Prepare to fall in love with these Vegan Twix Cookies, a delightful and healthier reinterpretation of the beloved classic candy bar. Imagine a perfectly crumbly shortbread cookie base, generously topped with a rich, creamy cashew butter caramel, and then enrobed in a thick layer of decadent dark chocolate. Best of all, these indulgent treats are entirely vegan, gluten-free, and made without refined sugars, proving that wholesome ingredients can still deliver incredible flavor. They’re surprisingly quick and easy to whip up, making them the ideal homemade dessert for any occasion, or simply a sweet moment to yourself!

The Sweet Inspiration: A Healthier Twix Obsession

Growing up, the classic Twix bar held a special place in my heart – it was, without a doubt, my absolute favorite candy. The combination of the crunchy cookie, chewy caramel, and smooth chocolate was simply irresistible. While I’ve explored various homemade Twix recipes on the blog before, I wanted to innovate beyond the traditional bar shape. The idea of transforming those iconic flavors into individual cookies sparked an exciting challenge, and I’m thrilled to say these cookies turned out absolutely divine! They capture all the nostalgic taste of a Twix bar in a more convenient, bite-sized form.

What makes this recipe even better is its simplicity. You’ll only need a handful of accessible ingredients, many of which are used across different layers, streamlining your pantry and making the baking process incredibly straightforward. This recipe isn’t just about recreating a favorite; it’s about doing so in a way that aligns with a healthier, plant-based lifestyle, without compromising on that coveted sweet indulgence.

Why You’ll Love These Vegan Twix Cookies

Beyond their delicious taste and striking resemblance to the original, these Vegan Twix Cookies offer a host of benefits that make them a standout dessert:

• Diet-Friendly: Perfectly suited for those following a vegan, gluten-free, or refined sugar-free diet. They cater to various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Crafted with natural, unprocessed ingredients like almond flour, maple syrup, and cashew butter, providing a more nourishing treat.
• Quick & Easy: Despite their layered appearance, these cookies are surprisingly simple to make, requiring minimal prep time and straightforward steps.
• Satisfying & Decadent: Each cookie delivers a trifecta of textures and flavors – a buttery shortbread, gooey caramel, and snappy chocolate – guaranteed to satisfy any sweet craving.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with different nut butters, sweeteners, or chocolate types to suit your preference.
• Freezer-Friendly: They store beautifully in the freezer, making them perfect for meal prep or having a healthy treat on hand whenever a craving strikes.

Essential Ingredients for Crafting Your Vegan Twix Cookies

Creating these delightful cookies relies on a few key ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture. Let’s delve into what you’ll need and why these choices make all the difference:

Almond Flour: The Heart of the Shortbread Base

Almond flour is the star of our shortbread cookie base. Its fine texture and natural oils lend themselves perfectly to creating a tender, light, and slightly chewy center, while also allowing for a delightfully crispy edge. I’ve specifically formulated this recipe with almond flour, and haven’t extensively tested other flours as a direct 1:1 substitute. However, if you’re looking for alternatives due to allergies or availability:

• Ground sunflower seed flour is an excellent nut-free alternative that often behaves similarly to almond flour in gluten-free baking.
• Other **nut flours** (like cashew flour) could potentially work, but may alter the texture slightly.
• Do not substitute with coconut flour or all-purpose flour without significant adjustments to the liquid ratios, as they absorb moisture very differently.

Using blanched almond flour will give you the smoothest cookie texture, but almond meal (which includes the skins) can also be used for a slightly more rustic feel.

Maple Syrup: The Sweetener and Caramelizer

Pure maple syrup isn’t just a sweetener here; it’s fundamental to achieving that authentic caramel-like flavor and gooey texture. Its distinct flavor profile complements the cashew butter beautifully, creating a rich, deep caramel. Maple syrup is also a natural, unrefined sugar, aligning with the healthier ethos of this recipe.

If you don’t have maple syrup on hand, or prefer a different sweetener, any sticky liquid sweetener can be substituted, though it might slightly alter the final flavor:

• Agave nectar is a good vegan option with a neutral flavor.
• Brown rice syrup offers a similar stickiness and a slightly malty flavor.
• Date syrup would add a rich, deep caramel note, though it’s thicker and might require a touch more liquid if used for the caramel layer.

Cashew Butter: The Creamy Caramel Base

Cashew butter is the star ingredient for our luscious caramel layer. Its naturally creamy texture and mild flavor make it an ideal base that blends seamlessly with maple syrup to create a rich, smooth, and perfectly sweet caramel. The neutral taste of cashew butter allows the caramel notes to shine without overpowering them.

However, this recipe is quite flexible when it comes to nut or seed butters. Feel free to experiment with your favorites:

• Almond butter: Will give a slightly nuttier flavor, but works wonderfully.
• Peanut butter: For a peanut butter Twix vibe – absolutely delicious, but be mindful of the stronger flavor.
• Sunflower seed butter (sunbutter): A great nut-free alternative. Ensure it’s a creamy, unsweetened variety for best results.

