Name: No-Bake Cookie Dough Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 30
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ cups unsalted butter; 1½ cups brown sugar; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 3 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1 tsp kosher salt; ⅓ cup whole milk; 2 cups mini chocolate chips

Dive into the delightful experience of making no-bake cookie dough. This is a simple yet enjoyable recipe that is perfect for those who are looking for a quick dessert or snack. The dough, filled with chocolate chips and a hint of vanilla, is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. No need for an oven, just mix and chill!

Photos of No-Bake Cookie Dough Recipe

The ingredients for this recipe are quite common and can be found in most supermarkets. However, you might need to search for graham cracker crumbs, which are usually located in the baking section. If you can't find graham cracker crumbs, you can make your own by grinding whole graham crackers in a food processor. Mini chocolate chips might not be a staple in your pantry, but they are worth the purchase for this recipe due to their bite-size appeal and easy distribution in the dough.

No-Bake Cookie Dough Ingredients

Unsalted butter: This is used as the base of the cookie dough, providing a rich and creamy texture.

Brown sugar: Adds a hint of caramel flavor to the dough which complements the chocolate chips.

Vanilla extract: Gives a depth of flavor and enhances the sweetness of the dough.

Graham cracker crumbs: Gives the dough a slightly crunchy texture and adds a nice contrast to the sweet dough.

Kosher salt: Balances out the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the cookie dough.

Whole milk: Helps bind the ingredients together.

Mini chocolate chips: Gives a burst of chocolate in every bite of the dough.

One reader, Allin Bloom says:

This no-bake cookie dough recipe is a game-changer! It's so easy to make and tastes absolutely delicious. The combination of graham cracker crumbs and chocolate chips is heavenly. Plus, the no-bake aspect makes it a perfect treat for any occasion. Highly recommend giving it a try!

Allin Bloom

Techniques Required for Making No-Bake Cookie Dough

How to prepare the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet or large tray with parchment paper or wax paper to prevent the cookie dough from sticking.

How to mix the ingredients: Use a stand mixer to combine the butter, brown sugar, and vanilla until light and fluffy, which should take about 1 to 2 minutes on medium speed.

How to incorporate the dry ingredients: Add the graham cracker crumbs, milk, salt, and 1 cup of the mini chocolate chips to the mixer and mix until well combined.

How to shape the cookie dough: Use a 2 tablespoon scoop to portion the cookie dough onto the prepared tray, then spread the remaining chocolate chips over the dough and gently press them in. Roll the dough to ensure the chocolate chips are evenly distributed.

How to chill the cookie dough: Place the tray of cookie dough in the refrigerator until it is firm, which will help the flavors meld and make the dough easier to handle.

How To Make No-Bake Cookie Dough

You can make a cookie dough without having an oven with these few ingredients we’ve listed so you can enjoy a treat whenever you feel like it.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1½cupsunsalted butter,softened
1½cupsbrown sugar
2tspvanilla extract
3cupsgraham cracker crumbs
1tspkosher salt
⅓cupwhole milk
2cupsmini chocolate chips,semisweet

Instructions

Prepare a baking sheet or large tray with parchment paper or wax paper
To your stand mixer add the butter, brown sugar and vanilla on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 1 to 2 minutes.
Add in the graham cracker crumbs, milk, salt and 1 cup of the mini chocolate chips.
Using a 2 tablespoon scoop, scoop the cookie dough onto a tray with the remaining chocolate chips spread out over it and roll over more chips.
Refrigerate until serving.

Recipe Notes

Don’t dip into a bowl of chips or it will get way too many onto the bites, make sure they are spread out.

Nutrition

Calories: 212.88kcal
Fat: 14.16g
Saturated Fat: 8.33g
Trans Fat: 0.46g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.75g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.03g
Carbohydrates: 20.69g
Fiber: 0.52g
Sugar: 16.98g
Protein: 1.25g
Cholesterol: 26.91mg
Sodium: 97.03mg
Calcium: 35.43mg
Potassium: 22.50mg
Iron: 0.45mg
Vitamin A: 78.88µg
Vitamin C: 0.09mg

Crucial Technique Tips for Perfect No-Bake Cookie Dough

When preparing the cookie dough, ensure that the butter and brown sugar mixture is light and fluffy before adding the other ingredients. This will ensure that the sugar is fully incorporated into the butter, resulting in a smoother and more evenly mixed dough. If the mixture is still grainy, continue to beat it on medium speed for another minute or two. Also, when rolling the dough in the chocolate chips, apply gentle pressure to help the chips adhere to the dough better.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing No-Bake Cookie Dough

Plan ahead: Prepare all your ingredients and equipment before starting to make the recipe. This will help you work more efficiently and avoid any last-minute surprises.

