No-Bake Cookie Dough Bars

Featured in Elegant Small Bites.

Healthy no-bake cookie dough bars using chickpeas and dairy-free chocolate. Ready in 100 minutes, vegan and gluten-free.
Barbara Chef
Recipe by Barbara
Updated on Fri, 14 Feb 2025 15:13:45 GMT
A stack of chocolate and peanut butter bars. Pin it
A stack of chocolate and peanut butter bars. | gracefulflavors.com

These No-Bake Cookie Dough Bars transform humble chickpeas into a decadent, fudgy treat that satisfies chocolate cravings while staying vegan and allergy-friendly. Each layer delivers rich flavor and perfect texture, from the brownie base through the cookie dough to the homemade chocolate topping.

After experimenting with various bean-based desserts, these bars were my breakthrough moment. The way the chickpeas blend into creamy cookie dough texture convinced even the skeptics in my family that healthy can be incredibly delicious.

Essential Ingredients

  • Chickpeas: Creates perfect dough texture
  • Sunflower seed butter: Adds richness without nuts
  • Raw cacao butter: Provides authentic chocolate flavor
  • Coconut flour: Helps achieve proper consistency
  • Natural sweetener: Erythritol works beautifully
  • Vanilla extract: Enhances cookie flavor
  • Dairy-free chocolate chips: For authentic texture
  • Baking soda: Creates classic cookie taste
A chocolate cake with peanut butter and chocolate chips on top. Pin it
A chocolate cake with peanut butter and chocolate chips on top. | gracefulflavors.com

Step-by-Step Creation

Prepare base:
Blend brownie layer ingredients.
Make dough:
Process chickpeas until completely smooth.
Combine carefully:
Mix in remaining ingredients.
Layer components:
Press each layer firmly.
Create chocolate top:
Melt cacao butter properly.
Chill thoroughly:
Allow layers to set.
Cut cleanly:
Use hot knife.
Store properly:
Keep chilled.

Texture Control Mastery

Process chickpeas until absolutely smooth. Drain and dry beans thoroughly. Room temperature ingredients blend better. Press layers firmly to prevent separation.

Through countless batches, I've learned that patience is key. My nephew's amazed reaction when I revealed the secret chickpea ingredient made all the testing worthwhile.

Storage Success

Keep bars refrigerated. Cut before fully set for cleanest lines. Store layers separate if making ahead. Freeze for up to 3 months.

A stack of three chocolate peanut butter bars. Pin it
A stack of three chocolate peanut butter bars. | gracefulflavors.com

Flavor Variations

After many experiments, these combinations work beautifully: Mint chocolate: Add peppermint extract. Espresso: Include coffee powder. Orange chocolate: Add orange zest. Salted caramel: Sprinkle sea salt.

These bars prove that healthy desserts don't have to taste "healthy." Whether served at a party or kept for afternoon treats, they satisfy both sweet cravings and nutritional goals.

Recipe Tips & Questions

→ Why use chickpeas in cookie dough?
Chickpeas create a creamy texture while adding protein and fiber, making these bars healthier.
→ Can I use regular butter instead of cacao butter?
No, cacao butter helps the chocolate layer set properly at room temperature.
→ How should I store these bars?
Store in the fridge. Let them thaw slightly before eating for best texture.
→ Can I use regular sugar?
Yes, you can use regular powdered sugar instead of erythritol if preferred.
→ Do these taste like chickpeas?
No, the vanilla and chocolate mask any bean flavor completely.

Healthy No-Bake Cookie Dough Bars

Fudgy, rich cookie dough bars made with chickpeas and chocolate, naturally vegan and gluten-free.

Prep Time
40 Minutes
Cook Time
~
Total Time
40 Minutes
Recipe by: Barbara

Recipe Type: Tasty Snacks

Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly

Style of Cooking: American

Makes: 9 Serves

Dietary Notes: Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

What You'll Need

→ Cookie Dough Layer

01 2 (15 oz) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
02 1/2 cup sunflower seed butter (120g)
03 1 cup powdered erythritol or powdered sugar (120g)
04 Pinch of sea salt
05 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
06 5 tablespoons coconut flour (40g)
07 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
08 1/3 cup dairy-free chocolate chips (60g)

→ Chocolate Fudge Layer

09 4 tablespoons melted cacao butter (50g)
10 1/3 cup sunflower seed butter (80g)
11 2 1/2 tablespoons maple syrup (50g)
12 1-2 tablespoons cacao or cocoa powder

Let's Cook!

Step 01

Line 8½x6 inch pan with foil or parchment paper

Step 02

Process chickpeas, sunflower butter and vanilla until smooth. Add remaining ingredients except chips, then stir in chips

Step 03

Melt cacao butter in water bath, whisk in other ingredients until smooth

Step 04

Press cookie dough in pan. Top with chocolate fudge mixture. Freeze 60 minutes

Cook's Notes

  1. Can use white beans instead of chickpeas
  2. Any nut or seed butter works
  3. Store leftovers in fridge

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • 8½x6 inch baking pan
  • Food processor or blender
  • Parchment paper

Allergy Notes

Always check ingredients carefully for allergens. When in doubt, please consult your healthcare provider.
  • Contains coconut (flour)

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

These values are estimates and should be used as a general guide.
  • Calories: 290
  • Total Fat: 17 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 22 g
  • Protein: 9 g