Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

These Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars are a perfect treat when you want the rich, comforting flavors of cookie dough but in a neat, sliceable form. Creamy, sweet, and studded with chocolate chips, they make a fun dessert or snack that’s easy to prepare and utterly satisfying.

I first tried these bars when I wanted something sweet that didn’t require turning on the oven on a hot day. Since then, they have become a go-to for casual get-togethers and after-school snacks because everyone loves that cookie dough taste without any raw egg worries.

Ingredients

• Unsalted Butter: softened to help create that rich, creamy dough texture
• Light Brown Sugar: packed for deep caramel notes and moisture in the dough
• Vanilla Extract: adds warmth and enhances the sweetness naturally
• All-Purpose Flour: provides the structure for the bars; make sure it is fresh for the best results
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: binds the dough together while adding sweetness and a slight chewiness
• Mini Chocolate Chips: give little bursts of chocolate throughout the bars for a classic cookie dough feel
• Creamy Peanut Butter: for the smooth, nutty topping that pairs perfectly with chocolate
• Milk Chocolate Chips: melt into the peanut butter topping creating a luscious finish; choose good quality chocolate for the richest flavor

Instructions

Scoop the Base Ready:

Line an 8x8 inch pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking and make it easy to lift out the bars later.

Mix the Butter and Sugar:

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar using a mixer for about 3 minutes until the mixture turns fluffy and light. This step is crucial because it adds air that helps the dough come together smoothly.

Add Vanilla:

Stir in the vanilla extract and mix just until combined to bring out the sweet, fragrant notes in the dough.

Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:

Switch the mixer to low speed and alternately add the all-purpose flour and sweetened condensed milk. This slow addition prevents lumps and helps achieve the right dough consistency.

Fold in Chocolate Chips:

Using a spatula, gently fold the mini chocolate chips into the dough ensuring even distribution without overmixing.

Press Into Pan:

Transfer the dough to the prepared pan and press it evenly into the bottom. Because the dough is sticky, flour your hands lightly if necessary to smooth it out.

Chill the Dough:

Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight. This step firms up the dough making it easier to top and slice.

Prepare the Topping:

In a microwave safe bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and milk chocolate chips. Heat in 30 second bursts, stirring each time until smooth and combined.

Spread the Topping:

Pour the peanut butter-chocolate mixture evenly over the chilled cookie dough base and smooth it out with a spatula.

Final Chill:

Return the pan to the refrigerator for at least 1 hour until the topping is set and firm enough to cut into bars.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is the peanut butter chocolate topping. It adds a creamy richness that is unexpected but perfectly complements the sweet cookie dough base. A family friend once told me they thought these bars taste like the ultimate childhood treat, which made me smile because that’s exactly the vibe I was going for.

Storage Tips

Store these bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. This helps them stay firm and the topping glossy. If you want to keep them longer, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap the creamy peanut butter for almond butter or sunflower seed butter if you need a nut-free option. Use semi-sweet chocolate chips instead of mini if that is what you have on hand. For a vegan take, replace butter with a plant-based alternative and use sweetened condensed coconut milk.

Serving Suggestions

These bars are fantastic served chilled on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert. They also work well alongside a cup of coffee or milk for a satisfying afternoon pick-me-up.

Enjoy these bars as the perfect no-bake treat that combines childhood nostalgia with a modern twist. Their ease and deliciousness make them an instant favorite for any occasion.

FAQs about Recipes

→ What gives the bars their soft texture?

The combination of brown sugar, butter, and sweetened condensed milk creates a moist and tender base with a chewy texture.

→ How are the peanut butter topping and chocolate chips combined?

They are melted together in short intervals and stirred until smooth, then spread evenly over the chilled base.

→ Can I substitute mini chocolate chips with regular chips?

Yes, regular chocolate chips can be used, but mini chips distribute more evenly throughout the bars.

→ What is the purpose of chilling the bars in the refrigerator?

Chilling firms up the base and topping, making it easier to cut and enhancing the bars' texture.

→ How do I prevent the cookie dough from sticking to my hands?

Lightly flour your hands or wet them slightly when pressing the sticky dough into the pan.