Name: Twix Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 53 min
Total time: 6 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Cooking spray; 1-1/4 cups crushed Lorna Doone Shortbread Cookies (or crushed graham crackers); 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 1/3 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed; 1/8 teaspoon salt; 16 ounces cream cheese (2 bricks), at room temperature; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1-1/2 tablespoons flour; 1/4 cup sour cream, at room temperature; 1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste (or 1 tablespoon vanilla extract); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3 large eggs, at room temperature; 1 cup Twix minis; 1/2 cup milk chocolate chips (or dark or semi-sweet chocolate); 1/4 cup heavy cream; 14.5 ounces soft caramels, unwrapped; 2-1/2 tablespoons evaporated milk

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 74 reviews

If you’re craving a dessert that combines creamy cheesecake with the delightful crunch and caramel-chocolate goodness of your favorite candy bar, then you absolutely have to try this Twix Cheesecake Bars Recipe. This dessert is sheer indulgence wrapped up in a bar, featuring a buttery shortbread crust, a luscious cheesecake filling studded with Twix minis, and topped off with rich caramel and chocolate sauces. It’s the perfect treat to impress guests, celebrate a special occasion, or simply satisfy that sweet tooth with layers of texture and flavor you’ll find utterly irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A set of six images shows the step-by-step mixing of ingredients in a white bowl placed on a white marbled surface. The first image shows dry ingredients: white flour and dark brown chocolate chips in two distinct halves in the bowl, with a light wooden spoon resting on top. The second image shows the dry ingredients and chips mixed together, creating a mostly white mixture with small dark spots. The third image presents wet ingredients, including light brown brown sugar, a raw egg with a yellow yolk, white sour cream, and dark vanilla extract, all placed separately in the bowl with the spoon. The fourth image shows these wet ingredients combined into a smooth, light brown batter covering the bottom of the white bowl. The fifth image shows the wet batter poured over the dry mixture in the bowl, with the spoon partially submerged in the mixture. The last image shows the combination being gently stirred, with visible streaks of both dry white flour and wet light brown batter swirling together inside the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Twix Cheesecake Bars Recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create a decadent dessert. Each one plays a crucial role: from the buttery crust that provides a crisp base to the creamy, dreamy cheesecake filling and gooey caramel and chocolate toppings that bring everything together.

Cooking spray: Helps the parchment paper release the cheesecake bars easily after baking.
1-1/4 cups crushed Lorna Doone Shortbread Cookies (or graham crackers): Provides a crunchy, buttery crust base that pairs perfectly with the creamy filling.
5 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Binds the crust ingredients together and adds richness.
1/3 cup light brown sugar (firmly packed): Adds a touch of sweetness and moisture to the crust.
1/8 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
16 ounces cream cheese (2 bricks, room temperature): The star of the cheesecake batter for that smooth, velvety texture.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake without overpowering it.
1-1/2 tablespoons flour: Helps stabilize the cheesecake structure so it cuts cleanly.
1/4 cup sour cream (room temperature): Adds tang and firmness for that perfect cheesecake bite.
1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste (or 1 tablespoon vanilla extract): Infuses the batter with warm, aromatic notes.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the complexity of flavors in the filling.
3 large eggs (room temperature): Gives the batter structure and richness.
1 cup Twix minis: The defining ingredient—bitty bites of caramel, cookie, and chocolate throughout the cheesecake.
1/2 cup milk chocolate chips (or dark/semi-sweet): Used for the luscious chocolate ganache topping.
1/4 cup heavy cream: Creates a silky chocolate sauce to drizzle over the bars.
14.5 ounces soft caramels (unwrapped): For the addictively sweet and gooey caramel sauce.
2-1/2 tablespoons evaporated milk: Thins the caramel for perfect pouring consistency.

How to Make Twix Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving plenty of overhang so you can lift the finished bars out easily. Don’t forget to lightly spray the parchment with cooking spray to ensure nothing sticks. This prep step sets you up for an effortless bake and clean removal of your beautiful cheesecake bars.

Step 2: Make and Bake the Crust

In a medium bowl, combine the crushed shortbread cookies, melted butter, brown sugar, and salt. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and just barely up the sides of your prepared pan—you want an even, sturdy base. Bake the crust for 10 minutes until it’s set and golden. Then, reduce the oven temperature to 325 degrees so you’re ready to bake the cheesecake layer next.

Step 3: Whip Up the Cheesecake Batter

Using a stand or hand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and flour on medium speed until smooth and lump-free. Add the sour cream, vanilla bean paste, and salt, lowering the mixer speed to combine everything gently without overmixing. Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing just enough to combine each addition. Finally, fold in the Twix minis carefully to distribute their delicious crunch and caramel bits evenly throughout your batter.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the creamy cheesecake batter over your cooled crust and smooth it out evenly with a spatula. Press any Twix pieces that poked above the surface gently back down so everything stays neat. Bake the bars for 38 to 43 minutes until the edges are set, but the center still has a slight jiggle—this guarantees a silky, luscious texture. Allow the cheesecake to cool at room temperature for an hour before covering and chilling it in the refrigerator for 4 to 6 hours or overnight — chilling is key to achieving those perfect bars that slice like a dream.

