If you are craving a sweet treat that captures the nostalgic joy of cookie dough without the fuss of baking, these No Bake Cookie Dough Bars: Easy Recipe & Delicious Dessert Recipe are about to become your new favorite. Imagine rich, creamy cookie dough studded with chocolate chips, topped with a luscious layer of melted chocolate, all coming together in a dessert that’s unbelievably simple yet incredibly satisfying. These bars offer the perfect balance of buttery sweetness, gooey texture, and chocolatey goodness, making them ideal for parties, family snacks, or whenever you need a delightful pick-me-up. No oven required, no lengthy prep, just pure indulgence ready to share!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because it relies on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that bring out the best in each other. From the buttery base to the sweetened condensed milk that adds chewiness, every component plays a crucial part in creating that perfect cookie dough texture and flavor.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Provides richness and a soft, creamy texture to the dough.
- Granulated sugar (¾ cup): Adds sweetness and a subtle crunch.
- Light brown sugar (¾ cup, packed): Locks in moisture and imparts a warm, caramel note.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Elevates the overall flavor with its aromatic sweetness.
- Salt (¼ tsp): Balances the sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
- All-purpose flour (2 ¼ cups, heat-treated): The base of your cookie dough, heat-treating ensures it is safe to eat raw.
- Sweetened condensed milk (14 oz can): Binds the dough and adds a creamy sweetness that’s simply irresistible.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (2 cups): The classic mix-ins that offer melty chocolate pockets throughout.
- Mini chocolate chips (optional, ½ cup): Perfect for a decorative topping and an extra chocolate burst.
- Vegetable oil (2 tbsp): Helps melt the chocolate smoothly for the ganache topping.
How to Make No Bake Cookie Dough Bars: Easy Recipe & Delicious Dessert Recipe
Step 1: Heat-Treat the Flour
Before diving into mixing, it’s essential to make the flour safe to eat by heat-treating it. Spread 2 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour evenly on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway. Use a thermometer to ensure the temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This simple step keeps your bars safe and taste perfect.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar for 3-5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creaming process whips air into the base of your dough, which results in a wonderfully tender and moist texture.
Step 3: Add Vanilla, Salt, and Flour
Mix in the vanilla extract and salt to enhance the flavor, then gradually add the cooled, heat-treated flour. Mix on low speed to combine gently without overmixing, which keeps the dough tender and prevents it from becoming tough.
Step 4: Incorporate Sweetened Condensed Milk and Chocolate Chips
Pour in the sweetened condensed milk and stir until the dough is thick and sticky. Fold in 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips for melty bursts of chocolate throughout every bite. This is where the magic of cookie dough truly forms.
Step 5: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache Topping
Mix remaining semi-sweet chocolate chips with vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring gently until smooth and glossy; or melt over a double boiler for controlled melting. This luscious chocolate layer will perfectly crown your cookie dough bars.
Step 6: Assemble and Chill
Line a 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper for easy removal. Press the cookie dough evenly into the pan using your hands or a spatula. Pour the melted chocolate ganache on top and spread into a smooth layer. Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the top if desired. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set beautifully.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Lift the chilled bars out of the pan using the parchment paper. Place on a cutting board and slice into approximately 24 generous squares. These bars are ready to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, delivering a rich, comforting experience every single time.
How to Serve No Bake Cookie Dough Bars: Easy Recipe & Delicious Dessert Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the chocolate ganache for a sophisticated contrast, or dust with cocoa powder or powdered sugar for an elegant finish. Fresh berries or chopped nuts can also add texture and a burst of freshness that complements the sweetness.
Side Dishes
Serve these bars alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert duo. A hot cup of coffee or milk pairs beautifully, balancing the rich dessert with a comforting beverage.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist at parties, cut the bars into small bite-sized squares and arrange on a decorative platter. Layer them in clear jars or cellophane bags tied with ribbon as thoughtful homemade gifts. Even stacking them with parchment paper layers creates an eye-catching dessert tower.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover bars in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to one week. The chill helps maintain the bars’ firm texture and keeps the flavors fresh, so every bite tastes just as perfect as day one.
