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or giveaways, cut the brownies into small, bite-sized squares and place them in colorful cupcake liners to add charm and ease of serving. You could also assemble individual dessert parfaits by layering brownie chunks with whipped cream and caramel sauce in clear glasses for a playful twist that keeps the Twix Brownies Recipe theme alive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keeping them covered preserves the moisture in the brownies and keeps the caramel from drying out, so each bite stays as decadent as the first.
Freezing
To freeze, first cut the brownies into individual squares and wrap each piece tightly with plastic wrap. Place the wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe container or bag, where they will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture.
Reheating
Enjoy your thawed brownies slightly warmed for that fresh-from-the-oven feel. Heat single portions in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm the whole batch in an oven set to 300°F for 5-7 minutes. Avoid overheating to prevent melting the caramel and chocolate layers too much.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cookie instead of shortbread?
Absolutely! While shortbread gives a buttery texture that complements the other layers perfectly, you can experiment with other mild-flavored cookies like graham crackers or digestive biscuits. Just note that texture and taste will vary slightly.
Is there a way to make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, you can swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking mix, and find gluten-free shortbread cookies to maintain the layers. Make sure all other ingredients don’t contain gluten for a safe and delicious alternative.
Can I make the Twix Brownies Recipe dairy-free?
It’s a bit tricky since butter, cream cheese, and chocolate chips are all dairy-based. However, using dairy-free butter alternatives, vegan cream cheese, and dairy-free chocolate chips can work. The results can still be amazing but expect slight differences in flavor and texture.
What’s the best way to cut these brownies cleanly?
For clean slices, chill the brownies thoroughly until the chocolate and caramel layers are firm. Use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts to avoid dragging melted chocolate and caramel across the slices.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the brownie base a day ahead and keep it chilled. The shortbread layer mix can be made earlier too. Assemble the layers when ready so your Twix Brownies stay fresh and look their best.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Twix Brownies Recipe a try — it’s one of those irresistible treats that brings joy with every bite. The way the layers come together creates a perfect harmony of texture and flavor reminiscent of your favorite candy bar but even better because it’s homemade with love. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a weekend indulgence, these brownies are sure to become a fast favorite in your dessert repertoire. Happy baking and even happier tasting!
Print
Twix Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 13 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Decadent Twix Brownies combine rich homemade chocolate brownies with a creamy shortbread layer, a luscious caramel topping, and a smooth milk chocolate glaze, creating a multi-textured dessert inspired by the classic Twix candy bar.
Ingredients
Brownie Layer
- 1 cup salted butter (softened)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 â…“ cups all-purpose flour
Shortbread Layer
- 1 box (10 ounces) Lorna Doone’s shortbread cookies
- 6 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Caramel Layer
- 1 bag (11 ounces) caramel bits
- 2 Tablespoons milk
Chocolate Layer
- 1 ½ cups milk chocolate chips
- 1 Tablespoon shortening
Instructions
- Prepare Brownie Layer: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch glass baking pan with non-stick spray. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time along with vanilla extract, mixing just until combined. Gradually add the salt, cocoa powder, and all-purpose flour to the wet ingredients, mixing gently to avoid over working the batter. Pour the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan and spread smoothly. Bake for 25 to 28 minutes until set but still moist. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely.
- Create Shortbread Layer: Place the shortbread cookies into a food processor and pulse until they become fine crumbs. Transfer the crumbs into a bowl, add softened cream cheese and sugar, then beat using a hand mixer until fully combined into a creamy mixture. Evenly press this shortbread mixture over the cooled brownie base, forming a firm, even layer.
- Prepare Caramel Layer: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramel bits and milk. Heat in 30-second increments, stirring between each, until the caramel is fully melted and smooth. Pour this warm caramel mixture evenly over the shortbread layer. Refrigerate the pan to allow the caramel layer to cool and set completely to prevent mixing with the next layer.
- Add Chocolate Layer: In another microwave-safe bowl, combine the milk chocolate chips and shortening. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well in between, until melted and smooth. Pour this chocolate mixture carefully over the chilled caramel layer, spreading evenly. Return the pan to the refrigerator to let the whole brownie set firmly. Once set, slice into 24 pieces and serve. Enjoy your indulgent Twix Brownies!
Notes
- Do not overmix the brownie batter to keep the texture tender and fudgy.
- Use a reliable food processor for crushing shortbread cookies finely.
- When melting caramel and chocolate layers, microwave in short intervals to avoid burning.
- Allow each layer to cool and set properly before adding the next to maintain distinct layers.
- Store brownies in the refrigerator to keep caramel and chocolate layers firm.
