Cookie Dough Bars

If you’ve ever found yourself daydreaming about the sweet, rich flavor of cookie dough, these Cookie Dough Bars are about to become your new favorite indulgence. Imagine biting into a decadent bar that perfectly captures the essence of classic cookie dough, layered with chocolate and colorful M&Ms. These bars are not only easy to make but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re preparing for a party, a family gathering, or just a cozy night in, these Cookie Dough Bars will satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving more.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

Cookie Dough Bars are the perfect treat for any occasion. They combine the nostalgic flavor of cookie dough with the convenience of a bar, making them easy to slice, serve, and share. The best part? You can customize them with your favorite mix-ins! Whether you prefer classic chocolate chips or want to jazz things up with colorful M&Ms, the options are endless. Plus, these bars are no-bake, which means you can whip them up without turning on the oven—perfect for those hot summer days or when you’re looking to save time in the kitchen.

Shopping List

• 10 tablespoons salted butter (softened)
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (baked at 350 degrees F for 5 minutes)
• 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup miniature chocolate chips
• 1 cup miniature M&Ms
• Cooking spray
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• 3/4 cup miniature M&Ms

Equipment at a Glance

• Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients.
• 9×9 inch baking pan – to set your bars.
• Spatula – for spreading the mixture evenly.
• Oven – for baking the flour (this step is crucial!).
• Microwave-safe bowl – for melting chocolate.
• Parchment paper – for easy removal of bars from the pan.

Cooking Cookie Dough Bars: The Process

Step 1: Prepare Your Flour

Before you begin mixing your ingredients, it’s essential to bake the flour. This step eliminates any potential bacteria and gives your cookie dough that perfect texture. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and spread the flour on a baking sheet. Bake for 5 minutes, then let it cool.

Step 2: Create the Cookie Dough Base

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Add in the vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

Step 3: Add the Flour and Condensed Milk

Gradually mix in the cooled flour, alternating with the sweetened condensed milk. This will create a rich, creamy cookie dough. Once combined, fold in the miniature chocolate chips and 1 cup of miniature M&Ms, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 4: Press the Mixture into the Pan

Lightly coat a 9×9 inch baking pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Pour the cookie dough mixture into the pan and press it down firmly with a spatula until it forms an even layer.

Step 5: Melt the Chocolate Topping

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons of salted butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.

Step 6: Assemble the Bars

Pour the melted chocolate over the pressed cookie dough layer, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining 3/4 cup of miniature M&Ms for a colorful finish.

Step 7: Chill and Set

Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, or until they are firm enough to cut. Once set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper, and slice them into squares.

Health-Conscious Tweaks

• Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
• Replace sweetened condensed milk with homemade or low-sugar alternatives.
• Opt for dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor and lower sugar content.

Things That Go Wrong

• Bars are too crumbly? Make sure you’ve added enough sweetened condensed milk to bind the mixture.
• Chocolate topping is too thick? Add a little bit of vegetable oil to thin it out.
• Bars are too soft? Ensure they are refrigerated for enough time to set properly.
• Too much flour? Remember to bake it first to get the right texture in your bars.

Best Ways to Store

To keep your Cookie Dough Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll last up to a week, but we doubt they’ll last that long! You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just make sure to wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight.

Cookie Dough Bars FAQs

Can I use gluten-free flour in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure the blend you’re using is suitable for baking.

What can I substitute for sweetened condensed milk?

You can make your own by combining 1 cup of milk with 1 cup of sugar and simmering it until thickened or use a dairy-free version available in stores.

Can I add different mix-ins?

Yes! Feel free to customize your Cookie Dough Bars with nuts, dried fruit, or your favorite candies. The possibilities are endless!

How do I know when the bars are ready to cut?

The bars should be firm to the touch and have set up nicely in the refrigerator. If they’re still gooey, give them more time to chill.

Hungry for More?

If you love these Cookie Dough Bars, be sure to check out more delightful recipes that will satisfy your sweet cravings. From chewy brownies to fluffy cupcakes, there’s always something new to explore in the world of baking.

There’s nothing quite like the joy of making and sharing sweets with loved ones. These Cookie Dough Bars are an easy, delicious treat that everyone will adore. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the delightful process of creating this sweet masterpiece. Your taste buds will thank you!