Use pre-made ingredients: Consider using pre-made graham cracker crumbs and store-bought chocolate chips to save time on preparation.

Chill dough while prepping: While you prepare the baking sheet, place the cookie dough in the refrigerator to firm up, making it easier to scoop and shape.

Double the batch: Make a larger batch of cookie dough and store the extra in the freezer for future use. This way, you'll have cookie dough ready to go whenever you need it.

Clean as you go: Wash and put away utensils and equipment as you progress through the recipe to keep your workspace organized and minimize cleanup time later.

Substitute Ingredients For No-Bake Cookie Dough Recipe

unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar creamy texture and flavor to butter in no-bake recipes.
brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a healthier alternative to brown sugar, providing a similar sweetness and caramel-like flavor.
graham cracker crumbs - Substitute with oat flour: Oat flour can be used as a gluten-free alternative to graham cracker crumbs, providing a similar texture and nutty flavor.
whole milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative to whole milk, providing a creamy texture and subtle nutty flavor.
mini chocolate chips - Substitute with cacao nibs: Cacao nibs can be used as a healthier alternative to mini chocolate chips, providing a rich chocolate flavor and crunchy texture.

Best Way to Present This Delectable No-Bake Treat

Elevate the cookie dough: Instead of simply scooping the cookie dough onto a tray, consider using a ring mold to create a perfectly shaped portion. This will give the dish a more refined and elegant presentation.
Garnish with edible flowers: Add a touch of sophistication by garnishing the cookie dough with delicate, edible flowers such as pansies or violets. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a subtle floral note to the dish.
Create a chocolate drizzle: Drizzle a rich, dark chocolate sauce on the serving plate in an artistic manner before placing the cookie dough on top. This will add a luxurious touch and create a stunning visual contrast.
Serve on individual dessert plates: Present the cookie dough on individual, chilled dessert plates to create a sense of indulgence and luxury. This will also allow for a more focused and intimate dining experience.
Accompany with a fruit compote: Serve the cookie dough alongside a vibrant and tangy fruit compote, such as raspberry or passionfruit, to provide a refreshing contrast and balance out the sweetness of the dish.
Dust with edible gold or silver flakes: For an opulent touch, dust the cookie dough with edible gold or silver flakes. This will add a touch of glamour and sophistication to the presentation.
Incorporate a decorative tuile: Create a delicate and crisp tuile to accompany the cookie dough. Shape the tuile into an elegant design, such as a spiral or lace pattern, to add a visually stunning element to the dish.
Present on a marble serving board: Serve the cookie dough on a sleek and polished marble serving board to create a striking visual impact. The contrast between the creamy cookie dough and the cool marble surface will be visually captivating.

Essential Tools for Making No-Bake Cookie Dough

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen tool used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for making doughs, sauces, and grinding nuts or spices.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is an essential kitchen tool used for combining ingredients, marinating, and mixing batters. It comes in various sizes and materials, such as stainless steel, glass, or ceramic.

Storing and Freezing No-Bake Cookie Dough: A Guide

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for the no-bake cookie dough recipe:

Store the cookie dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Make sure to press a piece of plastic wrap directly on top of the cookie dough to prevent it from drying out.
To freeze the cookie dough, follow these steps:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper.
2. Scoop the cookie dough into balls using a cookie scoop or spoon.
3. Place the cookie dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not touching each other.
4. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 1-2 hours, or until the cookie dough balls are firm.
5. Transfer the frozen cookie dough balls to a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container.
6. Label the bag or container with the date and contents.
7. Store the frozen cookie dough in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To thaw the frozen cookie dough, remove the desired number of balls from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours, or until they are soft enough to eat. Do not leave the cookie dough at room temperature for too long, as it may spoil.
If you want to enjoy the cookie dough as a frozen treat, you can eat the balls straight from the freezer. Just be careful not to bite into them too hard, as they may be quite firm.

Fascinating Facts About No-Bake Cookie Dough

The no-bake cookie dough recipe is a delicious treat that can be enjoyed without the need for baking. It's a great option for those who want to satisfy their sweet tooth without turning on the oven. This recipe is perfect for chocolate chip lovers and can be easily customized with additional mix-ins such as nuts or dried fruit. Plus, the no-bake aspect makes it a quick and convenient dessert option for any occasion.

Is Making No-Bake Cookie Dough at Home Cost-Effective?

