🍪 Twix Shortbread Cookies 🍪
Ingredients:
For the Shortbread Base:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Caramel Layer:
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon salt
For the Chocolate Coating:
1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for shine)
Instructions:
Prepare the Shortbread: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden around the edges. Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan.
Make the Caramel: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Cook, stirring constantly, for 8-10 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and turns a deep caramel color. Be careful not to burn it.
Once ready, pour the caramel over the cooled shortbread layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Allow the caramel to set at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to speed up the process.
Add the Chocolate Layer: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer and spread it evenly.
Let the chocolate harden at room temperature or place the pan in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to set completely.
Cut into Bars: Once the chocolate has hardened, lift the cookie slab out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into small rectangles or squares, mimicking the shape of a Twix bar. Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.