Name: No-Bake Chocolate Cookie Dough Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups blanched almond flour; ½ cup natural creamy almond butter (or peanut butter); ¼ cup pure maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon fine sea salt; ¼ cup mini chocolate chips; ½ cup dairy-free chocolate chips (for topping); 1 tablespoon coconut oil (for topping)

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These no-bake chocolate cookie dough bars are a dream come true for anyone craving a sweet treat without turning on the oven. With a rich, chewy texture and layers of chocolatey goodness, I make them with wholesome ingredients like almond flour, maple syrup, and almond butter. Naturally sweetened and entirely gluten-free, they’re the perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition.

No-Bake Chocolate Cookie Dough Bars

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 ½ cups blanched almond flour

½ cup natural creamy almond butter (or peanut butter)

¼ cup pure maple syrup

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

½ teaspoon fine sea salt

¼ cup mini chocolate chips

For the Chocolate Topping:

½ cup dairy-free chocolate chips

1 tablespoon coconut oil

Directions

I line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper to make it easy to lift out the bars later.

In a large bowl, I mix together the almond flour, almond butter, maple syrup, vanilla, and sea salt until a dough forms.

I gently fold in the mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed.

Then, I press the dough evenly into the prepared pan, using a spatula to smooth out the top.

For the topping, I melt the chocolate chips with coconut oil using a microwave or double boiler until smooth.

I pour the melted chocolate over the cookie dough layer and spread it evenly.

The bars chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour until set.

Once firm, I lift the bars out of the pan with the parchment paper and slice them into squares.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12 bars.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Chill Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Each bar contains approximately 210 kcal.

Variations

I sometimes swap almond butter with peanut butter for a more classic cookie dough flavor.

For a crunchier texture, I add chopped nuts or cacao nibs to the dough.

To switch up the topping, I drizzle white chocolate or sprinkle sea salt flakes on top before chilling.

If I want to reduce sugar further, I use stevia-sweetened chocolate chips or unsweetened coconut flakes.

Storage/Reheating

I store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
For longer storage, I freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They last up to 3 months frozen.
To enjoy from frozen, I let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes—no reheating necessary.

FAQs

What can I use instead of almond flour?

I prefer almond flour for its texture and mild flavor, but finely ground oat flour or cashew flour also work well in this recipe.

Can I make these bars nut-free?

Yes, I substitute sunflower seed butter for almond butter and use oat flour instead of almond flour. Just keep in mind the flavor will be slightly different.

Do I need to melt the chocolate in a specific way?

I usually melt the chocolate with coconut oil in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, but a double boiler works just as well and helps prevent overheating.

Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?

Yes, I sometimes use honey, although it will make the bars a bit thicker and sweeter. Maple syrup keeps the texture a little softer and more pliable.

Are these bars safe for kids?

Absolutely. I make them for kids often since they’re free from refined sugar and packed with nutrient-dense ingredients. Just make sure there are no nut allergies.

Conclusion

These no-bake chocolate cookie dough bars are one of my go-to healthy treats. I love how they combine the comforting flavor of cookie dough with the richness of chocolate, all while being naturally sweetened and easy to make. Whether I’m meal-prepping snacks or serving dessert to friends, this recipe is always a reliable crowd-pleaser.

Recipe:

No-Bake Chocolate Cookie Dough Bars

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 12 bars
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

These no-bake chocolate cookie dough bars are rich, chewy, and naturally sweetened with wholesome ingredients like almond flour, maple syrup, and almond butter. Gluten-free, vegan, and perfect for a quick treat without using the oven.

Ingredients

1 ½ cups blanched almond flour

½ cup natural creamy almond butter (or peanut butter)

¼ cup pure maple syrup

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

½ teaspoon fine sea salt

¼ cup mini chocolate chips

½ cup dairy-free chocolate chips (for topping)

1 tablespoon coconut oil (for topping)

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Instructions

Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mix together the almond flour, almond butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and sea salt until a dough forms.
Fold in the mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Melt the dairy-free chocolate chips with coconut oil in the microwave or a double boiler until smooth.
Pour the melted chocolate over the cookie dough layer and spread evenly.
Chill the bars in the fridge for at least 1 hour until set.
Once firm, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper and slice into squares.