Healthy Twix Bars Gluten-free

These healthy Twix bars are my go-to homemade treat when I am craving something indulgent but want to keep it wholesome They feature a melt-in-your-mouth almond shortbread a creamy peanut butter caramel and a glossy chocolate shell—all gluten free and made with pantry staples

The first time I made these I was skeptical they could taste like my childhood favorite but my entire family was shocked by how close they came The bars disappeared in record time and I now get asked to bring them to every family gathering

Ingredients

• Almond flour: gives the shortbread its delicate and nutty texture look for the fine blanched type for the best results
• Butter: provides richness and helps the base hold shape use European style for extra flavor
• Maple syrup: sweetens naturally and adds a subtle caramel note choose pure maple syrup
• Vanilla extract: lifts the flavors use real vanilla for depth
• Salt: sharpens and balances the sweetness always opt for fine sea salt
• Creamy peanut butter: forms the gooey caramel layer select one with just peanuts and salt for best taste and texture
• Chocolate chips: create the coating use a high quality dark or semisweet variety for a truer Twix taste
• Coconut oil: helps the melted chocolate set smoothly unrefined gives a slight coconut taste while refined is more neutral

Step-by-Step Instructions

Line the Pan:

Line your eight inch square baking pan with parchment paper making sure it goes up the sides for easy lifting later This step saves you from sticky removal headaches

Mix and Bake the Shortbread:

Combine almond flour melted butter maple syrup vanilla extract and salt in a bowl Stir until a dough forms Press it evenly into the pan pressing it firmly for an even bake Bake at three hundred fifty degrees for about ten to twelve minutes or until edges are golden brown Set aside to cool completely before topping

Make the Caramel Filling:

Mix peanut butter maple syrup vanilla extract and almond flour in a medium bowl until you have a thick creamy filling Once the shortbread is cool spread the peanut butter caramel evenly across the base Smooth as you go Place the pan in the freezer for at least one hour to set the caramel fully

Melt the Chocolate:

Place chocolate chips and coconut oil in a heatproof bowl Melt either over a double boiler or in the microwave in thirty second bursts stirring until smooth and shiny

Slice and Prepare the Bars:

Lift the set block from the pan using the parchment Cut it in half then slice each half into eight even bars You want clean edges for easier dipping

Coat with Chocolate:

Dip each bar one at a time into the melted chocolate making sure each is completely covered Let excess chocolate drip off before placing each bar on a clean parchment lined tray

Finish and Set:

Drizzle any remaining chocolate over the tops if you like Sprinkle with a pinch of flaky sea salt if desired Freeze the tray for ten minutes until the chocolate has set

Enjoy:

Your healthy Twix bars are ready Keep leftovers chilled in an airtight container

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I personally love using peanut butter with a bit of salt because it pairs beautifully with dark chocolate and reminds me of making old fashioned candy bars with my grandma The burst of chocolate crunch followed by creamy caramel always brings family together around the kitchen island

Storage Tips

Keep your bars in an airtight container They stay fresh in the fridge for up to one week or can be frozen for up to two months I like prepping a double batch and freezing half for later For best texture let them sit at room temperature for five minutes before enjoying

Ingredient Substitutions

For a nut free option swap almond flour for sunflower seed flour and use tahini in place of peanut butter If you want dairy free bars coconut oil works instead of butter Just be aware the flavor profile will shift a bit

Serving Suggestions

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These bars are perfect for lunchbox treats or as an after dinner dessert For a party platter cut them into bite size squares For extra flair serve with a scoop of coconut ice cream or a fresh fruit platter

A Little History

The original Twix bar was launched in England in the nineteen sixties with a buttery biscuit and soft caramel layered under chocolate This homemade version channels the layers and flavor but makes it accessible for gluten free and whole food eaters

Commonly Asked Questions

→ How do I ensure the shortbread base is not crumbly?

Press the almond flour mixture firmly and evenly into the pan to help it hold together. Allow it to cool completely before adding the next layer.

→ Can I use a different nut butter for the caramel layer?

Yes, feel free to substitute peanut butter with almond or cashew butter for a different flavor and texture.

→ What's the best way to melt the chocolate coating?

Melt chocolate chips and coconut oil together over a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently until smooth and glossy.

→ How should I store these bars?

Keep the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or in the freezer for longer storage.

→ Can I make these bars vegan?

Use a plant-based butter and vegan chocolate chips to make the bars suitable for a vegan diet.

→ Is there a substitute for almond flour?

Try using oat flour for a nut-free option, though the texture may vary slightly.