Cookie Dough Bark

Imagine the moment when you bite into a piece of decadent, creamy cookie dough that’s perfectly paired with rich, smooth chocolate. That’s exactly what this Cookie Dough Bark offers a fun, easy-to-make treat that brings together the best of cookie dough and chocolate. Every bite is indulgent, with a delightful balance of sweetness and just the right amount of chewiness. Whether you’re craving a quick snack or need a simple yet irresistible dessert, this bark is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth in the most satisfying way.

Behind the Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of raw cookie dough and chocolate both feel like comfort foods we turn to when we want a treat that hits all the right notes. This Cookie Dough Bark brings that nostalgic sense of indulgence into a simple and quick-to-make recipe. It’s the kind of dessert that requires minimal effort but packs a whole lot of flavor.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Cookie dough has been a beloved snack for many, especially for those of us who sneak a little bite while baking cookies. The idea of turning cookie dough into a bark with melted chocolate gives this classic treat a new twist. Whether you love it for the raw dough or the chocolate-covered goodness, this dessert is always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love Cookie Dough Bark

This recipe checks all the boxes, making it an absolute favorite for any occasion.

Versatile: You can mix and match your favorite add-ins, from nuts to sprinkles to candies. The possibilities are endless!

Budget-Friendly: With just a handful of simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious treat that won’t break the bank.

Quick and Easy: It’s ready in no time, and you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s perfect for when you want a homemade dessert with minimal effort.

Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or switch up the chocolate type (white, milk, or dark) to suit your tastes.

Crowd-Pleasing: This is a treat everyone will enjoy, from kids to adults, and it’s perfect for parties or gatherings.

Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this bark ahead of time and store it in the fridge, making it an ideal option for busy days.

Great for Leftovers: If you happen to have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), this bark holds up well for several days and stays fresh.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Don’t overheat the chocolate: Melt the chocolate gently over low heat or in short bursts in the microwave. Overheating can cause the chocolate to seize.
• Use parchment paper: It helps with easy removal of the bark once it’s set, and prevents sticking.
• Let the bark chill: After spreading the cookie dough and chocolate layers, allow the bark to chill fully in the fridge before breaking it into pieces for the best texture.
• Mix-ins are optional: While not necessary, adding nuts or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top can elevate the flavor.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Baking Sheet: You’ll need a baking sheet to spread out the bark, making sure it’s lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Microwave-Safe Bowl: For melting the chocolate, a microwave-safe bowl makes the process quick and easy.
• Spatula: To spread the cookie dough and chocolate evenly, a spatula is essential.
• Refrigerator: You’ll need a fridge to set the bark and allow it to firm up.

Ingredients in Cookie Dough Bark

This simple recipe requires just a few ingredients to create the perfect combination of flavors and textures.

1. Butter: ½ cup (1 stick) – Provides the rich, creamy base for the cookie dough and helps give it that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
2. Brown Sugar: ½ cup – Adds the perfect amount of sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor.
3. Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon – Elevates the flavor of the dough, giving it a warm, sweet aroma.
4. Flour: 1 cup – The base of the dough, giving it the perfect texture and structure.
5. Salt: ½ teaspoon – Enhances the sweetness of the dough and balances the flavors.
6. Mini Chocolate Chips: ½ cup – Adds little bursts of chocolate in every bite of the dough, enhancing the overall taste.
7. Dark Chocolate: 8 ounces – The coating for the bark, providing a rich, deep chocolate flavor that contrasts beautifully with the cookie dough.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Butter: You can use margarine as an alternative for a dairy-free version.
• Brown Sugar: White sugar or coconut sugar can also work in place of brown sugar.
• Vanilla Extract: Almond extract can be used if you prefer a different flavor.
• Flour: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Mini Chocolate Chips: Swap for any type of chocolate chips you prefer, or even chopped chocolate bars for a more rustic look.

Ingredient Spotlight

Mini Chocolate Chips: These little chocolate morsels are the perfect size for mixing into the cookie dough. They melt slightly into the dough, adding bursts of chocolate in every bite, which perfectly balances the sweetness of the dough.

