Twix Bark (vegan, grain free)
If you’re a fan of the classic Twix bar but are looking for a healthier, homemade alternative that fits a vegan and gluten-free diet, this “Twix” Bark recipe is perfect for you! It’s not just easy to make but also fun and incredibly delicious. Imagine enjoying your favorite candy bar in a deconstructed bark form that’s both healthier and packed with natural ingredients.
The Joy of Homemade Candy
Making candy at home allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking. This “Twix” Bark brings together the iconic layers of crispy shortbread, creamy caramel, and rich chocolate in a new and exciting way. By recreating these flavors with health-conscious ingredients, you can indulge without any guilt.
Ingredient Highlights:
• Dark Chocolate Chips and Coconut Oil: These two ingredients form the silky, smooth chocolate base and topping of the bark. Dark chocolate is not only delicious but also rich in antioxidants, while coconut oil adds a slight hint of coconut flavor and helps in setting the chocolate perfectly.
• Almond Flour and Tapioca Starch: These gluten-free alternatives to traditional flour make up the shortbread crumble, providing a crunchy texture that mimics the classic biscuit layer of a Twix bar.
• Maple Syrup and Coconut Sugar: Natural sweeteners that give the shortbread crumble and caramel their sweet, rich flavors without using refined sugars.
• Cashew Butter and Coconut Milk: Combine to create a luscious, dairy-free caramel layer that’s smooth and decadently sweet with a hint of salt to enhance the flavor.
Twix Bark
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups dark chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp refined coconut oil
Shortbread Crumble:
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup tapioca starch
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 2 tbsp coconut sugar
Caramel:
- 1/4 cup cashew butter
- 1/4 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Prepare the Crumble:
- Preheat your oven to 365°F (185°C). Mix almond flour, tapioca starch, coconut oil, maple syrup, and coconut sugar in a bowl. Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet and toast for 8 minutes. Cool and break up any large pieces.
Make the Caramel:
- In a saucepan over low heat, combine cashew butter, coconut milk, maple syrup, and salt. Stir until the mixture becomes thick and caramel-like.
Prepare the Chocolate Base:
- Microwave the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil in a bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth and fully melted.
Assemble the Bark:
- Pour the melted chocolate onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spreading it into a thin, even layer. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the chocolate and use a knife to gently swirl the caramel into the chocolate.
Add the Crumble:
- Sprinkle the toasted shortbread crumble evenly over the top of the caramel-swirled chocolate layer.
Set the Bark:
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer and allow the bark to set for at least 30 minutes, or until completely firm.
Break and Serve:
- Once set, break the bark into irregular pieces. Enjoy as a delightful treat with the layered textures and flavors of Twix, but with a homemade, healthier twist.