Healthy Twix Bars Recipe That Actually Taste Amazing

If you’ve ever craved a Twix bar but hesitated because of all the processed sugar, dairy, or gluten — I’ve been there too. That’s exactly why I fell head over heels for Healthy Twix Bars. These indulgent bars are layered with a tender shortbread crust, luscious date caramel, and a smooth chocolate shell, all without the guilt. Whether you’re after a no-bake treat, need something gluten-free, or just want a delicious sweet made with real ingredients, this recipe has you covered.

In this article, I’ll share how I recreated one of my favorite childhood candies into a wholesome dessert that actually tastes even better than the original.

Recreating Childhood Favorites with a Healthy Twist

Hi, I’m Abby — and honestly, I’ve always had a sweet tooth. As a kid, Twix bars were my favorite. I remember trading lunchbox snacks just to get one. Fast forward to today, and my love for layered chocolate-caramel treats hasn’t gone anywhere — but my pantry looks a whole lot different. After years of food styling and baking, I started creating better-for-you versions of nostalgic sweets. That’s how these Healthy Twix Bars were born.

This recipe started as a weekend experiment: could I make something with the same gooey crunch of a classic Twix, using only whole food ingredients? Spoiler: the first batch didn’t make it past the next morning. I knew I was onto something when my friends couldn’t tell they were dairy-free and naturally sweetened. Since then, I’ve tested this recipe at least a dozen different ways — and I’ll show you how to tweak it to fit your diet or pantry staples.

For more comforting but healthy dessert ideas, check out my gluten-free chocolate chip cookie bars or these crowd-favorite no-bake brownie bites — both of which follow that same simple, better-for-you approach.

Why This Healthy Twix Bars Recipe Is a Keeper

So, what makes Healthy Twix Bars truly stand out? First, the shortbread base is buttery without butter — thanks to a combo of almond flour and coconut oil. Then there’s the “caramel,” which isn’t caramel in the traditional sense but uses soft medjool dates blended with a touch of maple syrup and nut butter. The result is every bit as decadent, but naturally sweet.

And let’s not forget that glossy chocolate shell. Melted dark chocolate with a spoonful of coconut oil creates a snappy top layer that cracks just enough when you bite into it — the way any good Twix bar should.

Plus, this version is:

• Refined sugar-free
• Gluten-free
• Dairy-free
• Optionally no-bake
• And made with ingredients you likely already have

If you love layered desserts like these, you might also enjoy my healthy millionaire’s shortbread or this easy chocolate peanut butter crunch bark for quick chocolate cravings.

The Perfect Shortbread Base (With Oat or Almond Flour)

The base layer is where it all begins. It’s the “crunch” in a Twix bar and sets the stage for the gooey caramel and rich chocolate that follow. For a healthy version, we skip the butter and white flour — instead, I use a blend of almond flour and coconut flour, or sometimes oat flour when I want a softer bite.

Here’s what you’ll need:

PIN IT

• ½ cup almond flour
• ½ cup coconut flour (or sub with oat flour for a nut-free version)
• ⅓ cup melted coconut oil
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup or honey

Mix everything in a bowl until it forms a dough-like texture. Press it into a parchment-lined pan — a 6×6 inch dish is perfect for thicker bars, but an 8×8 works if you prefer them thinner. Bake it at 350°F for 10–12 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let it cool completely before adding the caramel layer.

If you want a no-bake option, you can firm this base in the freezer instead of baking — just add 1–2 tablespoons of nut butter to help it bind without heat.

Looking for other uses for almond flour in healthy bakes? Try these almond flour lemon bars — they’re bright, tart, and super simple.

Also Read: Cottage Cheese Bagels Recipe (Easy 3-Ingredient High-Protein Bake)

The Best Healthy Date Caramel Filling

Here’s where the magic happens: healthy Twix bars with date caramel are honestly game-changing. You get all the chew and sweetness of traditional caramel without the dairy, corn syrup, or added sugars.

To make the caramel:

PIN IT

• 1 cup soft medjool dates, pitted
• 2 tablespoons almond butter
• 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt
• Optional: 1–2 tablespoons warm water or almond milk to blend

In a food processor, blend everything until smooth and creamy. The mixture should be thick, spreadable, and rich — just like the inside of a classic Twix bar.

