Name: Twix Thumbprint Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 egg yolk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 20–24 soft caramels (like Kraft or Werther’s); 2 tablespoons heavy cream; 1/2 cup milk chocolate chips or melting chocolate

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Twix Thumbprint Cookies are a fun and indulgent treat that combines the best parts of a classic cookie with the flavors of a Twix bar. Each buttery shortbread-style cookie has a soft caramel center and is finished with a drizzle of melted chocolate — just like the candy, but homemade. Whenever I want something sweet, simple, and a little nostalgic, these cookies are the perfect choice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy these are to make with just a handful of ingredients, and they turn out looking so cute and bakery-worthy. The cookie base is soft yet holds its shape, the caramel center gives that chewy bite, and the chocolate adds the perfect finishing touch. These are great for sharing, gifting, or just treating myself with a couple alongside a glass of milk. Twix Thumbprint Cookies

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Unsalted butter, softened
Granulated sugar
Egg yolk
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour
Soft caramels (like Kraft or Werther’s)
Heavy cream
Milk chocolate chips or melting chocolate

Directions

I start by creaming the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Then I add the egg yolk and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
I stir in the flour gradually until a soft dough forms.
I roll the dough into small balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Using my thumb or the back of a spoon, I gently press into the center of each to make a small well.
I bake the cookies until lightly golden around the edges, then let them cool completely.
While they cool, I melt the caramels with heavy cream in the microwave or over a double boiler, stirring until smooth.
I spoon the caramel into the center of each cookie and let it set slightly.
Finally, I melt the chocolate and drizzle it over the top of each cookie using a fork or piping bag.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 20–24 cookies, depending on the size. It takes me around 15 minutes to prep, 12–14 minutes to bake, and another 15 minutes for cooling and decorating. In total, I usually have these ready in about 45 minutes.

Variations

When I want a salty-sweet combo, I sprinkle a little sea salt on top of the caramel before the chocolate drizzle. Sometimes I use dark chocolate instead of milk for a richer flavor. For a twist, I add a bit of almond or coconut extract to the dough or use white chocolate for drizzling.

storage/reheating

I keep these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If I want to store them longer, I freeze them in a single layer and then transfer them to a container or freezer bag. I let them thaw at room temperature when I’m ready to enjoy them again — no reheating needed. Twix Thumbprint Cookies

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

I’ve tried it, but it tends to be too runny. I get better results melting soft caramels with a little cream so it sets up nicely in the cookies.

How do I keep the thumbprint shape from puffing up?

I sometimes press the centers again lightly right after baking while the cookies are still warm — that helps keep the well for the caramel.

Can I make these without chocolate?

Absolutely. They still taste great with just caramel. Sometimes I even add chopped nuts instead of chocolate for something different.

Do I need to chill the dough?

For best shape, I chill the dough for 15–30 minutes before baking. It helps the cookies hold their form and not spread too much.

What kind of chocolate works best?

I like using melting wafers or chocolate chips with a little oil for smooth drizzling, but any good-quality chocolate that melts well will work.

Conclusion

These Twix Thumbprint Cookies are everything I love in a homemade treat: sweet, simple, and just a little fancy. The mix of buttery cookie, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate always satisfies my sweet tooth. Whether it’s for the holidays, a bake sale, or just a quiet evening snack, they always hit the spot.