Twix Bar Chocolate Caramel Cheesecake

Indulge in the Ultimate Dessert Experience: Chocolate Caramel Twix Cheesecake

Prepare to be captivated by a dessert that flawlessly combines three of the most beloved sweet treats: classic creamy cheesecake, rich decadent chocolate, and luscious buttery caramel. Our **Chocolate Caramel Twix Cheesecake** is more than just a dessert; it’s a culinary masterpiece, drawing inspiration from the iconic Twix candy bar to deliver an unparalleled symphony of flavors and textures. This isn’t just any homemade cheesecake recipe; it’s an extraordinary creation guaranteed to elevate any occasion and leave a lasting impression.

As a passionate enthusiast of all things cheesecake, I can confidently say this candy bar-inspired dessert transcends expectations. Each slice boasts a profoundly thick, velvety cheesecake layer, crowned with a generous, glossy ganache topping, and elegantly finished with a luscious drizzle of homemade caramel sauce. Every bite is an experience of pure bliss – a delightful interplay of crunchy crust, smooth cheesecake, rich chocolate, and chewy caramel that truly mimics the sensation of enjoying a Twix bar, but in a sophisticated, dessert form.

Twix Cheesecake slice on a white dessert plate, showcasing layers of crust, cheesecake, ganache, and caramel drizzle.

Why This Chocolate Caramel Twix Cheesecake Is a Must-Make

Beyond its irresistible flavor, this Twix-inspired cheesecake offers numerous reasons why it should be your next baking project. It’s not just a dessert; it’s an event, a conversation starter, and a truly memorable treat for any gathering or special moment.

The Ultimate Showstopper Dessert: When hosting, a dessert that truly wows your guests is essential. This Chocolate Caramel Twix Cheesecake fits the bill perfectly. Its impressive appearance, with distinct layers of crust, cheesecake, ganache, and flowing caramel, makes it an undeniable centerpiece. Whether for a dinner party, holiday gathering, or a special celebration, prepare for rave reviews and requests for the recipe.
Unforgettably Ultra-Creamy Texture: One of the secrets to an exceptional cheesecake is its texture. Allowing this cheesecake to come slightly to room temperature before serving—by taking it out of the fridge an hour or so before dinner—enhances its inherent creaminess, making it melt-in-your-mouth tender. This attention to detail transforms a delicious dessert into an absolutely extraordinary experience.
Perfect for Parties and Potlucks: Due to its richness and decadent profile, a small slice of this Twix Cheesecake is often all that’s needed to satisfy even the most fervent sweet tooth. This makes it an incredibly economical and practical dessert for larger gatherings, as one cheesecake can generously serve many guests without them feeling deprived. It’s the ideal party dessert that everyone will adore.
Advanced Preparation Friendly: Planning a party can be stressful. This cheesecake is a dream for hosts as it tastes best when made a day or two in advance. Not only does this free up valuable time on the day of your event, but the flavors also meld and deepen with time, resulting in an even more delicious and cohesive dessert.
A Homage to a Beloved Candy Bar: For anyone who loves the crunchy, chewy, chocolatey, and caramel notes of a Twix bar, this cheesecake is a sophisticated tribute. It captures the essence of that nostalgic flavor profile and elevates it into a truly gourmet dessert experience.

This recipe was originally inspired by the ingenious creations found on Hugs & Cookies XOXO, which, in turn, built upon the foundation of the famous Junior’s cheesecake recipe. We’ve taken those foundational elements and refined them to create our own signature version. While some recipes might feature a simple 3-minute caramel sauce, we often turn to our quick and delightful microwave caramel sauce, designed for ease and delicious results. Both methods yield fabulous caramel, essential for replicating that signature Twix flavor. A thick, luxurious layer of ganache provides the necessary chocolate component, completing this divine confection. The combination is simply irresistible, a fact confirmed by every guest who has had the pleasure of tasting it!

