No-Bake Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars with M&M’s
If you’re looking for a quick, no-bake dessert that combines the flavors of chocolate chip cookie dough and colorful M&M’s, these No-Bake Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars with M&M’s are perfect!
With a graham cracker crust, a smooth cookie dough layer, and a pop of color from mini M&M’s, this dessert is both delicious and visually appealing. Ideal for parties, potlucks, or just a fun treat to enjoy at home, these bars are easy to make and satisfyingly sweet.
Ingredients for No-Bake Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars with M&M’s
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious treat:
For the Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cookie Dough Layer
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, heat-treated for safety
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips
For the M&M Topping
- 1 cup mini M&M’s
These simple ingredients come together to create a delightful dessert with layers of flavor and texture. The graham cracker crust adds a nice crunch, the cookie dough layer is creamy and sweet, and the M&M topping gives a fun, colorful finish.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are fully coated, creating a thick, buttery crust.
Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan lined with parchment paper or greased for easy removal. This layer forms a sturdy base for the cookie dough layer. Set the crust aside.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough Layer
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
This should take about 2-3 minutes, creating a creamy base for the cookie dough layer. Add the milk and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the mixture is smooth.
Step 3: Add the Flour
Gradually add the heat-treated flour to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing until just combined. Heat-treating the flour beforehand (by baking it at 350°F for 5 minutes or microwaving until it reaches 160°F) is essential for safety, as raw flour can carry bacteria. This step ensures your cookie dough layer is safe to eat.
Step 4: Fold in the Chocolate Chips
Once the dough is smooth, gently fold in the chocolate chips. Mixing them in by hand helps prevent overmixing, ensuring the dough stays soft.
The chocolate chips add bursts of chocolate throughout the dough, enhancing the cookie dough flavor.
Step 5: Layer the Cookie Dough Over the Crust
Spread the cookie dough mixture evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust, using a spatula to smooth it out.
This step is essential for creating a uniform layer, which makes for even, picture-perfect bars once they’re set.
Step 6: Add the M&M Topping
Sprinkle the mini M&M’s evenly over the cookie dough layer, pressing them lightly to ensure they stick. This colorful topping adds both visual appeal and a fun, crunchy texture to each bite.
Step 7: Chill the Bars
Cover the pan with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours, or until the bars are firm. Chilling allows the layers to set, making the bars easier to slice and enhancing the flavors.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Once the bars are firm, remove them from the refrigerator and slice them into squares. Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor. These bars can be stored in the refrigerator and enjoyed for up to a week.
Tips for Perfect No-Bake Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars with M&M’s
Use Room Temperature Butter for Creaming: This helps the butter, sugars, and vanilla mix smoothly for a creamy, lump-free cookie dough layer.
Heat-Treat the Flour: Raw flour can carry bacteria, so heat-treating it is essential. Spread it on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5 minutes or microwave it until it reaches 160°F.
Press the M&M’s Lightly: Pressing them gently into the dough layer helps them stick, so they don’t fall off when slicing.
Customize the Topping: For a different twist, try using different types of candy or even a drizzle of melted chocolate over the M&M’s for extra indulgence.
Why You’ll Love These No-Bake Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars with M&M’s
These bars are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Here’s why they’ll quickly become a favorite:
No-Bake Convenience: Perfect for hot days or when you want an easy dessert without using the oven.
Rich and Sweet Layers: The graham cracker crust, creamy cookie dough layer, and crunchy M&M’s provide a satisfying mix of textures and flavors.
Fun and Colorful: The M&M’s add a playful, colorful topping that’s great for kids and adults alike.
Great for Sharing: With 16 servings, these bars are ideal for gatherings, parties, or potlucks.
Nutritional Information and Serving Size
Each bar is approximately 350 calories, making it a satisfying treat. This recipe yields 16 servings, which is perfect for sharing or enjoying over a few days.
Final Thoughts
These No-Bake Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars with M&M’s are a fun and indulgent treat, combining classic cookie dough flavor with a colorful M&M topping. The layers of graham cracker crust, cookie dough, and chocolatey topping make each bite a delight. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are sure to impress both kids and adults.
Whether you’re making these for a party, a family gathering, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these bars are bound to be a hit. Enjoy each creamy, chocolatey bite and savor the playful mix of flavors and textures!