There’s something undeniably enchanting about the vibrant green color of matcha and its subtle, earthy flavor. When I first ventured into the world of vegan desserts, I stumbled upon a delightful idea that would combine nostalgic sweetness with that magical matcha essence: Vegan Matcha Twix Bars! Picture this: a buttery shortbread base topped with rich, creamy matcha caramel, all cloaked in smooth vegan white chocolate.
This recipe not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also offers a unique twist on a beloved classic. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a gathering, treat yourself after a long day, or simply break free from the daily fast-food grind, these bars promise to be the standout treat you’ve been searching for. Plus, they boast a simple preparation that invites you to unleash your inner pastry chef right in your kitchen. Ready to dive into a delicious adventure? Let’s make some magic happen!
Why Love Vegan Matcha Twix Bars?
Delightful Layers: The combination of a buttery shortbread base with creamy matcha caramel is truly irresistible.
Easy To Make: With straightforward steps and minimal ingredients, this recipe is perfect for a home chef of any skill level.
Unique Flavor: The subtle earthiness of matcha paired with sweet white chocolate creates a sophisticated yet comforting treat.
Crowd-Pleaser: These bars are bound to impress at any gathering, so they make an excellent dessert option for entertaining.
Customize Your Way: Feel free to play with the toppings or adjust the caramel’s sweetness, making it as personalized as you like.
Ready to wow your friends and family? Check out our other vegan dessert recipes for more delicious inspirations!
Vegan Matcha Twix Bars Ingredients
For the Shortbread Base
- All-purpose flour – Provides the structure to create a tender and buttery texture.
- Vegan butter – Ensures a rich, creamy flavor while keeping it completely plant-based.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the base, balancing the rich flavors of the caramel above it.
For the Matcha Caramel
- Sweetened condensed oat milk – Creates a luscious, creamy consistency in the caramel filling.
- Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps achieve that caramel-like texture.
- Coconut oil – Enhances the richness and provides a smooth mouthfeel.
- Matcha powder – Infuses vibrant color and a unique, earthy flavor that defines these Vegan Matcha Twix Bars.
For the Coating
- Vegan white chocolate – Offers a sweet, creamy layer on top, sealing in all the delicious flavors beneath.
Now you have everything you need to create these delightful Vegan Matcha Twix Bars that are just waiting to impress at your next get-together!
How to Make Vegan Matcha Twix Bars
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Preheat: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). This ensures the perfect baking environment for your shortbread base.
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Cream Together: In a mixing bowl, cream together the vegan butter and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
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Combine Ingredients: Add in the sweetened condensed oat milk and all-purpose flour. Mix everything until a soft dough forms, making sure there are no dry bits.
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Press Dough: Firmly press the dough evenly into silicone chocolate molds or a lined baking pan, making sure to spread it out uniformly.
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Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes until the edges are lightly golden brown. After baking, allow it to cool completely.
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Make Caramel: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the remaining sweetened condensed oat milk, granulated sugar, coconut oil, and matcha powder. Stir continuously until it begins to bubble.
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Simmer: Once it bubbles, reduce the heat to low. Continue stirring for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture reaches a caramel-like consistency.
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Pour Caramel: Carefully pour the matcha caramel over the cooled shortbread base, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Let it set in the refrigerator or freezer for at least 1 hour.
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Melt Chocolate: Melt the vegan white chocolate in a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. This will take around 1-2 minutes.
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Unmold Bars: Once the caramel is set, gently remove each bar from the molds and dip them into the melted white chocolate, ensuring each one is fully coated.
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Set Coating: Place the coated bars on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow them to set in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes or until the chocolate hardens.
Optional: Drizzle extra melted chocolate on top for a decorative touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Vegan Matcha Twix Bars
Room Temperature: Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They make for a delightful daily treat!
Fridge: To extend freshness, store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. This keeps the matcha caramel and white chocolate impeccably smooth.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Vegan Matcha Twix Bars in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Reheating: If you prefer to enjoy them warm, gently microwave the bars for about 10-15 seconds. This will melt the chocolate slightly and bring back that gooey texture!
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Matcha Twix Bars are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy gourmet treats even on your busiest days! You can prepare the shortbread base up to 24 hours in advance; simply bake it, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The matcha caramel can also be made ahead—just prepare it and let it set for at least 1 hour before refrigerating. For the outer coating, you can melt the vegan white chocolate ahead of time, but wait to dip the bars until just before serving to keep them fresh and delicious. Enjoy the satisfaction of a homemade dessert with minimal effort on the day you plan to serve them!
What to Serve with Vegan Matcha Twix Bars?
Create a delightful dining experience to accompany these enchanting treats, as they are sure to be the highlight of any meal!
- Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries add a burst of color and a refreshing contrast to the creamy matcha flavors, enhancing each bite.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: The light, airy texture of coconut whipped cream complements the rich chocolate and matcha caramel while adding a tropical flair.
- Herbal Tea: A fragrant cup of chamomile or mint tea pairs beautifully, offering a calming balance to the sweet richness of the bars.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy, rich vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the chewy texture of the Vegan Matcha Twix Bars, making each mouthful heavenly.
