Okay, confession time—I’ve ruined more batches of baked cookies than I care to admit. Burnt edges, undercooked centers… you name it. That’s why these no-bake cookie dough bars became my go-to dessert! No oven disasters, just creamy, dreamy cookie dough layered over a chocolate crust and topped with silky chocolate. I first whipped these up for my niece’s birthday when I was short on time (and patience), and now they’re requested at every family gathering. The best part? You get that irresistible cookie dough flavor without worrying about raw flour or eggs. Trust me, these bars disappear faster than you can say “just one more bite.”
Why You’ll Love These No Bake Cookie Dough Bars
Let me count the ways these bars will become your new dessert obsession:
- No oven required – Perfect for hot summer days or when you just can’t be bothered to turn on the stove
- Ready in under 30 minutes (plus chilling time) – Faster than running to the store for a treat
- Totally safe to eat – No raw egg worries thanks to heat-treated flour
- Crowd-pleaser magic – I’ve never brought these to a party without getting recipe requests
- Customizable – Swap in your favorite mix-ins like M&Ms or chopped nuts
Seriously, what’s not to love?
Ingredients for No Bake Cookie Dough Bars
Gather these simple ingredients – most are probably already in your pantry! The magic happens when they come together just right. I’ve learned through trial and error (mostly error) that quality matters here, especially with the butter and chocolate.
- 2 cups chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed – Oreos work perfectly, but any chocolate creme cookie will do
- 5 tbsp melted butter – This binds our crust together beautifully
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Room temp is key for that creamy texture
- ¾ cup brown sugar – Pack it firmly for maximum caramel flavor
- 2 tbsp milk – Whole milk gives the richest result
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – The good stuff makes all the difference
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour (heat-treated*) – Bake at 350°F for 5 minutes to make it safe to eat
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips – They distribute better than regular chips
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips – For that luscious topping
- ¼ cup heavy cream – Makes the chocolate topping silky smooth
*Don’t skip heat-treating the flour! It’s quick and ensures your cookie dough is completely safe to enjoy raw.
How to Make No Bake Cookie Dough Bars
Now comes the fun part – let’s turn these simple ingredients into irresistible dessert bars! I’ll walk you through each step just like I do when my niece helps me in the kitchen (though she mostly just licks the spoon). The process is foolproof – I promise!
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cookie Crust
Grab those crushed cookies (I use a zip-top bag and rolling pin for therapy) and mix them with the melted butter until it looks like wet sand. Press this heavenly mixture into your lined 8×8 pan – really pack it down with the back of a measuring cup. This crust is your foundation, so make it nice and even! Pop it in the fridge while you work on the next layer – about 10 minutes does the trick.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough Layer
This is where the magic happens! Cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until it’s light and fluffy – about 2 minutes with a hand mixer. Then mix in the milk and vanilla. Here’s my little secret: add the heat-treated flour gradually so it incorporates evenly without overmixing. Fold in those mini chocolate chips gently – you want them distributed, not smashed. Spread this dreamy dough over your chilled crust, using slightly damp fingers to press it smooth.
Step 3: Add the Chocolate Topping
Time for the grand finale! Heat the heavy cream until it’s just bubbling at the edges, then pour it over the chocolate chips. Let it sit for 30 seconds (patience!) before stirring into that silky ganache we all love. Pour this over your cookie dough layer and tilt the pan to spread it evenly. Pro tip: work quickly here before it starts to set!
Step 4: Chill and Slice
Now the hardest part – waiting! Chill those beauties for at least 2 hours (I know, torture). When they’re firm, use the parchment paper to lift them out. Warm your knife under hot water and dry it between cuts for perfect slices. Warning: you’ll probably eat the first test piece immediately – I always do!
Tips for Perfect No Bake Cookie Dough Bars
After making these bars more times than I can count (okay fine, I keep count – it’s 37 batches!), here are my hard-earned secrets:
- Parchment paper is non-negotiable – Leave some overhang so you can lift the whole slab out easily
- Room temp butter is key – Too cold and it won’t cream; too warm and your dough gets greasy
- Chill between layers – That 10-minute fridge break for the crust makes all the difference
- Warm your knife – Dunk it in hot water and dry between cuts for picture-perfect slices
- Let them sit – The flavors meld beautifully if you can wait overnight (good luck with that!)