This no-bake cookie dough recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, and the recipe yields a large batch of cookie dough. The use of pantry staples like graham crackers and chocolate chips makes it budget-friendly. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it an economical dessert option. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Is This No-Bake Cookie Dough Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This no-bake cookie dough recipe is undeniably delicious, but it's not the healthiest treat out there. Here's why:

The recipe is high in saturated fat due to the generous amount of butter used. Consuming too much saturated fat can increase the risk of heart disease and other health issues.
Brown sugar and chocolate chips contribute to the high sugar content, which can lead to tooth decay, weight gain, and blood sugar imbalances when consumed in excess.
The recipe lacks fiber, protein, and other essential nutrients that are important for a balanced diet.

However, there are ways to make this recipe a bit healthier without sacrificing too much of its indulgent taste:

Reduce the amount of butter and replace some of it with healthier alternatives like Greek yogurt, applesauce, or mashed avocado. This will lower the saturated fat content while maintaining a creamy texture.
Opt for dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate. Dark chocolate contains more antioxidants and less sugar, making it a healthier choice.
Incorporate some rolled oats or whole wheat flour into the recipe to increase the fiber content and add a nutty flavor.
Experiment with natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or dates to reduce the amount of refined sugar used.
Add some chopped nuts or seeds to the dough for a boost of protein, healthy fats, and extra crunch.

Editor's Opinion: Thoughts on This No-Bake Cookie Dough Recipe

This no-bake cookie dough recipe is a delightful treat for those who love the taste of cookie dough. The combination of butter, brown sugar, and graham cracker crumbs creates a rich and indulgent flavor, while the mini chocolate chips add a delightful texture and bursts of sweetness. The simplicity of the recipe makes it easy to prepare, and the no-bake aspect is convenient for those who want a quick and delicious dessert. However, it's important to note that consuming raw flour and eggs may pose a health risk, so it's best to use heat-treated flour and pasteurized eggs for safety. Overall, this recipe offers a delightful and nostalgic indulgence for cookie dough lovers.

Enhance Your No-Bake Cookie Dough Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes with a hint of parmesan cheese and chives

Grilled Vegetables: Colorful and flavorful grilled vegetable skewers with a balsamic glaze

Fruit Salad: Refreshing fruit salad with a honey-lime dressing and a sprinkle of mint leaves

Delicious Alternatives to No-Bake Cookie Dough

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in. The combination of fresh tomatoes, basil, and cream creates a rich and flavorful soup that will warm you up from the inside out.

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled lemon herb chicken is a light and refreshing dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue. The zesty lemon and aromatic herbs infuse the chicken with bright flavors that will have your taste buds dancing.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Mango coconut chia pudding is a tropical and healthy dessert that is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. The combination of creamy coconut milk, sweet mango, and nutritious chia seeds creates a delicious and guilt-free treat.

Appetizers and Main Dishes That Go Well with No-Bake Cookie Dough

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory and indulgent stuffed mushrooms. The combination of creamy cheese, flavorful herbs, and earthy mushrooms will leave everyone wanting more.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with these delicious bruschetta bites. The fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and tangy balsamic glaze create a burst of flavor in every bite.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: As a culinary chef, I love to create a creamy and indulgent pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and flavorful Alfredo sauce. The combination of savory chicken and velvety sauce is sure to satisfy any pasta lover's cravings.

Beef Stir Fry: One of my favorite main courses to prepare is a sizzling beef stir fry. This dish is packed with tender strips of beef, vibrant vegetables, and a savory sauce that brings everything together. The sizzle and aroma of the stir fry always make for an exciting and delicious dining experience.

Why trust this No-Bake Cookie Dough Recipe:

This recipe is a trusted favorite among cookie dough enthusiasts. With a perfect balance of unsalted butter, brown sugar, and graham cracker crumbs, it promises a delightful texture and flavor. The addition of mini chocolate chips adds a delightful burst of sweetness. The use of whole milk ensures a creamy and luscious consistency. Our team of editors has meticulously reviewed and tested this recipe to guarantee its success. You can trust that this no-bake cookie dough recipe will exceed your expectations and become a go-to treat for any occasion.

Want to share your experience with this no-bake cookie dough recipe or discuss variations you've tried? Join the conversation in the Baking and Desserts forum section!

FAQ:

How long does the cookie dough need to refrigerate before serving?

The cookie dough should be refrigerated for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will help it firm up and hold its shape.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but you may want to reduce the amount of additional salt added to the recipe to balance the saltiness.

Can I use a different type of cracker for the crumbs?

Yes, you can use a different type of cracker for the crumbs, such as digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers, for a slightly different flavor and texture.

Can I substitute the whole milk with a non-dairy alternative?

Yes, you can use a non-dairy alternative such as almond milk or soy milk, but keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the cookie dough.

How should I store any leftover cookie dough?

Any leftover cookie dough can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.