There’s something magical about watching someone take that first bite of a homemade candy they didn’t think was possible to recreate at home.
That’s exactly what happened last fall when I made these Homemade Twix Bites for my daughters’ movie night with friends. The room went silent for about three seconds—which, if you know teenage girls, is basically a miracle—and then came the chorus of “Wait, you MADE these?” I nodded proudly, and honestly, I’ve been making them on repeat ever since.
These little beauties capture everything we love about the classic candy bar: buttery shortbread, gooey caramel, and smooth chocolate, all in perfect bite-sized portions. The best part? You don’t need fancy equipment or pastry school skills.
Just a little patience, some good ingredients, and the willingness to let your kitchen smell absolutely heavenly for an afternoon. These Homemade Twix Bites have become my secret weapon for potlucks, holiday gift boxes, and those moments when I want to remind my family that homemade truly does taste better.
Why You’ll Love These Homemade Twix Bites
First off, let me tell you why these copycat Twix candies have earned a permanent spot in my recipe box. They’re surprisingly simple to make, even though they look and taste like something from a fancy chocolate shop. The shortbread base comes together in minutes, the caramel layer is foolproof, and the chocolate coating requires just a gentle melt and drizzle.
Beyond the ease, there’s the flavor—oh, the flavor! Each bite delivers that perfect combination of crunchy, chewy, and creamy that makes the original candy bar so addictive. But when you make Homemade Twix Bites yourself, you control the ingredients.
Real butter, quality chocolate, and a caramel you can actually pronounce the ingredients in. Plus, these little treats are endlessly customizable. Want them a bit saltier?
Done. Prefer dark chocolate? Go for it.
They’re also perfect for making ahead, which means you can stash a batch in the freezer and pull them out whenever you need an impressive dessert without the stress. Whether you’re hosting a party, filling a cookie tin, or just treating yourself on a Tuesday afternoon, these homemade candy bites deliver pure joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the things I love most about this recipe is that the ingredient list is blessedly straightforward. No weird additives or hard-to-find items—just honest, simple ingredients that work together beautifully.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1½ cups | Spooned and leveled |
| Unsalted butter (cold) | ½ cup | Cut into small cubes |
| Granulated sugar | ¼ cup | For the shortbread |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Pure vanilla works best |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon | For shortbread layer |
| Caramel candies (unwrapped) | 11 ounces | About 35-40 caramels |
| Heavy cream | 3 tablespoons | For smooth caramel |
| Chocolate chips | 2 cups | Milk or semi-sweet |
| Coconut oil | 1 tablespoon | Helps chocolate set smoothly |
Substitutions & Variations
I’m a firm believer that recipes should work for your pantry and your preferences, so here are some easy swaps and fun twists for your Homemade Twix Bites.
If you want to skip unwrapping all those caramels—and honestly, I don’t blame you—you can make a quick stovetop caramel instead using sugar, butter, and cream. It takes about ten minutes and tastes incredible. For a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour with a good 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend. I’ve tested this with Bob’s Red Mill, and it works beautifully.
Chocolate lovers can get creative here too. Dark chocolate creates a more sophisticated, less-sweet bite that adults especially appreciate. White chocolate gives you something closer to a blonde Twix variation. You can even do half milk chocolate and half dark for a marbled look that’s gorgeous on a dessert tray.
Want to add a little flair? Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the chocolate before it sets—it’s a game changer. Crushed pretzels mixed into the shortbread add a wonderful salty crunch.
A tiny pinch of espresso powder in the chocolate coating deepens the flavor without making it taste like coffee. And during the holidays, I sometimes add a hint of cinnamon to the shortbread for a cozy, festive touch.
If you’re looking for more delicious recipes that can be customized to your taste, check out this Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread – Perfect for Brunch. It’s another delightful treat that allows for easy swaps and variations.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making these DIY Twix bars is a three-layer process, but don’t let that intimidate you. Each step is simple, and the results are absolutely worth it.
Step 1: Prepare the shortbread base. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the vanilla extract. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
Bake for 18-20 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Let it cool completely in the pan.
Step 2: Make the caramel layer. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the unwrapped caramels and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the caramel is completely melted and smooth.
This usually takes about 2-3 minutes total. Pour the warm caramel over the cooled shortbread and spread it evenly to the edges. Pop the pan in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the caramel firm up.
Step 3: Add the chocolate coating. Once the caramel is set, lift the entire slab out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Place it on a cutting board and cut it into small rectangles—I usually get about 24 bites, but you can make them larger or smaller.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring well between each, until completely melted and smooth. Using two forks, dip each shortbread-caramel bar into the chocolate, coating it completely.
Let the excess drip off, then place the coated bite on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat with all the pieces. Refrigerate the chocolate-covered bites for about 15 minutes until the chocolate is fully set.
Pro Tips for Success
After making these Homemade Twix Bites dozens of times, I’ve picked up a few tricks that make the process even smoother.