Just ensure your chosen butter is runny and smooth for the best caramel consistency. If it’s too thick, you’ll definitely need to add a bit of melted coconut oil to achieve that pourable, creamy texture.

Chocolate Chips: The Decadent Topping

The chocolate topping is the final, essential layer that brings the whole “Twix” experience together. I personally adore Hu Kitchen chocolate chips because they are completely refined sugar-free and boast an incredibly rich, deep chocolate flavor. They melt beautifully and provide that satisfying snap when set.

PRO TIP: You can often get a discount on Hu Kitchen products using code “danishealthyeats” – a little perk for enjoying healthier chocolate!

If Hu Kitchen isn’t available, or you have other preferences, any high-quality vegan chocolate chips or chopped vegan chocolate bar will work. Look for brands that are dairy-free and, if you’re adhering strictly to refined sugar-free, check the ingredients carefully. Dark chocolate (70% or higher) often melts and sets well, offering a lovely contrast to the sweet caramel.

Other Supporting Ingredients:

• Coconut Oil: Used in both the cookie and caramel layers. In the cookies, it helps bind the dough and adds a delicate richness. In the caramel, it’s crucial for achieving the right consistency, especially if your nut butter is on the thicker side.
• Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla enhances the flavor of both the shortbread and the caramel, adding warmth and depth.
• Pinch of Sea Salt: Essential for balancing the sweetness and bringing out all the other flavors. Don’t skip it!

How to Make These Vegan Twix Cookies: A Simple Guide

Creating these layered delights is easier than you might think! Follow these steps for perfect Vegan Twix Cookies every time:

1. Prepare the Shortbread Dough: In a medium bowl, combine your almond flour, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla, and a pinch of sea salt. Mix until a cohesive dough forms. It should be firm enough to roll without being sticky.
2. Shape and Bake the Cookies: Scoop spoonfuls of the dough and roll them into small balls. Place them onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Gently flatten each ball with the palm of your hand, then use your thumb to create a slight indentation in the center, which will hold the caramel. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Let them cool completely on the baking sheet before moving. For an even quicker cool-down, pop them in the freezer for a few minutes.
3. Whip Up the Creamy Caramel: While the cookies cool, prepare the caramel. In a small bowl, combine the cashew butter (or your chosen nut/seed butter) and maple syrup. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If your nut butter is very thick, add a tablespoon or two of melted coconut oil to achieve a nice, spreadable consistency.
4. Melt the Chocolate: In a separate small, microwave-safe bowl, melt your chocolate chips. You can do this in 30-second intervals in the microwave, stirring well after each, or using a double boiler on the stovetop until smooth and glossy.
5. Assemble the Layers: Once the cookies are completely cool, spoon a small amount of the prepared caramel mixture onto the center of each cookie, filling the indentation. Spread it evenly.
6. Add the Chocolate Topping: Drizzle or spread the melted chocolate over the caramel layer, ensuring it covers the caramel entirely.
7. Set and Chill: Place the assembled cookies back into the freezer for at least 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate and caramel layers are firm and set.
8. Thaw and Enjoy: Before serving, allow the cookies to thaw for a few minutes at room temperature. This will bring the caramel to a perfectly soft and chewy texture.

Expert Tips for Perfect Vegan Twix Cookies

Even though this recipe is simple, a few expert tips can elevate your baking experience and ensure the most delicious results:

• Don’t Overbake the Shortbread: The key to a tender shortbread base is not to overbake it. Remove the cookies from the oven as soon as the edges turn light golden. They will continue to firm up as they cool. Overbaking can lead to a dry, crumbly base.
• Ensure Cookies are Fully Cooled: It’s crucial that your shortbread cookies are completely cool, preferably chilled, before adding the caramel and chocolate. If they’re warm, the caramel and chocolate will melt and run off, creating a messy situation.
• Adjust Caramel Consistency: The runniness of nut butter can vary greatly between brands. If your cashew butter is very thick, you’ll definitely need the melted coconut oil to achieve a smooth, spreadable caramel. Start with one tablespoon and add more if needed, until it reaches a nice, creamy consistency.
• Quality Chocolate Matters: Using good quality chocolate chips that melt smoothly will make a significant difference in the final taste and appearance of your cookies.
• Achieve a Smooth Chocolate Top: For a super smooth chocolate layer, you can slightly warm the cookies after adding the caramel, then pour the melted chocolate over them and gently tap the baking sheet on the counter to spread it evenly.
• Chill Time is Essential: Don’t rush the freezing step! Allowing the cookies ample time to firm up in the freezer ensures that the layers are well-set and easy to handle and enjoy.