Follow these and you’ll get bars so good, people will think you bought them from a fancy bakery!
Ingredient Substitutions & Notes
Life happens, and sometimes you need to swap ingredients – I get it! Here’s what works (and what doesn’t) based on all my kitchen experiments:
- Gluten-free? Swap in a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend (still heat-treat it!) and use gluten-free cookies for the crust
- Out of heavy cream? Full-fat coconut milk works beautifully for the chocolate topping
- Butter alternatives – I’ve tried vegan butter with decent results, but the texture changes slightly
- Chocolate chips – Use whatever you love! Dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even butterscotch chips all work
Important note: Don’t skip heat-treating the flour! Just spread it on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5 minutes to kill any bacteria. Let it cool completely before using – I usually do this first while gathering other ingredients.
Serving and Storage
These bars are best served chilled straight from the fridge – the cool temperature makes that cookie dough layer extra dreamy! I like to cut them into squares and arrange them on a pretty plate, but let’s be real – they disappear too fast for fancy presentation. Store any leftovers (ha!) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Pro tip: layer them between parchment paper so they don’t stick together. They never last that long at my house, but they do firm up even more by day two, making them easier to handle.
Nutritional Information
Let’s be real—we’re not eating cookie dough bars for our health! But since you asked, here’s the scoop per bar (based on 12 servings): about 380 calories with 22g fat and 28g sugar. Of course, your exact numbers will vary depending on your ingredients. I use full-fat everything because life’s too short for skimpy desserts! These are treats meant to be enjoyed in moderation—or not, I won’t judge if you eat two.
FAQs About No Bake Cookie Dough Bars
Can I freeze these cookie dough bars?
Absolutely! These no bake dessert bars freeze beautifully. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to serve. I always keep a stash in my freezer for last-minute cravings!
What can I use instead of chocolate sandwich cookies for the crust?
Get creative! Graham crackers make a delicious alternative, or try vanilla wafers for a different flavor. For a nutty twist, I’ve used crushed pecans mixed with butter – just reduce the butter slightly since nuts release their own oils.
Are these safe for kids?
Yes! That’s why I love this chocolate chip dessert – the heat-treated flour eliminates any safety concerns. Just be mindful of the sugar content (and maybe hide them from the kids if you want leftovers!).
Can I make these ahead for a party?
They’re perfect easy party desserts! Make them up to 2 days in advance – the flavors actually improve as they sit. Store chilled until serving time, then cut into cute little squares right before your guests arrive.
Why did my chocolate topping crack when cutting?
This happens if the bars get too cold. Let them sit at room temp for 5 minutes before slicing – the chocolate will soften just enough. And always use a warm knife (my golden rule for perfect slices every time)!
Share Your Experience
Did you make these dreamy bars? I’d love to hear how they turned out! Leave a comment below or snap a photo of your creation – nothing makes me happier than seeing your cookie dough masterpieces. Happy baking (or should I say, happy no-baking)!
Print
Irresistible No Bake Cookie Dough Bars Ready in 30 Minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
No-Bake Cookie Dough Bars are a delicious and easy-to-make dessert. These bars feature a chocolate cookie crust, a creamy cookie dough layer, and a smooth chocolate topping. Perfect for parties or a sweet treat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed
- 5 tbsp melted butter
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour (heat-treated*)
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ¼ cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Make the Crust: Mix crushed cookies with melted butter. Press firmly into a parchment-lined 8×8-inch pan. Chill 10 minutes.
- Prepare Cookie Dough Layer: Beat butter and brown sugar until creamy. Mix in milk and vanilla. Gradually add heat-treated flour. Fold in chocolate chips. Spread evenly over the crust.
- Add Chocolate Topping: Heat cream until just simmering. Pour over chocolate chips and stir until smooth. Spread over cookie dough layer.
- Chill & Slice: Refrigerate for 2–3 hours or until firm. Slice into bars and serve.
Notes
- *Heat-treat flour by baking at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to make it safe to eat.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: no bake cookie dough bars, chocolate chip dessert, no bake dessert bars, easy party desserts