Essential Ingredients for Your Twix Cheesecake

Crafting a truly exceptional cheesecake begins with understanding and selecting the right ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and why each component is important for achieving that perfect Chocolate Caramel Twix Cheesecake:

Kitchen Staples: You’ll need granulated sugar for sweetness throughout the crust and cheesecake, and butter (salted is perfectly acceptable here) to bind the crust and enrich other elements.
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These form the classic, slightly sweet and crunchy base for our cheesecake. While store-bought crumbs are convenient, you can easily make your own by pulsing whole graham crackers in a food processor until finely ground.
Cream Cheese: The heart of any cheesecake! For an incredibly smooth, lump-free batter, it is absolutely crucial to bring your cream cheese out of the refrigerator at least 2 hours before you plan to begin mixing. Room temperature cream cheese blends seamlessly, creating a silky texture.
Eggs: Large eggs are the standard for most baking recipes. Like the cream cheese, having them at room temperature is key. This allows them to incorporate more easily and evenly into the batter, contributing to a consistently creamy texture and preventing overmixing.
Cornstarch: A secret weapon in cheesecake baking! Cornstarch acts as a stabilizer, helping the cheesecake set beautifully during baking and maintaining its structure and stability once baked, preventing cracks and ensuring a perfect slice.
Vanilla Extract: Always opt for pure vanilla extract. Its rich, aromatic notes enhance the overall flavor profile of the cheesecake. Avoid artificially flavored vanilla, as it can impart a synthetic taste.
Heavy Whipping Cream: Look for cream with at least 36% butterfat. This high-fat content is essential for creating the luscious, rich ganache and contributing to the cheesecake’s luxurious mouthfeel.
Semisweet Chocolate: The quality of your chocolate directly impacts the ganache’s flavor. Use good quality semisweet chocolate bars, such as Ghirardelli, and chop them finely before melting. While chocolate chips can be used in a pinch, they contain additives to help them hold their shape, which can sometimes result in a slightly less smooth ganache.
Caramel Sauce: This is a star component, delivering that signature Twix caramel flavor. You have several excellent options:
- Use a high-quality jarred caramel sauce for convenience.
- For a homemade touch, melt together 40 unwrapped Kraft caramels with a can of sweetened condensed milk and 5 tablespoons of butter until smooth.
- Alternatively, try our convenient microwave caramel sauce recipe (linked in the main content) for a quick and delicious option.
Fun-sized Twix Bars: These are optional but highly recommended for garnish! They add a playful nod to the inspiration and a delightful textural element to the finished cheesecake.

Whole Twix Cheesecake on a serving plate, showing the chocolate ganache and potential Twix bar garnish.

Mastering Your Chocolate Caramel Twix Cheesecake: Expert Baking Tips

Creating this impressive Twix cheesecake, with its dreamy cheesecake base, thick layer of silky ganache, and generous caramel drizzle, is a true joy. To ensure your dessert turns out perfectly, yielding raves from everyone who takes a bite, here are some invaluable expert tips and tricks:

Embrace the Make-Ahead Advantage: Don’t feel pressured to complete this entire dessert in a single day. Cheesecakes notoriously taste even better after being refrigerated overnight, allowing the flavors to fully meld and the texture to set perfectly. You can even prepare the cheesecake a couple of days in advance of serving.
Freezing for Future Enjoyment: This cheesecake freezes wonderfully, making it an excellent option for meal prepping or preparing for events far in advance. The baked crust and cheesecake layer can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, ensure it’s completely cooled, then wrap it securely in several layers of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. I often keep it in the springform pan (with the sides on) for freezing to protect its shape, then remove it once thawed or ready to top.
Caramel Layer vs. Caramel Drizzle: A Personal Preference: While some recipes suggest adding a layer of caramel between the cheesecake and the ganache, I personally prefer to use the caramel as a topping, drizzling it generously over each slice just before serving. This prevents the caramel from oozing excessively when the cheesecake is cut and allows for a beautiful presentation. Both methods are delicious, so feel free to experiment with your preference.
Crucial Cheesecake PRO-Tips for Success: Cheesecakes are surprisingly easy once you master a few fundamental rules:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Always ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature. Cold ingredients don’t emulsify properly, leading to a lumpy batter and a less uniform texture. Plan to take them out of the fridge at least 2 hours before you start.
- Paddle Attachment is Key: When mixing your cheesecake batter, always use the paddle attachment of your stand mixer, not the whisk attachment. The paddle incorporates ingredients gently, minimizing air bubbles, which are a common culprit for cheesecake cracks.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until the ingredients are combined and smooth. Overmixing incorporates too much air, which can cause the cheesecake to puff up excessively during baking and then collapse and crack as it cools.
- The Water Bath (Bain-Marie) Method: This technique is crucial for a perfectly creamy, crack-free cheesecake. Place your springform pan (wrapped in foil to prevent water seepage) into a larger roasting pan. Fill the larger pan with hot water, ensuring it comes about halfway up the sides of the springform pan. The steam from the water bath creates a moist, even baking environment, preventing the edges from baking too quickly and cracking the center.
- Gradual Cooling: After baking, leave the cheesecake in the turned-off oven with the door slightly ajar for about an hour. This gradual cooling prevents thermal shock, which can lead to cracks. Then, remove it from the water bath and cool completely on a wire rack before chilling.
Caramel Sauce Customization: While our microwave caramel sauce is quick and delicious for garnishing, feel free to use your own favorite homemade caramel recipe or a high-quality jarred brand. Danielle’s method of melting packaged caramels with sweetened condensed milk is also a fantastic shortcut.
Visually Appealing Garnish: For a simple yet stunning presentation that hints at the delightful flavors within, arrange a ring of fun-sized Twix bars around the perimeter of the finished cheesecake. This not only looks fantastic but also gives your guests a clear clue about the delicious candy bar inspiration.