- Chocolate Dipped Fruit: Fresh fruit dipped in dark or white chocolate echoes the dessert while introducing a crunchy texture for a lovely contrast.
- Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of nutty granola brings a satisfying crunch that complements the indulgent softness of the bars and offers a delightful textural experience.
- Sparkling Water: Glistening, flavored sparkling water serves as a refreshing palate cleanser that beautifully balances the sweetness of the dessert.
Expert Tips for Vegan Matcha Twix Bars
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your vegan butter is softened and your ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother dough and better texture.
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Avoid Overmixing: When combining your dough, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher bars instead of the desired tender shortbread.
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Caramel Consistency: Watch the caramel closely as it cooks; if it’s too thick, add a splash of non-dairy milk to loosen it up. Perfect caramel is crucial for your Vegan Matcha Twix Bars!
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Chilling Time: Ensure you give enough time for the caramel to set in the refrigerator. This step is vital for achieving the right texture in the final product.
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Coating Tips: For a thicker chocolate layer, double dip your bars in melted white chocolate. It’s a delicious indulgence that elevates the overall treat!
Vegan Matcha Twix Bars Variations
Feel free to mix things up and create your own delicious twists on these delightful bars!
- Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a totally inclusive treat. This allows everyone to enjoy the bliss!
- Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of finely chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts into the shortbread for added texture and flavor. It creates a lovely crunch!
- Minty Fresh: Infuse your matcha caramel with a touch of peppermint extract for a refreshing mint twist. Perfect for a pick-me-up!
- Dark Chocolate: Instead of vegan white chocolate, use dark chocolate for a richer, more intense flavor. It complements the matcha beautifully!
- Spicy Kick: Stir a pinch of cayenne pepper into the caramel for a surprising kick of warmth that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.
- Fruitful Burst: Top the finished bars with dried cranberries or cherries to add a tart contrast against the sweet layers. It’s like a fruity surprise in every bite!
- Maple Sweetness: Replace granulated sugar in the shortbread with pure maple syrup for a natural sweetener that adds depth. It’s a lovely twist that brings warmth!
- Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle shredded coconut on top of the melted chocolate before it sets. This adds a tropical flair to your Vegan Matcha Twix Bars.
Vegan Matcha Twix Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe matcha powder?
Absolutely! Choosing high-quality matcha is crucial for the best flavor. Look for bright, vibrant green matcha, which indicates freshness. Avoid any that appear dull or have dark spots, as these may be older or of lower quality. Check the packaging for details on the type of matcha, opting for ceremonial grade if possible for the best taste.
How should I store leftover Vegan Matcha Twix Bars?
Very good question! To keep your bars fresh, place them in an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. The chill from the fridge keeps the caramel soft and the chocolate silky, resulting in a delightful treat every time!
Can I freeze my Vegan Matcha Twix Bars?
Absolutely! For long-term storage, you can freeze the bars in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To freeze them, first, make sure they are completely set. Then, layer parchment paper between the bars to prevent them from sticking together. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight for the best texture.
What should I do if my matcha caramel isn’t thickening?
If your matcha caramel isn’t reaching that luscious, caramel-like consistency, don’t worry! Continue to cook it on low heat; it might need a bit more time. Stir continuously for about 3-5 additional minutes to help it thicken. If it’s still not thickening, add a tiny splash of non-dairy milk (such as almond or oat) to loosen it up, and keep stirring until you achieve the desired texture.
Are these bars safe for those with nut allergies?
That’s an important consideration! Always check the packaging of your ingredients, as this can vary by brand. These Vegan Matcha Twix Bars are naturally nut-free if you’re using coconut oil for the caramel, but if you’re using any special substitutes (like nut-based milk), make sure those are nut-free options as well. Enjoying this treat means ensuring a safe experience for everyone!
Can I adjust the sweetness of the matcha caramel?
Absolutely, you can customize the sweetness! While the recipe calls for a specific amount of sugar, feel free to reduce it according to your taste preferences. Minding the sweetness level can enhance the unique matcha flavor, making your Vegan Matcha Twix Bars perfectly tailored to your liking. Start by reducing by a tablespoon and taste as you go!
Irresistible Vegan Matcha Twix Bars You Can Make at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the vegan butter and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add in the sweetened condensed oat milk and all-purpose flour. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Firmly press the dough evenly into silicone molds or a lined baking pan.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until the edges are lightly golden brown. Let cool completely.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sweetened condensed oat milk, granulated sugar, coconut oil, and matcha powder. Stir continuously until it begins to bubble.
- Once it bubbles, reduce the heat to low and continue stirring for about 5-7 minutes until it reaches a caramel-like consistency.
- Carefully pour the matcha caramel over the cooled shortbread base, ensuring it's evenly distributed. Let it set in the refrigerator or freezer for at least 1 hour.
- Melt the vegan white chocolate and stir until smooth. This will take around 1-2 minutes.
- Once set, gently remove each bar from the molds and dip into the melted white chocolate, ensuring each one is fully coated.
- Place the coated bars on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow to set in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes or until the chocolate hardens.