No-Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars

These No-Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars are a decadent treat that combines layers of soft cookie dough, rich chocolate, and creamy peanut butter. They’re easy to make, require no oven time, and are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No-Bake: No need to turn on the oven—just mix, layer, and chill!
• Perfect Flavor Combo: Peanut butter, chocolate, and cookie dough in one bite.
• Quick and Easy: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this dessert effortless.
• Great for Sharing: These bars are ideal for potlucks, parties, or just as a treat for yourself.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough Layer:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, heat-treated (to make it safe to eat raw)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chocolate chips

For the Chocolate Base:

• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon butter

For the Peanut Butter Topping:

• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Cookie Dough Layer:
   • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy.
   • Add vanilla extract and milk, mixing until well combined.
   • Gradually add the heat-treated flour and salt, stirring until a soft dough forms. Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
2. Assemble the Layers:
   • Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal. Press the cookie dough mixture into the dish to create an even layer, and set aside.
3. Make the Chocolate Base:
   • In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate chips and 1 tablespoon of butter in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval until smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the cookie dough layer, spreading it out evenly.
4. Prepare the Peanut Butter Topping:
   • In another microwave-safe bowl, melt the peanut butter with the remaining 1/2 cup of chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth and creamy. Pour this over the chocolate layer, spreading it evenly.
5. Garnish and Chill:
   • Sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top for garnish if desired. Cover the dish and chill in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours, or until fully set.
6. Slice and Serve:
   • Once firm, lift the bars out of the dish using the parchment paper. Slice into squares and enjoy!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• 8×8-inch baking dish
• Microwave-safe bowls for melting chocolate
• Spatula for spreading layers

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: Serve these bars cold or at room temperature. They’re perfect for parties, potlucks, or just as an after-dinner treat.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• Freezing: These bars can be frozen for up to 2 months. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container.

Recipe Variations

• Extra Crunch: Add 1/2 cup of chopped peanuts or pretzel pieces to the cookie dough layer for added texture.
• Double Chocolate: Use white chocolate chips in the cookie dough layer and dark chocolate for the base for a layered chocolate effect.
• Salted Peanut Butter Topping: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top of the peanut butter layer for a sweet-salty contrast.

Helpful Notes

• Heat-Treating Flour: To make the raw flour safe for no-bake recipes, spread it on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes, or microwave it in 30-second intervals until it reaches 160°F.
• Avoid Over-Melting: Microwave the chocolate in short intervals to prevent overheating, which can cause it to seize.
• Even Layers: Use a spatula to spread each layer evenly for a polished look and even bites.

Tips from Pastry Chefs

• Chef Christina Tosi: “If you want a chewier texture, chill the cookie dough layer for 15 minutes before adding the chocolate and peanut butter layers.”
• Chef Ina Garten: “To add depth to the chocolate flavor, try a mix of dark and semisweet chocolate chips.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, crunchy peanut butter will add a nice texture to the bars.

Q2: Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour and heat-treat as needed.

Q3: What can I substitute for the peanut butter?
For a peanut-free option, use almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter.

Q4: Can I add other mix-ins to the cookie dough layer?
Absolutely! Try adding mini M&Ms, chopped nuts, or even shredded coconut for variety.

Q5: How can I prevent the chocolate from sticking to the knife when slicing?
Warm your knife slightly and wipe it between cuts for clean slices.

Enjoy These Decadent Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars!

These Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars are the perfect no-bake treat with layers of cookie dough, chocolate, and creamy peanut butter. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, they’re an indulgent dessert that everyone will love. Serve these at your next gathering or keep them all to yourself—you won’t regret it!

Print