Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars

Cookie dough usually feels like a secret treat — stolen before the cookies hit the oven. These chocolate chip cookie dough bars lean all the way into that craving. No baking, no waiting, just rich, sweet, buttery dough layered thick and packed with mini chocolate chips.

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Instead of scooping spoonfuls behind the scenes, you get clean, sliceable bars that feel satisfying and fun without turning on the oven. They’re soft, a little chewy, and every bite hits the sweet spot between nostalgic and dangerously good.

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Why Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars Are Always a Win

Real cookie dough flavor, real treat. But these bars go a little further — they’re built to slice clean, hold their shape, and still melt in your mouth.

The brown sugar base gives them a warm, familiar depth. The mini chocolate chips keep every bite dotted with little bursts of chocolate. And by skipping the baking, the dough stays creamy and soft without ever drying out. It’s about capturing that perfect dough texture — cool, rich, and a little fluffy — but shaped into neat bars instead of quick sneaks from the bowl.

• Brown sugar and vanilla build deep, cozy flavor
• Mini chocolate chips spread sweet bursts evenly
• Soft and creamy without being sticky
• Quick chill time sets them into easy-to-slice bars
• No eggs, so completely safe to eat as-is

Every square gives you that real cookie dough experience — but a little more polished.

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Simple Ingredients That Really Matter

No fancy tricks — just real pantry basics that, when combined, turn out seriously good.

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• All-purpose flour – Heat-treated to make it safe for no-bake treats
• Butter – Softened, not melted, for a fluffy texture
• Brown sugar – For rich, caramelly depth
• Granulated sugar – Balances out the sweetness without heaviness
• Vanilla extract – Rounds everything out
• Salt – Sharpens the flavor and keeps it from being too sweet
• Mini chocolate chips – So every bite gets a little chocolate punch
• Milk – Just a splash to bring it all together

Optional: drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a little extra polish.

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How to Make Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars

Nothing complicated — just a few basic moves and a short chill before you’re slicing.

• Heat-Treat the Flour
  Spread flour on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to kill any bacteria. Let cool completely.
• Cream the Butter and Sugars
  Beat softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This step keeps the dough from being too dense.
• Add Flavor and Structure
  Stir in vanilla and salt. Gradually mix in the heat-treated flour until combined, adding a little milk as needed to bring the dough together.
• Fold in the Chocolate Chips
  Gently fold in mini chocolate chips until evenly spread through the dough.
• Press and Chill
  Press the dough evenly into a parchment-lined 8×8 pan. Chill for at least 2 hours, then slice into bars.
• Top if You Like
  Drizzle melted chocolate over the top before slicing for a little extra finish.

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Easy Ways to Switch Things Up

Once you know the basics, it’s easy to flip the flavors depending on what you feel like.

• Swap mini chips for chopped dark chocolate chunks
• Add a handful of crushed pretzels for a salty twist
• Stir in rainbow sprinkles for a funfetti version
• Fold in peanut butter chips for extra richness
• Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a different depth

Each swap keeps it fun without losing that chewy, rich base.

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What to Serve with Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars

These bars are sweet and rich, so a few light pairings keep the balance right.

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Side Dish or Drink	Why It Works
Iced cold brew coffee	Sharp, bold counter to sweetness
Fresh berries	Adds juicy brightness
Whipped cream dollop	Lightens up the richness
Cold milk	Classic cookie pairing
Vanilla milkshake	Doubles down on creamy goodness
Chilled espresso shot	Deep coffee flavor balances sweet dough
Light lemon sorbet	Refreshing contrast after rich bites

You don’t need much — just something clean and simple to let the bars shine.

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How to Store and Keep Them Fresh

Cookie dough bars hold up beautifully with just a little care.

• Refrigerate in Airtight Container – Keeps them firm and fresh.
• Best Eaten Within 5 Days – After that, they start to dry slightly.
• Freeze for Longer Storage – Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer bag.
• Thaw Before Serving – Let sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes before eating for the best texture.
• Slice After Chilling – Chilling first gives you clean cuts without sticky edges.

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FAQs About Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars

Is the flour really safe to eat?

Yes — heat-treating the flour kills any bacteria so it’s safe for no-bake desserts.

Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of mini?

You can, but mini chips spread out more evenly for smoother bites.

Do I have to chill them?

Definitely — chilling firms up the dough and makes slicing neat and easy.

Can I make them dairy-free?

Use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk for an easy swap that still tastes great.

What’s the best way to cut them cleanly?

Use a sharp knife, and wipe it clean between slices for neat edges.