No Bake Cookie Dough Bars Recipe

If you’re looking for a knockout treat that’s irresistibly chewy, decadently rich, and requires absolutely zero oven time, No Bake Cookie Dough Bars are about to become your go-to dessert. With a sweet, buttery base studded with chocolate chips and finished off with a melt-in-your-mouth caramel chocolate glaze, these bars are pure nostalgia and comfort in every slice. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like the combination of creamy condensed milk, brown sugar, and chocolate to evoke childhood joy—except now you can make it in your own kitchen, no baking required!

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about No Bake Cookie Dough Bars is how easily their amazing flavor comes together from staple ingredients you likely already have. Each component brings its own magic, from gooey texture to that sweet, salty finish, creating a dessert that feels both effortless and special.

• Flour: Provides structure and signature cookie dough chew — be sure to heat-treat it if you’re concerned about safety!
• Butter: Adds that unmistakable rich flavor and helps bind everything together into creamy perfection.
• Brown sugar: Infuses each bite with caramel notes and moistness for a classic cookie dough flavor.
• Vanilla: A splash of vanilla pulls the whole recipe together, offering warmth and aroma.
• Salt: Just a touch enhances sweetness and deepens flavor.
• Sweetened condensed milk: The secret to the luscious, creamy texture and added sweetness that ties it all together.
• Mini chocolate chips: Tiny bursts of chocolate in every bite—plus a few for topping for good measure!
• Caramel flavored candy chips: Melting these for the icing creates an irresistible, glossy caramel layer.

How to Make No Bake Cookie Dough Bars

Step 1: Cream Together Butter and Sugar

Grab your mixing bowl and combine the stick of butter with that wonderfully packed brown sugar. Using a stand mixer will save your arm, but mixing by hand can work in a pinch. Beat until the mixture turns fluffy and light—the texture here will set the stage for the whole batch!

Step 2: Add Vanilla, Salt, and Sweetened Condensed Milk

Pour in the vanilla, sprinkle in the salt, then slowly add your can of sweetened condensed milk. Blend well—this gives the dough its signature creamy, melt-in-your-mouth consistency. You’ll notice the aroma is already irresistible at this point!

Step 3: Incorporate the Flour

Slowly add the flour (remember, you can gently heat it beforehand if you want to make it extra safe!). Mix on high just until everything combines smoothly—don’t overdo it, or your dough may get stiff.

Step 4: Fold in the Mini Chocolate Chips

Gently turn the chocolate chips into the dough using a spatula or wooden spoon. You want those chips dispersed evenly, promising an extra bit of chocolate in every cut bar.

Step 5: Press Dough Into Pan and Chill

Grease a 9 x 9-inch pan, transfer your dough, and press it down into an even layer. Pop the whole pan in the freezer for about 45 minutes to an hour so it firms up and slices cleanly later on.

Step 6: Make the Caramel Chocolate Icing

Once your dough is nicely chilled, grab a microwave-safe bowl and add the caramel flavored candy chips. Microwave for a minute, give it a stir, then continue heating in 30-second bursts until smooth and melted.

Step 7: Add More Chocolate Chips to the Icing

Stir 4 ounces of mini chocolate chips into your warm caramel mixture until melted (another 30 seconds in the microwave can help!). Let this icing cool off for a couple of minutes—you want it pourable, not hot.

Step 8: Top, Chill, and Serve

Pour the icing over your chilled dough layer and spread it evenly with a spatula. Return the pan to the fridge until the top sets—then it’s officially time to slice and enjoy the best No Bake Cookie Dough Bars!

How to Serve No Bake Cookie Dough Bars

Garnishes

For an extra touch of flair, sprinkle a few more mini chocolate chips or a drizzle of melted chocolate over the top just before serving. A small pinch of flaky sea salt is a game-changer, taking the sweet-salty combo to another level.

Side Dishes

No Bake Cookie Dough Bars pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or even a fresh fruit salad. The bars are pretty rich and sweet, so lighter sides like berries or a simple espresso make a great contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serving these bars at a party? Cut them into bite-sized cubes and stack them on a tiered platter, or serve them in individual cupcake liners for a grab-and-go dessert. They also make super cute (and drool-worthy) edible gifts when wrapped in parchment and boxed up for friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover No Bake Cookie Dough Bars in an airtight container in your fridge to maintain their chewy texture. They’re good for up to a week—assuming you can resist them for that long!

Freezing

These bars also freeze beautifully. Once the icing has set, cut the bars and arrange them with parchment between layers in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months—just thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to indulge again.

Reheating

No reheating required! These bars are meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you prefer a softer texture, let them sit out for a few minutes after pulling from the fridge or freezer before serving.

FAQs

Do I need to heat-treat the flour before using it?

While many eat raw flour without issue, heat-treating your flour in the oven or microwave for a few minutes is a quick and easy safety step—especially if you’re serving kids or anyone with a sensitive tummy.

Can I substitute vegan ingredients to make these dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap the butter for a high-quality vegan margarine, use sweetened coconut condensed milk, and pick dairy-free chocolate chips. The flavor will still be fantastic.

What if I can’t find caramel flavored candy chips?

No worries! You can use regular butterscotch chips, peanut butter chips, or more chocolate chips instead. Each variation brings a fun twist to the recipe.

Are No Bake Cookie Dough Bars safe to eat at room temperature?

Yes, you can leave them out for a few hours (great for parties!). Just remember they hold their shape best when chilled, especially if your kitchen is warm.

Can I add mix-ins or customize the bars?

Definitely—think chopped nuts, sprinkles, white chocolate chips, or even a swirl of peanut butter. Customizing is part of the fun, and these bars are very forgiving.

Final Thoughts

Every bite of these No Bake Cookie Dough Bars is a nostalgic, soul-satisfying treat you’ll want to share with everyone—or maybe keep all to yourself! With no oven required and endless possibilities for mixing, topping, and serving, there’s no reason not to whip up a batch. Trust me, you’re about to make everyone’s new favorite dessert.

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