Freezing
You can freeze these bars for longer storage by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply transfer to the refrigerator overnight — the bars will retain their chewy, fudgy consistency.
Reheating
These bars are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is usually unnecessary. If desired, bring them to room temperature by leaving them out for 20-30 minutes to soften slightly before serving, allowing that smooth, creamy texture to shine.
FAQs
Can I use regular flour without heat-treating it?
Since this recipe features raw cookie dough, it’s important to heat-treat the flour to eliminate any harmful bacteria. If you skip this step, there’s a safety risk, so always treat the flour as directed.
What can I substitute for sweetened condensed milk?
Sweetened condensed milk provides moisture and sweetness, but if you’re looking for alternatives, you could try homemade versions or use condensed coconut milk for a dairy-free twist, though the texture may vary slightly.
Are these bars gluten-free?
The traditional recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make gluten-free bars, substitute with a heat-treated gluten-free flour blend, making sure to follow the heat-treatment step for safety.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even dried fruit can be folded into the dough with the chocolate chips for added texture and flavor. Just be mindful of the dough’s consistency when adding extra ingredients.
How long do these bars last at room temperature?
Due to the dairy content and chocolate, it’s best to keep these bars refrigerated and enjoy them within a week. At room temperature, they may become too soft or spoil faster, especially in warmer environments.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting about sinking your teeth into these No Bake Cookie Dough Bars: Easy Recipe & Delicious Dessert Recipe. With minimal ingredients, zero oven time, and maximum flavor, they are a fantastic treat to whip up anytime a sweet craving strikes. Whether it’s a casual get-together or a quiet evening indulgence, these bars deliver pure joy in every bite. Give this recipe a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
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No Bake Cookie Dough Bars: Easy Recipe & Delicious Dessert Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 bars 1x
Description
No Bake Cookie Dough Bars are an easy, delicious dessert featuring a safe-to-eat cookie dough base made with heat-treated flour and sweetened condensed milk, topped with rich melted chocolate and optional mini chocolate chips. These bars are perfect for satisfying your cookie dough cravings without the need for baking the bars themselves, making them a quick and indulgent treat ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, heat-treated
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Topping
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for melting chocolate)
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Heat-treat the flour: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread 2 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour evenly on a baking sheet. Bake for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the flour reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let the flour cool completely before using it to ensure safety and texture.
- Cream butter and sugars: In a large bowl or stand mixer bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add vanilla and salt: Beat in the vanilla extract and salt until fully combined to enhance the flavor of the dough.
- Combine flour: Gradually add the cooled, heat-treated flour to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Incorporate sweetened condensed milk: Pour in the sweetened condensed milk and mix until the dough is thick, sticky, and fully combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips: Gently fold 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips into the dough, distributing them evenly without breaking the chips.
- Melt chocolate ganache: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the remaining semi-sweet chocolate chips and vegetable oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until fully melted and smooth. Alternatively, melt over a double boiler while stirring carefully.
- Prepare pan: Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- Press cookie dough into pan: Transfer the cookie dough into the prepared pan. Use your hands or a spatula to press the dough firmly and evenly into the bottom of the pan.
- Top with melted chocolate: Pour the melted chocolate ganache evenly over the cookie dough layer. Use a spatula to spread it smoothly and evenly over the surface.
- Add optional mini chips: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips evenly over the melted ganache while it is still wet to add texture and visual appeal.
- Chill bars: Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, allowing the bars to set completely.
- Slice and serve: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Place on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut into approximately 24 bars. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Storage: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Heat-treating the flour is essential to make it safe for consumption since this recipe does not bake the bars themselves.
- If you don’t have a food thermometer for the flour, bake the flour for the full 7 minutes and stir often to prevent burning.
- You can substitute vegetable oil with coconut oil for a slightly different flavor in the ganache.
- The bars are best eaten chilled but can be enjoyed at room temperature if preferred.
- If desired, add a pinch of salt on top of the chocolate ganache for a salted chocolate flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
