These Homemade Date Twix Bars are a tasty treat that swaps out heavy sugars for natural sweetness from dates. With a crunchy layer, creamy caramel, and chocolate topping, they’re simply delightful!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a sweet snack that’s both delicious and a little healthier? I often keep a batch in the fridge for when the chocolate cravings hit! 🍫
Making these bars is super simple! Just blend, layer, and chill. They’re perfect for sharing, but let’s be real—I always end up keeping most for myself! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for your shortbread layer. If you’re gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. I often use a mix of almond flour and coconut flour for a nutty touch!
Medjool Dates: These sweet treats are essential for the caramel layer. If you can’t find them, you can use other soft dried fruits like prunes or figs, but they will yield a slightly different flavor.
Coconut Cream: This gives richness to the caramel. If you’re not a fan of coconut, you could use regular heavy cream instead, but the taste will be different. Cashew cream is another good dairy-free option.
Dark Chocolate: I prefer using dark chocolate chips for ease. For a vegan version, choose dairy-free chocolate. If you want a different flavor, try using white chocolate, but it would change the overall taste pretty significantly!
How Do I Get the Shortbread Layer Just Right?
The shortbread is a key component that needs some love! To achieve that perfect crumbly texture:
- Ensure your butter is very cold. This creates a flaky texture when baked.
- Don’t overwork the dough; mix until just combined for a tender shortbread.
- Press firmly into the baking pan for an even layer—it should hold together.
Keep an eye on it while it bakes; a golden edge means it’s just right!
Homemade Date Twix Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shortbread Base:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into cubes
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Date Caramel Layer:
- 1 1/2 cups pitted Medjool dates
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup coconut cream or heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil or unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Chocolate Topping:
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or butter
Optional Garnish:
- Flaked sea salt
- Shredded coconut
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful treat takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 1 hour and 20 minutes, including baking and chilling time. You’ll be enjoying these sweet bars in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Base:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix in the chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a lined 8×8 inch baking pan to form an even layer.
2. Bake the Shortbread Base:
Bake the shortbread in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden around the edges. When done, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan.
3. Prepare the Date Caramel Layer:
In a small saucepan, mix the pitted dates and water. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the dates soften and break down (this should take about 5-7 minutes). Once softened, transfer the mixture to a food processor, add in the coconut cream, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend until it’s silky smooth and has a caramel texture.
4. Layer the Date Caramel:
Spread the date caramel evenly over your cooled shortbread base. Place the pan in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the caramel firm up.
5. Melt the Chocolate Topping:
In a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler, melt the dark chocolate and coconut oil together until smooth. Be sure to stir well to combine!
6. Top with Chocolate and Chill:
Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the caramel layer. If desired, sprinkle some flaked sea salt or shredded coconut on top for added flavor. Return the pan to the fridge and chill until the chocolate is set—about 1 hour.
7. Serve:
Once everything is set, remove the bars from the pan using the edges of the parchment paper. Cut into bars or squares. These can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
Enjoy your indulgent yet wholesome Homemade Date Twix Bars! They’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while keeping it a bit healthier!
Can I Use Different Nuts or Flours for the Base?
Absolutely! You can experiment with nut flours like almond flour for a gluten-free option or use whole wheat flour for a more wholesome base. Just remember that this may change the texture slightly, so you might need to adjust the liquid ingredients!
What If My Dates Are Dry?
If your dates are a bit on the dry side, soak them in warm water for about 10-15 minutes to soften them up before blending. This will help achieve that smooth caramel texture you want!
How Long Do These Bars Last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these delicious bars will stay fresh for about a week. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months—just let them thaw in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I Make These Vegan?
Absolutely! For a vegan version, simply replace the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil, use coconut cream, and ensure your dark chocolate is dairy-free. You’ll still get all the richness without any animal products!
