The Ultimate No-Bake Dessert for Cookie Dough Lovers
If you’re a fan of sneaking bites of raw cookie dough from the bowl (who isn’t?), these No-Bake Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars are about to become your new favorite indulgence. Safe to eat, easy to make, and layered with rich chocolate ganache, these bars deliver all the flavor of classic cookie dough in a fun, sliceable treat—no oven required.
Ready to Satisfy Your Cookie Dough Craving? Let’s Make This No-Bake Treat!
Whether you’re prepping a quick dessert for a party or just need a sweet fix that comes together fast, this no-bake cookie dough bar recipe is your answer. With a soft, buttery dough and a velvety chocolate topping, these bars are a must-try. Let’s dive in.
Introduction
There’s something undeniably nostalgic about cookie dough—the rich butteriness, the soft texture, and the gooey chocolate chips. But eating raw dough comes with risks due to raw eggs and untreated flour. That’s why this no-bake chocolate chip cookie dough bar recipe is so perfect: it gives you all the joy of cookie dough without any of the hazards.
These bars skip the eggs and use heat-treated flour to ensure food safety. Topped with a luscious chocolate ganache, they’re rich, decadent, and require minimal ingredients. You don’t even need to turn on your oven, making this the ultimate treat for hot days, quick snacks, or stress-free desserts.
Tools Needed, Serving Size, and Time Commitment
Tools Required:
- Mixing bowls (2)
- Hand or stand mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Saucepan (for ganache)
- Loaf pan (8×4 or 9×5 inches)
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
Number of Servings:
- Makes approximately 10 bars
Time Required:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 5 minutes (for ganache)
- Chill time: 1 hour
- Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need for this no-bake dessert.
For the Cookie Dough Base:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour (heat-treated)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
For the Chocolate Ganache Topping:
- 1½ cups semisweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Extra chocolate chips (optional, for garnish)
Note on Heat-Treating Flour: To safely eat raw flour, you can spread it on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes, or microwave it in a bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between, until it reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and creamy. This base sets the tone for your dough’s soft texture.
Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
Mix in the milk and vanilla extract, beating until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add in the heat-treated flour and salt, mixing on low until everything is fully incorporated and a dough forms.
Step 4: Fold in the Chocolate Chips
Using a spatula, gently fold in the chocolate chips. Be sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 5: Press Dough into Pan
Line a loaf pan with parchment paper (this makes removal easier). Press the cookie dough mixture into the pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula or the back of a spoon. Chill in the fridge for 20 minutes.
Step 6: Make the Ganache
While the dough chills, heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it’s steaming but not boiling. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for 1–2 minutes, then stir until completely smooth and glossy.
Step 7: Add Ganache Topping
Pour the ganache over the chilled cookie dough base. Spread evenly to coat. If desired, sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top for texture.
Step 8: Chill and Set
Return the pan to the fridge and chill for at least 1 hour, or until the ganache is firm and the dough has set.
Step 9: Slice and Serve
Once firm, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper. Slice into 10 bars using a sharp knife. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Recommendations for Recipe Success
1. Don’t Skip Heat-Treating the Flour
Raw flour can carry bacteria. Heat-treating ensures the cookie dough is safe to eat and still has the right texture.
2. Use Room Temperature Butter
This helps you create a smooth, fluffy dough without overmixing. Softened butter blends better with sugar and enhances the creamy texture.
3. Customize Your Mix-Ins
This recipe is a great base for creativity. Try:
- Mini M&Ms
- Chopped peanut butter cups
- White chocolate chips
- Chopped nuts
4. Chill Before Adding Ganache
Letting the base chill ensures the warm ganache won’t melt it. This keeps your layers distinct and beautiful.
5. Slice with a Warm Knife
Run your knife under hot water and wipe dry before slicing. This makes clean cuts through the ganache and dough layers.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve straight from the fridge for a firmer texture
- Let sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes for a softer, melt-in-your-mouth consistency
- Pair with a cold glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week
- Freezer: Freeze individual bars wrapped in parchment and stored in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I bake these cookie dough bars instead?
This recipe is specifically designed to be no-bake. Baking it would change the texture and could result in an undercooked or oily consistency. If you want a baked version, try traditional cookie bar recipes.
2. Are these bars safe to eat raw?
Yes, because they contain no eggs and use heat-treated flour, these bars are completely safe to eat raw.
3. Can I make them dairy-free?
Yes. Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative, use a dairy-free milk, and opt for vegan chocolate chips and coconut cream in place of heavy cream.
4. What if I don’t have brown sugar?
You can substitute brown sugar with more granulated sugar, but brown sugar adds depth and moisture. For best results, try to use it.
5. How do I know when the ganache is set?
The ganache should be firm to the touch and not jiggle when you tilt the pan. This usually takes 1 hour of refrigeration but may vary depending on fridge temperature.
Conclusion
These No-Bake Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars are the ultimate indulgence for cookie lovers who crave something sweet, soft, and sinfully good. With a base that mimics the texture and flavor of classic cookie dough and a silky layer of chocolate ganache, these bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
No baking means no fuss—just mix, chill, and enjoy. They’re safe to eat, easy to customize, and perfect for nearly any occasion: potlucks, birthday parties, or quiet nights in.
Once you try these, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought cookie dough treats again. So what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy a slice of cookie dough heaven.
