A delightful, no-bake dessert that brings together the nostalgic taste of cookie dough and rich chocolate, these Chocolate Cookie Dough Bars are an indulgent treat perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-Bake Treat – No oven required, just chill and serve.
- Rich and Decadent – Classic cookie dough flavor topped with smooth chocolate.
- Simple Ingredients – Uses pantry staples.
- Perfect for Parties – Easy to cut into squares for serving.
- Kid-Friendly – Safe-to-eat cookie dough thanks to heat-treated flour.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough Layer:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (heat-treated; see note)
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
For the Chocolate Topping:
- 1½ cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Directions
- Prepare the Cookie Dough Layer:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and salt until well combined.
- Gradually add the heat-treated flour, mixing until just incorporated.
- Stir in the milk to achieve a smooth, dough-like consistency.
- Fold in the semisweet chocolate chips evenly throughout the dough.
- Press the cookie dough mixture into a parchment-lined 9×9-inch baking pan, creating an even layer.
- Prepare the Chocolate Topping:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semisweet chocolate chips and unsalted butter.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is fully melted and smooth.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the cookie dough layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate topping is set.
- Once set, remove from the pan and cut into squares or bars.
- Enjoy these indulgent treats chilled or at room temperature.
Note: To heat-treat flour and eliminate potential bacteria, spread the flour on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes. Allow it to cool before using in the recipe.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 16 bars
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chilling Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per bar
Variations
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the cookie dough layer.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Swirl in 2 tablespoons of peanut butter into the chocolate topping before it sets.
- Dark Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips for a more intense flavor.
- Mini Chips: Use mini chocolate chips for a more even bite.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute gluten-free flour and ensure it’s heat-treated.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze bars in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
- Serving Tip: Let bars sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for a softer texture.
FAQs
Is raw flour safe to eat?
No, always heat-treat flour to kill any bacteria before using in no-bake recipes.
Can I use salted butter instead?
Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe by half.
What kind of chocolate chips should I use?
Semisweet is classic, but milk or dark chocolate chips work well too.
Can I use plant-based butter?
Yes, plant-based butter substitutes work fine in this recipe.
Do I need to line the pan with parchment paper?
It helps with easy removal, but you can grease the pan if preferred.
How long do these need to chill?
At least 2 hours, or until the topping is completely set.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely, they’re great for making 1–2 days in advance.
Can I halve the recipe?
Yes, use a smaller baking dish and reduce all ingredients by half.
What if my cookie dough is too dry?
Add a splash more milk until you reach a smooth consistency.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Definitely—try M&Ms, crushed cookies, or toffee bits.
Conclusion
Chocolate Cookie Dough Bars are the ultimate no-bake indulgence for cookie dough lovers. With a buttery, soft base and silky chocolate top, these treats are sure to disappear fast at any gathering or dessert table!
Print
Chocolate Cookie Dough Bars
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (Chill Time: 2 hours)
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
No-bake Chocolate Cookie Dough Bars blend the classic taste of cookie dough with rich chocolate, creating an indulgent treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough Layer:
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup packed light brown sugar
½ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups all-purpose flour (heat-treated; see note)
2 tablespoons milk
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
For the Chocolate Topping:
1½ cups semisweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
Make the Cookie Dough Layer:
Cream butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Mix in vanilla and salt.
Gradually add heat-treated flour until combined.
Add milk and stir to a smooth dough.
Fold in chocolate chips.
Press into a parchment-lined 9×9-inch pan.
Prepare the Chocolate Topping:
Melt chocolate chips and butter in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Spread evenly over the cookie dough layer.
Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set.
Slice into squares or bars and serve chilled or at room temp.
Notes
- Heat-treat flour by baking it on a sheet at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to make it safe for no-bake recipes.
- Bars store well in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
