Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars

Description:

These indulgent Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars combine the sweet, rich flavors of classic cookie dough with a creamy, no-bake twist. Perfect for satisfying those cookie cravings without turning on the oven, these bars are packed with sweet chocolate chips and a buttery, soft dough that will melt in your mouth. Ideal for parties, snacks, or an easy homemade dessert, these bars are sure to be a hit with all ages!

Origin:

The concept of edible cookie dough has gained popularity in recent years, but it originally stemmed from the desire to enjoy raw cookie dough in a safe and edible form. The idea of no-bake dough-based bars has evolved from traditional cookie dough recipes, now widely known as a trendy and safe-to-eat treat.

Ingredients:

Required Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup mini chocolate chips

Optional Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon for added flavor
• 1 teaspoon espresso powder (for a deeper flavor profile)
• Sea salt for topping (for a sweet-salty balance)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy. This can be done using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing well after each addition. Be sure to incorporate it evenly into the dough.
4. Incorporate Sweetened Condensed Milk: Slowly pour in the sweetened condensed milk and stir until the dough becomes thick and sticky.
5. Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in the mini chocolate chips (and optional chopped nuts if desired).
6. Form the Bars: Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Press the cookie dough mixture evenly into the dish, ensuring it’s well compacted.
7. Chill and Set: Refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours or until the dough is firm enough to slice into bars.
8. Serve: Once chilled, remove from the fridge and cut into squares. Top with optional sea salt or cinnamon for added flavor.

Tips for Success:

• Use Room Temperature Butter: Softened butter helps create a smooth, even dough and makes mixing easier.
• Do Not Skip Refrigeration: Chilling the dough is crucial for achieving a firm texture and ensuring the bars hold together well.
• Ensure Flour is Heat-Treated: To safely consume raw flour, you can either bake it at 350°F for 5-10 minutes to kill any bacteria or use pre-packaged heat-treated flour.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you like a less sweet dough, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar slightly or use half brown sugar and half white sugar.

Recommendations:

• Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.
• Customization: Feel free to switch up the chocolate chips—dark, milk, or white chocolate, or even mix different varieties for a fun twist.
• Serving: These bars pair well with a glass of milk or coffee for a decadent treat.

Nutrition (per serving, approx.):

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 12g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 25g

(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)

Enjoy making these irresistible Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars!