Introduction
Welcome to the ultimate guide to making the indulgent and irresistibly rich Twix Caramel Cake! This dessert is a dream come true for caramel and chocolate lovers. Inspired by the iconic Twix chocolate bar, this cake combines layers of soft sponge, gooey caramel, and a rich chocolate coating that will leave you craving for more. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this Twix Caramel Cake is sure to impress.
The History
The Twix bar was first introduced in the UK in 1967 under the name “Raider.” It wasn’t until the 1990s that it was rebranded as Twix in many parts of the world, including the United States. Known for its golden biscuit base, smooth caramel layer, and milk chocolate coating, Twix has become a global favorite. The Twix Caramel Cake is a modern twist on this classic confection, transforming the candy bar into a show-stopping dessert perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any chocolate and caramel lover’s gathering.
Ingredients Breakdown
To create this Twix-inspired cake, you’ll need ingredients that mimic the signature layers of the candy bar. The base is a classic vanilla or chocolate sponge cake, followed by a thick layer of salted caramel. On top of that, a rich chocolate ganache or frosting is spread to replicate the chocolate coating of the Twix bar. Additional Twix bars are often chopped and used as decoration or mixed into the batter for extra crunch and flavor.
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Prepare the Cake Layers: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Combine wet and dry ingredients, then fold in sugar. Pour batter evenly into pans and bake for 25–30 minutes. Let cool completely.
- Make the Caramel Layer: In a saucepan, combine sugar and water. Cook over medium heat until the sugar turns amber. Add butter and heavy cream, stirring until smooth. Let cool slightly before spreading over one cake layer.
- Frost with Chocolate Ganache: Heat heavy cream until just simmering. Pour over chopped chocolate and stir until smooth. Let cool slightly, then spread over the caramel layer.
- Stack and Chill: Place the second cake layer on top. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set the caramel and ganache.
- Decorate: Drizzle with extra caramel and sprinkle chopped Twix bars around the edges and top for an authentic look.
Tips
- For best results, use room temperature eggs and milk to ensure a smooth batter.
- If the caramel is too thick, warm it slightly to make spreading easier.
- Chill the cake before adding the final decorations to prevent melting.
- Add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel for a salted caramel twist.
Variations and Customizations
- Flavor Variations: Add a splash of coffee extract to the ganache or almond extract to the cake batter for a unique twist.
- Dietary Adjustments: Use gluten-free flour and dairy-free chocolate and cream for a vegan or gluten-free version.
- Layer Options: Make it a trifle or parfait by cutting the cake into cubes and layering with whipped cream and caramel sauce in glasses.
- Themed Twists: Decorate with crushed graham crackers for a Twix s’mores version or add peanut butter to the caramel layer for a Twix peanut butter cake.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
While the Twix Caramel Cake is undeniably decadent, it’s best enjoyed as an occasional treat. A typical slice can contain around 500–700 calories, with high levels of sugar and saturated fats due to the caramel and chocolate ganache. To make it healthier, consider using whole wheat flour, coconut sugar, and low-fat Greek yogurt in place of some of the butter and cream. Chia seeds or flax eggs can replace regular eggs for added fiber and nutrients.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup milk (room temperature)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup sugar (for caramel)
- 3 tbsp water (for caramel)
- ½ cup heavy cream (for caramel)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (for caramel)
- 8 oz dark or semi-sweet chocolate (for ganache)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for ganache)
- 2–3 Twix bars (for garnish)
Directions
- Mix dry ingredients in a bowl: flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures until just incorporated.
- Pour into prepared pans and bake until golden and springy to the touch.
- While cakes cool, make the caramel: cook sugar and water until amber, then add butter and cream.
- Let caramel cool slightly before spreading on one cake layer.
- Prepare ganache by heating cream and pouring over chopped chocolate. Stir until smooth.
- Spread ganache over caramel and stack the second cake layer on top.
- Chill the cake for 1 hour to set the layers.
- Decorate with drizzled caramel and chopped Twix bars before serving.
FAQ
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! This cake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze Twix Caramel Cake?
Yes, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
How long does this cake last?
Stored in the refrigerator, the cake will last up to 4–5 days.
Can I use store-bought caramel?
Absolutely! Just warm it slightly for easier spreading.
Is this cake suitable for vegans?
Yes, with substitutions like flax eggs, plant-based butter, and vegan chocolate and cream.
Summary
This Twix Caramel Cake is a luscious blend of soft sponge, rich caramel, and silky chocolate ganache, topped with chopped Twix bars for a nostalgic finish. Indulge in this show-stopping dessert that brings the beloved candy bar to life in cake form!