Step 5: Prepare Caramel and Chocolate Sauces

While the cheesecake chills, let’s get those heavenly sauces ready. For the chocolate ganache, heat the heavy cream until it just simmers and pour it over the chocolate chips, covering the bowl for 5 minutes to melt the chocolate perfectly. Stir until smooth and let it cool slightly to thicken. For the caramel sauce, gently melt the unwrapped caramels with evaporated milk over medium heat, stirring constantly until smooth. Let it rest so the flavors meld while you prepare to serve.

Step 6: Slice and Assemble

Grab the parchment overhang to lift the chilled cheesecake slab from the pan. Using a knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry between cuts will help you achieve clean, even bars every time. Drizzle your luscious caramel and thick chocolate ganache over the top of each bar just before serving for a show-stopping presentation that tastes as amazing as it looks.

How to Serve Twix Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Two chocolate chip muffins are stacked one on top of the other in the center of the image, showing a golden brown crust with small dark chocolate chips spread throughout. Around them, there are more muffins on a white marbled surface, with their textured tops slightly crumbly. Scattered chocolate chips dot the surface near the muffins, adding contrast. To the left, there is a clear glass bottle filled with white milk. The background is softly blurred, keeping the focus on the muffins in the front. The whole scene is lit with soft natural light, showing warm and inviting colors. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of crushed Twix minis or a light dusting of cocoa powder instantly ups the visual appeal and adds an extra punch of crunch or chocolate flavor. For an elegant finish, consider a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a few shaved chocolate curls. These little touches make every bite even more irresistible and highlight the Twix Cheesecake Bars Recipe’s rich, playful nature.

Side Dishes

Though these bars are quite the showstopper on their own, pairing them with a fresh berry salad can add a lovely contrast of natural tartness and freshness. A simple cup of black coffee or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream complements the sweetness perfectly, making the whole dessert experience even more memorable. These combos bring balance and help cleanse the palate between bites.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual bars on elegant dessert plates garnished with a zigzag of warm caramel and chocolate sauce for a bakery-style touch. For parties, arrange the bars on a tiered dessert stand with colorful sprigs of mint or edible flowers tucked around. Even wrapped in little parchment squares with a twine bow, these bars make charming gifts or take-home treats.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cut, keep your Twix Cheesecake Bars refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days. This helps maintain their creamy texture and the integrity of the caramel and chocolate toppings. Leftover bars taste fantastic cold straight from the fridge, preserving that rich, indulgent experience anytime you want a sweet pick-me-up.

Freezing

You can freeze the bars to enjoy later by wrapping individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then storing them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for a creamy, fresh-out-of-the-oven feel that’s just as delicious as the day you made them.

Reheating

Generally, Twix Cheesecake Bars are best enjoyed cold; however, if you want to soften the chocolate topping slightly, allow the bars to sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as that can change the texture of the cheesecake and cause the toppings to separate.

FAQs

Can I use a different cookie for the crust?

Absolutely! While crushed shortbread cookies add a lovely buttery flavor, graham crackers or digestive biscuits work beautifully as well. Just make sure to crush them finely so the crust binds evenly with the melted butter.

Is it necessary to use room temperature ingredients?

Yes, using room temperature cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream helps the batter blend smoothly without lumps and prevents overmixing, which can cause cracks or a dense texture in the cheesecake.

Can I substitute regular Twix bars for the minis?

Yes, you can chop regular Twix bars into small bite-sized pieces if you don’t have minis on hand. Just be careful not to add too many or too large chunks, so the bars maintain their structure and bake evenly.

How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?

The edges should look set and the top should lose its shine, but the center can still jiggle slightly when you gently shake the pan. This ensures the cheesecake stays creamy and doesn’t overbake or crack.

Can I make this recipe without the caramel and chocolate sauces?

You can skip the sauces, but they add a wonderfully rich finishing touch that takes the Twix Cheesecake Bars Recipe to the next level. If you want a simpler approach, just sprinkle a few extra Twix bits on top before chilling.

Final Thoughts

This Twix Cheesecake Bars Recipe is pure dessert magic, combining classic cheesecake with the irresistible charm of Twix candy in a way that’s delightfully easy to prepare yet feels utterly indulgent. Whether you’re making it for family, friends, or just treating yourself, these bars never fail to bring smiles and happy sighs. Give this recipe a try and get ready to fall in love with a new favorite dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!