No Bake Cookie Dough Bars

Are you ready for a sweet treat that satisfies your cookie cravings without the need to preheat your oven? These No Bake Cookie Dough Bars are the ultimate indulgence—rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, they’ll become your go-to dessert for every occasion. With a delicious combination of buttery cookie dough, mini chocolate chips, and sprinkles, this treat is perfect for sharing at parties, cozy nights in, or even just as a late-night snack. Let’s dive into this easy and fun recipe that requires no baking at all!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

No Bake Cookie Dough Bars are not just easy to make; they are also incredibly delicious. The texture is rich and indulgent, while the flavor is reminiscent of classic chocolate chip cookie dough—comforting and nostalgic. The simplicity of the recipe allows you to whip up a batch in no time, making it perfect for both baking novices and seasoned pros. Plus, they’re customizable for any occasion—add your favorite mix-ins or toppings and let your creativity shine!

Ingredients

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk (1 can)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup mini chocolate chips
• ¼ cup sprinkles plus more for topping
• 1 cup milk chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons shortening

How To Make No Bake Cookie Dough Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start by lining an 8×8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper. This will make it easy to lift the bars out later and ensure they don’t stick to the pan.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough Base

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk

Next, pour in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined and smooth.

Step 4: Incorporate the Flour

Slowly add the all-purpose flour to the mixture, stirring gently until fully combined. The dough will be thick and creamy.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Sprinkles

Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips and ¼ cup of sprinkles, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Transfer to the Pan

Using a spatula, spread the cookie dough mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Press down firmly to create an even layer.

Step 7: Melt the Chocolate Topping

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the milk chocolate chips and shortening. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.

Step 8: Pour the Chocolate Over the Dough

Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cookie dough layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Step 9: Add Extra Sprinkles

Sprinkle additional sprinkles on top of the melted chocolate, adding a fun pop of color to your dessert.

Step 10: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, or until set. Once firm, lift the bars out of the baking dish using the parchment paper, and cut into squares. Enjoy your delicious No Bake Cookie Dough Bars!

Expert Tips

• Make sure the butter is softened but not melted; this will help create the right texture for the cookie dough.
• For an extra rich flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar.
• When melting the chocolate, be careful not to overheat it, as this can cause it to seize up.
• Let the bars chill thoroughly in the refrigerator for the best slice and stability.

Variations and Customizations

• Swap the chocolate chips for white chocolate chips or peanut butter chips for a different flavor.
• Add nuts like chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Incorporate other mix-ins like dried fruit or shredded coconut for a unique twist.
• Top with crushed cookies or candy bars instead of sprinkles for added texture and flavor.

How to Store Leftovers

These No Bake Cookie Dough Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To keep them fresh, consider placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. If you want to enjoy them later, you can also freeze the bars for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-friendly container.

FAQ

Can I use alternative sweeteners in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute granulated sugar with your preferred sweetener, keeping in mind that the texture may vary slightly.

Is it safe to eat raw flour in this recipe?

Yes, to reduce the risk of consuming raw flour, it’s recommended to heat treat the flour before using it. Simply spread the flour on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, then let it cool before incorporating it into the cookie dough.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version of these delicious bars.

What can I use if I don’t have shortening?

If you don’t have shortening, you can use an equal amount of coconut oil or additional butter instead, keeping in mind that it may change the final texture slightly.

Conclusion

No Bake Cookie Dough Bars are a delightful treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re looking for an easy dessert for a gathering or simply a sweet reward after a long day, these bars are sure to impress. With their simple preparation and customizable ingredients, you can enjoy the taste of cookie dough without any baking fuss. So gather your ingredients and whip up a batch today—you won’t be able to resist their creamy, chocolatey goodness!