Storing Your Vegan Twix Delights

Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness and deliciousness of your Vegan Twix Cookies. Because of their layered structure and the caramel, they benefit from being kept cool:

• Freezer Storage (Recommended): These cookies are best stored in an airtight container in the freezer. This prevents the chocolate from melting and keeps the caramel from becoming too soft. They will last beautifully for up to 1-2 months.
• Refrigeration: If you plan to eat them within a few days, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chocolate and caramel will be firmer than when frozen, but still delightful. They will last for about 1 week.
• Thawing Before Enjoying: Whether from the freezer or fridge, I recommend letting them thaw for a few minutes at room temperature before enjoying. This allows the shortbread to soften slightly and the caramel to become perfectly chewy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different flour for the shortbread base?

A: While almond flour is highly recommended for its unique texture, you can try ground sunflower seed flour for a nut-free option. Other nut flours might also work but could alter the texture slightly. Avoid coconut flour or wheat flour without significant recipe adjustments.

Q: What if I don’t have cashew butter?

A: No problem! You can substitute cashew butter with any other creamy nut butter like almond butter or peanut butter, or a seed butter like sunflower seed butter. Just ensure it’s a smooth, runny variety for the best caramel consistency.

Q: Are these cookies truly healthy?

A: These cookies are made with wholesome, unrefined ingredients and are free from gluten and refined sugar, making them a healthier alternative to traditional candy bars. They are still an indulgent treat, so enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Q: Can I make these cookies entirely nut-free?

A: Yes! To make them nut-free, use ground sunflower seed flour for the cookie base and sunflower seed butter (sunbutter) for the caramel layer. Always double-check your chocolate chips to ensure they are also nut-free and processed in a nut-free facility if allergies are severe.

Q: How can I make the chocolate topping extra glossy?

A: To achieve a super glossy finish, you can temper your chocolate, but for a simpler method, ensure your chocolate is melted smoothly without overheating. Adding a tiny bit of coconut oil (1/2 tsp per cup of chocolate chips) can also help with gloss and fluidity.

Q: Can I add toppings or variations?

A: Absolutely! Get creative! You could sprinkle a little sea salt on top of the chocolate for a salted caramel effect, add chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or even a swirl of white chocolate (vegan, of course!) before the chocolate sets.

The Full Vegan Twix Cookies Recipe Card

Vegan Twix Cookies

These adorable and fun-to-make cookies are a fantastic vegan, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free twist on the beloved Twix candy bar! They feature a delightful shortbread-like base, topped with a creamy caramel layer, and finished with a rich chocolate coating, all made with wholesome ingredients. They are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

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5 from 1 vote

Print Recipe
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Prep Time

10 minutes
mins

Cook Time

12 minutes
mins

Course
Dessert, Snack

Cuisine
American

Servings

8
Cookies

Calories

1
kcal

Ingredients

Cookies

• 1 cup almond flour
• 3 tbsp maple syrup
• 2 tbsp coconut oil (melted)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• pinch of sea salt

Topping

• 1/2 cup cashew butter*
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tbsp coconut oil, melted (if needed for caramel consistency)
• 1 cup vegan chocolate chips

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a bowl, mix together the almond flour, 3 tbsp maple syrup, 2 tbsp melted coconut oil, vanilla, and a pinch of sea salt to form the cookie dough. Roll the dough into 8-10 uniform balls and place them on the lined baking sheet. Slightly flatten each ball with your palm, then use your thumb to create a small indentation in the center of each cookie.
• Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet. For a faster cool, you can pop them in the freezer for a few minutes.
• In the meantime, prepare the caramel. Combine the cashew butter and 1/4 cup maple syrup in a small bowl, mixing until creamy and smooth. If your nut butter is quite thick, gradually add 1-2 tbsp of melted coconut oil until the caramel reaches a spreadable consistency.
• In a separate small, microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in short intervals, stirring until smooth. Alternatively, use a double boiler.
• Once the cookies are cool, spoon a little of the caramel mixture into the indentation on top of each cookie. Then, drizzle or spread some of the melted chocolate over the caramel layer.
• Place the cookies in the freezer for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the chocolate and caramel to firm up. Let the cookies thaw for a few minutes at room temperature before enjoying their delicious layers!

Keyword
Almond Flour, caramel, Chocolate, cookies, easy recipe, maple syrup, Peanut Butter, twix, vegan, gluten-free, refined sugar-free

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Healthier Indulgence Awaits!

These Vegan Twix Cookies are more than just a recipe; they’re a testament to how creative and delicious plant-based, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free baking can be. They capture all the magic of that classic candy bar in a homemade treat that you can feel good about enjoying. With their tender shortbread, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate, each bite offers a symphony of textures and flavors that will satisfy your sweet tooth without any guilt.

Whether you’re looking for a healthier dessert option, catering to dietary restrictions, or simply wanting to try a fun and easy baking project, these cookies are a perfect choice. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and get ready to experience a truly irresistible homemade indulgence. Don’t forget to share your creations and tag us on social media!