Name: No Bake Caramel Cookie Dough Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups almond flour; 1/4 cup coconut flour; 1/3 cup maple syrup; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup dairy-free chocolate chips (optional); 1 cup soft caramels or homemade date caramel; 2 tablespoons coconut cream (if making caramel sauce)

Why You’ll Love No Bake Caramel Cookie Dough Bars Recipe

These bars are everything you want in a dessert: simple, indulgent, and crowd-pleasing. Since they’re completely no-bake, they come together quickly with minimal effort. The combination of nutty cookie dough, creamy caramel, and chocolate creates a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. They’re also easy to make ahead, store beautifully in the fridge or freezer, and slice neatly for serving. Whether you’re preparing dessert for guests or making a treat just for yourself, this recipe delivers impressive results with very little work.

Ingredients

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

1/2 cup maple syrup or honey
1/2 cup coconut oil
3 cups almond flour
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup chocolate chips
1 1/2 cups caramel (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup chocolate chips
2 teaspoons coconut oil

Directions

Line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
In a microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan, gently melt the maple syrup (or honey) together with the coconut oil until smooth and combined.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond flour and salt. Pour the melted mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until a thick dough forms. Fold in the 1/4 cup chocolate chips.
Press the cookie dough mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
Pour the caramel over the cookie dough layer and spread evenly. Place the pan in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, or until the caramel firms up slightly.
Melt the remaining chocolate chips with the 2 teaspoons of coconut oil until smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer and spread evenly.
Refrigerate again until the chocolate is fully set. Once firm, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper and slice into squares.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 bars
Prep time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 30–45 minutes
Total time: Approximately 40–55 minutes

Variations

Nut-free version: Replace almond flour with sunflower seed flour for a nut-free alternative.
Extra chocolate: Stir additional mini chocolate chips into the cookie dough or sprinkle some on top of the melted chocolate layer.
Salted caramel twist: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the chocolate layer before it sets for a sweet-and-salty finish.
Dark chocolate topping: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer flavor.
Vegan option: Use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure the caramel and chocolate chips are dairy-free.

Storage/Reheating

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped for up to 3 months.

To serve from the freezer, allow the bars to thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes before enjoying. These bars do not require reheating, but if you prefer a softer texture, let them sit at room temperature briefly before serving.

FAQs

Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour?

Almond flour gives these bars their soft texture and nutty flavor. Regular flour is not recommended unless it is heat-treated and adjusted properly, as it will change the consistency.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, they are perfect for making ahead. Prepare them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

How do I cut clean slices?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. Slightly warming the knife under hot water can help create smooth edges.

Do these bars need to stay refrigerated?

Yes, refrigeration helps the caramel and chocolate layers stay firm and maintain structure.

Can I freeze No Bake Caramel Cookie Dough Bars?

Absolutely. Wrap them individually and store in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.

What type of caramel works best?

Thick, pourable caramel works best. You can use store-bought caramel sauce or homemade caramel that has cooled and thickened.

Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts can be mixed into the cookie dough layer or sprinkled over the caramel for added crunch.

Are these bars gluten-free?

When made with almond flour, the recipe is naturally gluten-free. Always check ingredient labels to be sure.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. The chilling time may need to be slightly extended.

Why is my chocolate layer cracking when sliced?

If the chocolate layer is very firm, let the bars sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cutting to prevent cracking.

Conclusion

No Bake Caramel Cookie Dough Bars are a simple yet indulgent dessert that combines classic flavors in an easy, no-oven recipe. With their soft cookie dough base, rich caramel center, and smooth chocolate topping, they’re guaranteed to satisfy any sweet tooth. Perfect for gatherings, meal prep treats, or an after-dinner indulgence, these bars are as convenient as they are delicious.