Close-up of a Twix Cheesecake slice generously drizzled with caramel sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions About Twix Cheesecake

Here are answers to some common questions that arise when making this delicious Chocolate Caramel Twix Cheesecake, ensuring you achieve perfect results every time.

What’s the Best Way to Ensure a Creamy Cheesecake?

Achieving that signature silky, creamy cheesecake texture relies on a few key steps: First and foremost, ensure both your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This allows them to blend smoothly without lumps. Second, use the paddle attachment on your stand mixer set to a low speed, avoiding overmixing which can incorporate too much air. Finally, baking your cheesecake in a bain-marie (water bath) is paramount. The gentle, moist heat prevents the cheesecake from overbaking around the edges and keeps the center incredibly smooth and custardy.

Why Did My Cheesecake Crack?

Cheesecake cracks are a common frustration, but they are preventable! The primary culprits are usually overbaking and too much air in the batter. To avoid overbaking, remove the cheesecake from the oven when the very center still has a slight jiggle – it will continue to cook and set from the residual heat. Secondly, ensure you don’t overmix your batter; use the paddle attachment on low speed to incorporate ingredients gently, minimizing the introduction of excess air. Lastly, baking the cheesecake in a water bath significantly helps. The water bath stabilizes the oven temperature and provides moisture, ensuring even baking and greatly reducing the chances of cracking.

Can I Make This Cheesecake Gluten-Free?

Absolutely! To make this Chocolate Caramel Twix Cheesecake gluten-free, simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs in the crust with gluten-free graham crackers or a blend of gluten-free shortbread cookies. Ensure all other ingredients, particularly any store-bought caramel sauce, are certified gluten-free.

How Long Does This Cheesecake Last and How Should I Store It?

When stored properly, this cheesecake will last for 3-5 days in the refrigerator. To keep it fresh, cover it loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or store it in an airtight container. If freezing, wrap the baked (and cooled) cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and it will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Explore More Decadent Dessert Recipes

If you loved this Chocolate Caramel Twix Cheesecake, you’re sure to enjoy these other delightful creations. Dive into more chocolate, caramel, and cheesecake goodness with these fantastic recipes:

Twix Bar Brownies from Recipe Girl
Double Chocolate Twix Cookies
Chocolate Caramel Shortbread Cookies (AKA Twix Cookies)
Homemade Twix Bars
Twix Cheesecake Bars
Chocolate Caramel Tart
More Irresistible Dessert Recipes
A Collection of Sensational Cheesecake Recipes

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The Recipe:

Chocolate Caramel Twix Cheesecake Recipe

Prep Time
45 minutes

Cook Time
1 hour 15 minutes

Total Time
2 hours

Yield
16 servings

A decadent combination of rich cheesecake, velvety chocolate, and luscious caramel, inspired by your favorite candy bar!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake:

32 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1 ⅔ cups granulated sugar
¼ cup cornstarch
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
2 large eggs, at room temperature
¾ cup heavy whipping cream

For the Caramel Sauce*:

40 Kraft caramels, unwrapped
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
5 Tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Chocolate Ganache:

1 ½ cups heavy cream* (See note below for thickness adjustment)
12 – 16 ounces semisweet chocolate, finely chopped (I recommend three 4-ounce Ghirardelli semisweet chocolate bars)

Optional Garnish:

Fun-sized Twix bars, chopped or whole

Instructions

Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake at 350ºF (175ºC) for 8 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool completely while you prepare the cheesecake filling. Keep the oven on.
Begin the Cheesecake Batter: Using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat 1 package of the room temperature cream cheese, ⅓ cup of the sugar, and the cornstarch on low speed until perfectly creamy, about 3 minutes. Stop to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
Add Remaining Cream Cheese: Gradually add the remaining cream cheese, one package at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated and smooth. Remember to scrape down the bowl frequently.
Incorporate Remaining Ingredients: Increase the mixer speed to medium and beat in the remaining sugar, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix in the eggs, one at a time, beating just until each egg is blended into the batter. Finally, beat in the heavy cream until the mixture is just combined and smooth.
Achieve Perfect Texture: The cheesecake filling should appear light, creamy, airy, and almost like fluffy clouds. Be very careful not to over-mix at this stage, as too much air can cause cracking during baking.
Prepare for Baking: Gently scrape the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Wrap the sides of the springform pan securely with a double layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent any water from seeping in during the water bath.
Bake in a Water Bath: Place the foil-wrapped springform pan into a larger shallow roasting pan. Carefully pour hot water into the larger pan until it comes about halfway (approximately 1 inch) up the sides of the springform pan. Bake for approximately 1¼ hours, or until the top is a very light golden brown and the very center still has a slight, subtle jiggle when gently nudged.
Cool and Chill: Carefully remove the cheesecake from the water bath and transfer it to a wire rack. Let it cool at room temperature for 2 hours. Once completely cooled, chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 6-8 hours, or preferably overnight, until it is thoroughly cold and set.
Make the Caramel Sauce: If making homemade caramel, combine the unwrapped Kraft caramels, sweetened condensed milk, and 5 tablespoons of butter in a heatproof bowl. Microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring thoroughly after each minute, until the mixture is completely smooth and blended. Let cool slightly. You will only need about half of this caramel for the cheesecake itself; the rest can be used for serving or other desserts.
Prepare the Ganache: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream just until it begins to boil. Immediately pour the hot cream over the finely chopped semisweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit undisturbed for 2 minutes to allow the chocolate to melt. Then, stir gently until the chocolate is completely melted and the ganache is smooth and glossy.
Assemble the Cheesecake: (Optional step, see notes below for alternative preference) If desired, pour about half of the prepared caramel sauce into the slight indentation that forms in the center of the chilled cheesecake. Chill for about 30 minutes to firm up the caramel layer slightly. Then, pour the cooled chocolate ganache evenly over the top of the cheesecake.
Final Chill & Garnish: Chill the cheesecake again for several hours or overnight until the ganache is firm. Before serving, carefully remove the sides of the springform pan. If desired, garnish with fun-sized Twix bars around the perimeter or chopped over the top. Cut into slices using a sharp, warm knife.
Serve with Caramel: Serve each slice with an additional generous drizzle of the remaining caramel sauce. Enjoy your decadent Chocolate Caramel Twix Cheesecake!

Notes

Caramel Sauce Alternative: My microwave caramel sauce recipe offers a quicker, slightly thinner alternative to the caramel recipe provided above. Both are excellent, depending on your preferred consistency and time constraints.

Caramel Layer vs. Drizzle: You have the option to add a caramel layer before the ganache. If you opt for a caramel layer, be aware that it might ooze out slightly when you slice the cheesecake. Personally, I prefer to leave the caramel as a topping, drizzling it over each slice as I serve, but both methods yield a delicious dessert. Choose what best suits your presentation and taste!

Ganache Thickness Note: I’ve successfully used this ganache recipe with 12 ounces of chocolate on other cheesecakes, and my videographer also found it to set beautifully. However, some comments have indicated their ganache wasn’t thick enough. To ensure a properly firm and set ganache, especially if you prefer a thicker topping, you may wish to add an additional 4 ounces of chopped semisweet chocolate (using four 4-ounce Ghirardelli bars instead of three). Adjust according to your desired consistency.

Springform Pan Depth: Ensure your 9-inch springform pan has an interior depth of at least 2½-inches to comfortably hold all of the cheesecake batter. If your pan is shallower or if you use a whisk attachment (which incorporates more air) instead of a paddle attachment, you may find you have excess batter.

Serving Size: This Chocolate Caramel Twix Cheesecake is incredibly rich and indulgent. While the recipe yields 16 servings, it can easily feed more, especially if served after a hearty meal, as only a small sliver is needed to satisfy. Consider cutting smaller slices for a crowd.

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