Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cups
If you love the combination of chocolate and cookie dough, these Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cups are going to become your new favorite treat.
They are simple to make, packed with rich, creamy cookie dough filling, and surrounded by a smooth chocolate shell. This no-bake dessert is perfect for when you’re short on time but want something impressive and delicious.
Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cups
- No Oven Required: These no-bake treats are ideal for warm days or when you simply don’t want to turn on the oven.
- Rich and Creamy: The velvety cookie dough filling pairs perfectly with the smooth chocolate shell.
- Customizable: Add your own twist with different flavors, toppings, or even a drizzle of caramel or peanut butter.
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Chocolate Coating:
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Provide a rich and slightly bitter balance to the sweet cookie dough.
- Coconut Oil: Optional, but it gives the chocolate a shiny finish and makes it easier to work with.
For the Cookie Dough Filling:
- Unsalted Butter: Creates a creamy base for the cookie dough.
- Granulated Sugar and Brown Sugar: The combination gives the filling its classic sweet and slightly caramelized flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the dough’s flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: Needs to be heat-treated for safety, creating a safe-to-eat cookie dough.
- Milk: Adds moisture for a smooth dough.
- Mini Chocolate Chips: Tiny bursts of chocolate in every bite.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Coating
Start by melting 1 ½ cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil (if using). Use a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 20-second intervals and stirring until the chocolate is smooth.
Spoon a small amount of the melted chocolate into the bottom of lined or silicone muffin cups. Use the back of a spoon to spread the chocolate slightly up the sides, creating a shell. Freeze the cups for about 10 minutes to harden the chocolate.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough Filling
While the chocolate sets, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together in a mixing bowl. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Add the vanilla extract, milk, and salt, mixing until combined. Gradually stir in the heat-treated flour until a smooth dough forms. Finally, fold in the mini chocolate chips for that classic cookie dough texture.
Step 3: Assemble the Cups
Once the chocolate shells are firm, remove the tray from the freezer. Spoon a small amount of cookie dough into each cup, pressing it gently to flatten. Be sure to leave a bit of space at the top for the final chocolate layer.
Step 4: Add the Top Chocolate Layer
Melt the remaining chocolate chips with the second tablespoon of coconut oil (if using) in the same way as before. Spoon the melted chocolate over the cookie dough layer, spreading it to cover the surface completely. For decoration, sprinkle a few extra mini chocolate chips on top.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Return the cups to the freezer for 10–15 minutes or until the top chocolate layer is completely set. Once firm, remove the cups from their molds. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Tips for Success
- Heat-Treat the Flour: Always heat-treat the flour to kill any harmful bacteria. Spread it on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes, or microwave it in 30-second intervals until it reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Silicone Molds Work Best: Silicone muffin molds make it easy to pop the cups out once they’ve set. If using paper liners, refrigerate the cups before peeling the liners off to prevent sticking.
- Customize the Flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon, a drizzle of caramel, or swap mini chocolate chips for peanut butter chips to change the flavor profile.
Variations
- Dark Chocolate Delight: Use dark chocolate chips for a richer, more intense flavor.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Add a dollop of peanut butter in the center of the cookie dough before sealing with the top chocolate layer.
- Crunchy Addition: Sprinkle crushed nuts, toffee bits, or pretzel pieces on top for added crunch.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store these cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cups for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cups are perfect as a standalone dessert or can be paired with:
- Ice Cream: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a decadent treat.
- Coffee or Tea: Their sweetness pairs beautifully with a hot beverage.
- Party Platters: Add them to a dessert platter for gatherings and celebrations.
Why This Recipe Works
The balance of textures in these cups is what makes them irresistible. The hard chocolate shell contrasts beautifully with the soft, creamy cookie dough center. Plus, the combination of semi-sweet chocolate and the nostalgic flavor of cookie dough creates a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s easy to prepare and fun to share.
Nutritional Information
Each cup contains approximately 180 calories. To reduce the calorie count, you can use low-sugar chocolate chips or substitute coconut oil with a lighter option.
Final Thoughts
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cups are the ultimate no-bake treat for chocolate and cookie dough lovers alike. They’re quick to prepare, easy to customize, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a party or just to satisfy a sweet tooth, these cups are sure to be a hit.
So, grab your ingredients and get ready to indulge in this delightful dessert!