Easy No-Bake Cookie Dough Bars
Delight your tastebuds with these Easy No-Bake Cookie Dough Bars, a scrumptious treat ready within minutes! Perfect for busy weekdays or spontaneous cravings, these bars incorporate your favorite cookie ingredients without turning on the oven. You’re about to indulge in a blend of sweet nostalgia and modern convenience—making every bite memorable!
Growing up, my grandmother always had an array of sweet treats ready for our visits, but her no-bake creations were legendary. I remember reaching for those bars before we even settled in; they brought smiles and comfort. In homage to her culinary magic, I’ve crafted my own version that’s perfect for today’s bustling life. Let’s carry on the tradition with these irresistible bars that capture the essence of childhood in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These no-bake cookie dough bars are simply unbeatable for several reasons:
- No Oven Needed: Perfect for hot days when you want a treat without heating up your kitchen.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just about 20 minutes with ingredients you likely have on hand.
- Adaptable: Easily tweak the ingredients to accommodate dietary preferences or available pantry items.
- Kid-Friendly: A fun recipe to make with kids, enhancing their kitchen skills while enjoying dessert.
Ingredients Notes
To achieve the best results with this recipe, here’s what you need to know:
- Butter: Unsalted butter gives you control over the saltiness. Room temperature is best for easy mixing.
- Sugar: Use a mix of brown and white sugar for the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
- Flour: Always heat-treat your flour to ensure no risk from raw consumption—microwave for 1-2 minutes.
- Vanilla Extract: Opt for pure vanilla extract to infuse authentic flavor into every bite.
- Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chips are a classic choice, but dark chocolate or white chocolate chips can be fun variations.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Start by heat-treating your flour. This can be done by microwaving it in a bowl for about 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, to ensure it’s safe to eat raw.
Step 2
In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.
Step 3
Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Gradually incorporate the heat-treated flour, mixing until everything is well combined and the dough is smooth.
WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?
Just drop your email here and I'll send it right away! Plus you'll get new recipes from me every week. Yes please!
Step 4
Fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. This is a good point to taste and adjust, adding more vanilla or sugar as needed.
Step 5
Press the dough firmly into a lined square pan. Chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set before cutting into bars and serving.
Storage Options
These cookie dough bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag and store in the freezer. They can be frozen for up to 3 months and defrosted at room temperature or in the fridge overnight before serving.
Variations & Substitutions
Looking to switch things up? Try using almond flour for a gluten-free version, or mix in some chopped nuts for added crunch. For a dairy-free option, substitute butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips. You can also add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet-salty combo or a dash of cinnamon for a warm hint of spice.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are a perfect afternoon snack or dessert. Serve them at parties, picnics, or potlucks, or enjoy them as a late-night treat. They pair beautifully with a glass of milk, a hot cup of coffee or tea, or as part of a dessert platter alongside other no-bake treats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular, untreated flour? No, it’s essential to use heat-treated flour since these bars aren’t baked. Raw flour can contain harmful bacteria, so microwaving or oven-baking the flour prior ensures safety.
What alternatives do I have if I’m allergic to chocolate? If chocolate isn’t an option, try dried fruits like cranberries or raisins as a replacement. Carob chips are also a great non-chocolate alternative that will mimic a similar flavor profile.
How do I prevent my bars from becoming too crumbly? Ensuring your butter is at the right room temperature can help with texture. If the dough seems too dry, add a teaspoon or two of milk until you achieve the desired consistency. Pressing the dough firmly in the pan also helps maintain the bar shape once cooled.
Remember it later
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Easy No-Bake Cookie Dough Bars
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour heat-treated for safety
- 0.75 cup unsalted butter melted
- 0.75 cup brown sugar packed
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1.25 cups mini chocolate chips
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Line an 8x8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar, stirring until well mixed.
- Add the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the heat-treated flour and salt, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the mini chocolate chips.
- Press the mixture into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
- Once set, lift the bars out using the parchment overhang, and cut into squares. Serve chilled.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