First, don’t skip the parchment paper. It makes removing the shortbread slab so much easier and prevents any sticking disasters. When pressing the shortbread into the pan, use the bottom of a measuring cup to really pack it down evenly. This creates a sturdier base that won’t crumble when you cut it.
For the caramel layer, patience is key. Let it cool completely before adding the chocolate, or you’ll end up with a melty mess. If your caramel seems too thick to spread, you can add another tablespoon of cream to thin it out slightly.
When melting chocolate, low and slow wins the race. Overheating can cause the chocolate to seize up and become grainy. The coconut oil helps create a thinner coating that sets with a nice snap, but you can also use a tiny bit of vegetable shortening if that’s what you have on hand.
Cutting the bars before dipping makes the process much neater. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for the cleanest edges. And here’s a little secret: slightly frozen bars are easier to dip without falling apart. I often stick them in the freezer for 10 minutes before the chocolate coating step.
To further enhance your baking skills, consider trying this Homemade Banana Bread Made Easy: Simple & Delicious. It offers great tips that can help streamline your process in the kitchen.
Storage & Reheating Tips
These homemade candy bites store beautifully, which is one reason I love making a big batch. Keep them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for up to 5 days, though in my house, they rarely last that long.
For longer storage, the refrigerator is your friend. The Homemade Twix Bites will keep for up to 2 weeks when chilled. Just let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving—the caramel gets a bit hard when cold, and bringing them to room temp gives you that perfect chewy texture.
Want to stash some for later? These freeze wonderfully for up to 3 months. Layer them in a freezer-safe container with parchment between each layer, and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. I always keep a secret batch in the back of my freezer for unexpected guests or emergency chocolate cravings.
What to Serve With This Recipe
While these copycat candy bars are absolutely perfect on their own, they shine even brighter as part of a dessert spread. I love setting out a platter of Homemade Twix Bites alongside other bite-sized treats like peanut butter balls, fudge brownies, or chocolate-covered strawberries for parties.
They’re wonderful with coffee—the slight bitterness cuts through the sweetness beautifully. A strong espresso or a creamy latte makes them feel like a special café treat. For a cozy evening dessert, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside warm apple crisp.
During the holidays, I arrange these homemade candy bites on tiered serving trays with other festive sweets like peppermint bark and gingerbread cookies. They also make incredible edible gifts. Pop them in a decorative tin lined with tissue paper, and you’ve got a present that beats store-bought any day. My neighbors have started hinting about them as early as October.
For a cozy dessert spread, pair your Homemade Twix Bites with this The Best Homemade Apple Cider Recipe for a Cozy Fall Day. The combination of flavors will elevate your gatherings and make them truly memorable.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of caramel candies?
You can, but the texture won’t be quite the same. Store-bought caramel sauce tends to be thinner and may not set as firmly. If you go this route, choose a thick caramel sauce and simmer it on the stovetop for a few minutes to reduce it slightly before pouring it over the shortbread.
Why is my chocolate coating lumpy or grainy?
This usually happens when chocolate gets overheated or comes in contact with water. Melt your chocolate slowly in short bursts, stirring well between each. Make sure your bowl and utensils are completely dry. Adding a small amount of coconut oil or shortening helps create a smoother consistency.
How do I prevent the caramel from being too hard?
The heavy cream in the caramel keeps it soft and chewy. If your caramel sets too firm, it might need a bit more cream—try adding an extra tablespoon next time. Also, letting the bars come to room temperature before eating makes a big difference in texture.
Can I make these without a microwave?
Absolutely! Melt the caramels in a double boiler on the stovetop, stirring frequently until smooth. For the chocolate, use the same double boiler method—just make sure the water doesn’t touch the bottom of the bowl and keep the heat low.
How far in advance can I make Homemade Twix Bites?
These are perfect make-ahead treats. You can prepare them up to 2 weeks in advance if stored in the refrigerator, or up to 3 months if frozen. They actually taste even better after a day or two, once all the flavors have had time to meld together.
Homemade Twix Bites are a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of a popular candy bar into a homemade version. These bites feature layers of buttery shortbread, rich caramel, and smooth chocolate, making them a favorite for dessert lovers and a great addition to any sweet table. For more on candy making, check out this Candy article.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Based on 24 servings:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 165 |
| Total Fat | 9g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Cholesterol | 15mg |
| Sodium | 55mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 21g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 15g |
| Protein | 2g |
These Homemade Twix Bites prove that some of the best treats are the ones made with your own two hands. They bring together everything I love about home baking: simple ingredients, straightforward techniques, and results that make people smile. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for a special occasion or just because it’s Tuesday and you deserve something sweet, I hope these little candies bring as much joy to your kitchen as they’ve brought to mine. Happy baking, friends!
Homemade Twix Bites
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the vanilla extract. Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 18-20 minutes until lightly golden. Let it cool completely.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the unwrapped caramels and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until melted and smooth. Pour the caramel over the cooled shortbread and spread evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Lift the slab out of the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into small rectangles. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second bursts until melted and smooth. Dip each bar into the chocolate, coating completely, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for about 15 minutes until the chocolate is set.