Craving cookie dough but don’t want to wait for the oven? These Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars are the indulgent, no-bake treat your dessert dreams are made of. Soft, rich, and loaded with chocolate, they come together quickly and are perfect for everything from after-school snacks to holiday dessert trays.

This recipe is for anyone who loves the comforting taste of cookie dough but prefers an easier, egg-free version that’s safe to eat raw. And with a glossy layer of chocolate on top, every bite is both nostalgic and irresistible.

Why You’ll Love These Cookie Dough Bars

• No Baking Required: Great for summer days or quick desserts with zero oven time.

• Safe to Eat Raw: No eggs, and flour can be heat-treated if desired.

• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, bake sales, and gifting.

• Easy to Customize: Add sprinkles, nuts, or swirl in peanut butter — the possibilities are endless!

These bars are like your favorite chocolate chip cookies and a creamy fudge had a delicious dessert baby. Let’s dive in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cookie Dough Base:

• 1 cup butter, softened

• 1 cup brown sugar, packed

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• ¼ cup milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 cup chocolate chips

For the Chocolate Coating:

• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

• 1 tablespoon coconut oil or butter

Kitchen Equipment

• Large mixing bowl

• Electric mixer (hand or stand)

• Rubber spatula

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Microwave-safe bowl

• 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking dish

• Parchment paper

• Knife for slicing

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Cookie Dough Base

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This ensures a creamy texture and blends the sugars evenly.

Add the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

Gradually mix in the flour and salt, stirring until a soft, smooth dough forms. Fold in the chocolate chips last so they stay whole and spread evenly throughout the dough.

2. Set the Dough

Line your baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang for easy removal later. Press the cookie dough into the pan, smoothing the top with a spatula or spoon. Place the dish in the refrigerator for about an hour until the dough is firm.

3. Prepare the Chocolate Topping

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil (or butter). Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each session until fully melted and smooth.

Pour the melted chocolate over the chilled cookie dough and use a spatula to spread it into an even layer. Add a handful of extra chocolate chips or sprinkles on top if you’re feeling fancy!

4. Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for another 30 minutes until the chocolate sets. Once firm, lift the bars out of the dish using the parchment paper edges, cut into 12 pieces, and enjoy!

Expert Tips & Recipe Swaps

• Heat-Treating Flour: If you’re concerned about raw flour, spread it on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5 minutes to kill any bacteria. Let cool before using.

• Add-Ins: Stir in crushed pretzels, toffee bits, or even mini marshmallows for a twist.

• Dairy-Free Version: Use plant-based butter and almond milk, and make sure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.

• Nut Butter Swirl: Swirl in peanut butter or almond butter on top of the dough layer before adding the chocolate for extra decadence.

How to Store Leftovers

These bars should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them — they’ll keep for up to 3 months. Just let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving if frozen.

Food & Drink Pairings

• Milk: Classic pairing — you can’t go wrong.

• Coffee: Enjoy with a latte or cold brew for an indulgent afternoon treat.

• Ice Cream: Cut bars into cubes and use them as a decadent ice cream topping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake these cookie dough bars?

They’re not designed for baking and don’t include eggs or leavening agents, so they’re best enjoyed as a no-bake treat.

Are these safe to eat raw?

Yes! There are no eggs, and you can heat-treat the flour to make them safe to eat. Many packaged flours are pre-treated, but double-check the label or do it at home just in case.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just use a 9×13 inch pan instead of an 8×8, and you’re good to go.

Can I use dark chocolate for the topping?

Yes! Dark chocolate adds a sophisticated twist and balances the sweetness of the dough layer.

What’s the best way to cut them cleanly?

Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry between cuts for perfect squares every time.

Final Thoughts

These Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars are a dream come true for cookie dough lovers. They’re sweet, chewy, and rich with chocolate — all without turning on your oven. With a short list of pantry staples and a total chill time of less than two hours, you’ll have a dessert that looks bakery-worthy with minimal effort.

If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it with your fellow cookie monsters and save it for later. And if you’re hungry for more no-bake goodies and easy indulgent treats, subscribe to the blog and never miss a sweet bite!

Let’s keep those dessert cravings satisfied — one bar at a time. 🍫💛