Instructions for Making Cookie Dough Bark

Making this bark is as easy as mixing, melting, and chilling. Here’s how to do it:

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar together until creamy. Add in the vanilla extract and salt. Gradually mix in the flour until well combined. Stir in the mini chocolate chips.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Spread the cookie dough mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet, smoothing it out with a spatula.
4. Assemble the Dish: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate in short bursts, stirring after each one until completely smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the cookie dough layer and spread it out evenly.
5. Cook to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the fridge and allow the bark to chill for at least 1-2 hours, or until fully set.
6. Finishing Touches: Once the bark is set, break it into pieces of your desired size.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the bark immediately, or store it in an airtight container in the fridge for later.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The cookie dough is soft and chewy, providing a delightful contrast to the rich and crisp chocolate layer. As the chocolate hardens, it creates the perfect snap when you break a piece, while the cookie dough inside remains smooth and satisfying. This balance of textures, along with the sweet, slightly salty flavor, is what makes this treat truly irresistible.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• For extra flavor: Try adding a pinch of sea salt to the top of the bark before it sets.
• Customize the chocolate: You can use milk or white chocolate if you prefer a sweeter bark.
• Use different mix-ins: Chopped nuts, sprinkles, or dried fruit can be mixed into the cookie dough for added texture.

What to Avoid

• Overmixing the dough: Be gentle when mixing the dough to prevent it from becoming too dense.
• Using too much heat to melt the chocolate: Make sure to melt it gently to avoid scorching the chocolate.
• Not letting it chill long enough: The bark needs to set properly to break into clean pieces, so don’t rush this step.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 250
Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can make this bark ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to freeze it, wrap the bark tightly in plastic wrap or wax paper, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.

How to Serve Cookie Dough Bark

This bark is perfect for snacking on its own or as part of a dessert platter. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of milk for the ultimate treat.

Creative Leftover Transformations

If you have leftovers, crumble the bark over ice cream or mix it into a milkshake for an indulgent treat. You can also use it as a topping for cupcakes or brownies.

Additional Tips

For a fun twist, try adding a bit of peanut butter to the dough mixture for a richer flavor. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate or add dried fruit for extra texture.

Make It a Showstopper

To make this bark truly stunning, drizzle a bit of white chocolate over the top and sprinkle with colorful sprinkles or crushed nuts. This will elevate the presentation and make it even more eye-catching.

Variations to Try

1. Peanut Butter Cookie Dough Bark: Mix in peanut butter for a creamy, nutty twist.
2. Nutty Cookie Dough Bark: Add chopped almonds or walnuts into the dough for a crunch.
3. Coconut Cookie Dough Bark: Add unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical flavor.
4. Mint Chocolate Cookie Dough Bark: Swap the chocolate for mint-flavored chocolate and add a few mint chips to the dough.
5. S’mores Cookie Dough Bark: Stir in mini marshmallows and graham cracker crumbs into the cookie dough for a s’mores-inspired treat.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A1: Yes, simply use gluten-free flour in place of regular flour.

Q2: How do I store leftover bark?
A2: Store leftover bark in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Q3: Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
A3: Absolutely! Feel free to swap it out for any chocolate variety you prefer.

Q4: Can I freeze this bark?
A4: Yes, wrap the bark tightly and freeze for up to three months.

Q5: Can I add nuts to the bark?
A5: Yes, you can add your favorite nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the cookie dough mixture.

Q6: Is it necessary to chill the bark?
A6: Yes, chilling the bark allows it to set properly and makes it easier to break into pieces.

Q7: How long does it take for the bark to set?
A7: It takes about 1-2 hours in the fridge to fully set.

Q8: Can I use other types of chips in the dough?
A8: Yes, feel free to experiment with different types of chips, such as white chocolate or butterscotch.

Q9: How thick should the bark be?
A9: Aim for about ¼ inch thickness for the ideal texture and consistency.

Q10: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A10: Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it until ready to use.

Conclusion

This Cookie Dough Bark is the perfect sweet treat to indulge in when you’re craving something simple yet indulgent. It’s the kind of dessert that’s sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings while offering that irresistible cookie dough flavor. With minimal ingredients and a short prep time, you’ll have a batch of this delicious bark ready in no time. Whether you’re sharing with friends or savoring it on your own, trust me, you’re going to love this one!

Print