Spread it evenly over the cooled shortbread base. Pop the pan in the freezer for 1–2 hours until it firms up. This step is key before adding the chocolate so your layers stay neat.

If you want to try this caramel in other desserts, I use the same filling in my stuffed chocolate dates and as a dip for apple slices in my fall snack board recipe.

Quick Tips Table

Step	Ingredient Tips
Shortbread	Use almond flour + coconut or oat flour for texture
Date Caramel	Use soft medjool dates & blend until smooth
Freezing	Freeze caramel layer before adding chocolate

Melting Chocolate for Healthy Twix Bars (Without Burnt Bits)

The chocolate topping might seem like the easiest part, but if you’ve ever scorched a bowl of chocolate in the microwave (guilty), you know it deserves a little finesse. For these healthy Twix bars, you want a topping that’s smooth, glossy, and just the right thickness to crack gently as you bite.

PIN IT

Here’s what I use:

• ½ cup dark chocolate chips or chopped chocolate bar
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil (for smoothness and shine)

You can melt this in a double boiler or the microwave — just do it in 30-second bursts, stirring between each to avoid burning. The coconut oil helps thin the chocolate and adds a gorgeous sheen.

Once your date caramel layer is fully chilled and firm (don’t rush this!), pour the melted chocolate on top and spread it evenly. Use a silicone spatula or the back of a spoon to reach every corner. For a little crunch and extra flair, I like to finish with a light sprinkle of flakey sea salt.

If you’ve ever made my dark chocolate tahini bars, you know how much that final glossy chocolate layer adds — and the same magic happens here.

Layering & Freezing: How to Get That Classic Twix Bite

Once your chocolate is spread evenly over the caramel, pop the whole tray into the fridge for about 10 minutes — just enough to harden the chocolate without freezing it solid. If it gets too cold, the chocolate may crack when slicing, so keep an eye on it.

Slicing tips:

• Use a large, sharp knife
• Let bars rest at room temperature for 5 minutes before cutting
• Wipe your knife between slices for clean edges
• Cut into long strips, then slice into individual bars or bites

When done right, you’ll get that satisfying trio of textures in every bite — crumbly base, chewy caramel, and snappy chocolate.

Storing them? I recommend keeping them in the fridge for a firmer texture or the freezer if you like a more candy bar–like bite. These bars store beautifully for up to two weeks in an airtight container.

For another delicious freezer treat, try my healthy chocolate coconut bars — perfect for stashing next to your homemade Twix bars.

How to Store & Serve Healthy Twix Bars Like a Pro

Fridge vs. freezer — what’s best?
For soft but sliceable bars, store them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. If you want a firmer, more candy-bar-like texture (and longer shelf life), freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Always place parchment paper between layers when stacking, especially if freezing, to avoid sticking. Let frozen bars sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Pro serving tips:

• Cut smaller portions for bite-size treats at parties
• Wrap individual bars in parchment paper for meal prep or gifting
• Serve chilled for the perfect “snap” on the chocolate

PIN IT

Hosting a party or brunch? Include these bars on a mini dessert board alongside baked pumpkin donuts and chia pudding jars for a crowd-pleasing (and health-forward) dessert spread.

Frequently Asked Questions About Healthy Twix Bars

Conclusion

There’s something magical about taking a nostalgic treat and giving it a healthy twist — and these Healthy Twix Bars prove that better-for-you baking can still feel indulgent. Whether you’re craving something sweet, want to impress friends at a party, or just need a guilt-free dessert to stash in your freezer, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Made with wholesome ingredients, these bars are everything you love about the original: crumbly, chewy, and chocolatey — just without the dairy, gluten, or refined sugar. Try them once, and you’ll find yourself keeping a secret batch in the fridge at all times (trust me, I do).

Ready to make a batch? Share your version and tag me — I can’t wait to see what you bake up.

For more colorful, health-forward creations and behind-the-scenes peeks into my test kitchen, connect with me on Facebook and see what’s brewing daily on Pinterest. Your next favorite recipe might just be a scroll away.

Print