Name: Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream Bars Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 2 h 20 min
Total time: 2 h 50 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup packed brown sugar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups mini chocolate chips, divided; 1 pint vanilla ice cream, softened; 10 ounces (283 grams) milk chocolate, melted (for coating)

Blending creamy chocolate chip cookie dough into a frozen treat creates an irresistible dessert that sparks pure joy.

Nostalgic memories of sneaking spoonfuls of raw dough melt together with cool, smooth ice cream.

Sweet memories dance across taste buds with each decadent bite.

Cool and smooth textures combine in a playful dessert that feels like a childhood dream.

Unexpected layers of comfort emerge from this simple yet indulgent recipe.

Summer afternoons become magical moments when you scoop into these delightful frozen bars.

Chill out and savor every delicious moment of this crowd-pleasing sensation.

Indulge in No-Bake Delight: Enjoy a treat that requires zero oven time, making it perfect for hot summer days or when you want a quick dessert without turning on any appliances.
Customize with Ease: Swap vanilla ice cream for your favorite flavor or add extra toppings like crushed nuts or caramel drizzle to make this recipe uniquely yours.
Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Wow friends and family with a dessert that combines two classic favorites – chocolate chip cookies and ice cream – into one incredible frozen bar that everyone will love.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare these bars in advance and store in the freezer, giving you a ready-to-serve dessert for unexpected guests or sudden sweet cravings.

Cookie Base:

Butter: A rich and creamy ingredient that provides a smooth texture to the cookie dough.
Brown Sugar: Adds a deep caramel-like sweetness and moisture to the cookie layer.
Granulated Sugar: Provides additional sweetness and helps create a crisp texture.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with its warm and aromatic profile.
All-Purpose Flour: Creates the structure and base for the cookie dough.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.

Chocolate Components:

Mini Chocolate Chips, Milk Chocolate: Adds rich chocolate flavor and provides a delightful texture to the bars.

Ice Cream Layer:

Vanilla Ice Cream: Provides a creamy and cold contrast to the cookie dough layers.

Additional Components:

Parchment Paper: Helps with easy removal and prevents sticking in the pan.

Step 1: Whip Up Cookie Dough Base

Grab a mixing bowl and transform softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar into a silky smooth mixture.

Splash in vanilla extract for that irresistible aroma and mix until everything blends beautifully.

Step 2: Blend Dry Ingredients

Gradually introduce flour and salt to your creamy mixture, stirring until perfectly combined.

Gently fold in mini chocolate chips, creating delightful pockets of chocolatey goodness throughout the dough.

Step 3: Craft the Foundation

Line a loaf pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.

Carefully press half of the cookie dough into an even, smooth layer that covers the entire bottom of the pan.

Step 4: Layer with Creamy Goodness

Spread softened vanilla ice cream over the cookie dough base, using a spatula to create a perfectly smooth surface that covers every inch of the first layer.

Step 5: Create the Topping

Take the remaining cookie dough and delicately press it over the ice cream, ensuring complete coverage and a seamless finish.

Step 6: Chill and Set

Place the pan in the freezer and let it transform for at least 2 hours.

The bars need time to become wonderfully firm and fully integrated.

Step 7: Chocolate Dip Extravaganza

Lift the entire creation from the pan using parchment paper.

Slice into individual bars.

Dunk each bar into melted milk chocolate, creating a decadent coating that’ll make mouths water.

Step 8: Final Freeze and Garnish

Sprinkle the remaining mini chocolate chips over the chocolate-coated bars.

Return to the freezer for 15-20 minutes to let the chocolate set into a crisp, glossy shell.

Let vanilla ice cream sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to achieve the perfect spreadable consistency without melting completely.
Lightly grease your hands with cooking spray when pressing cookie dough layers to prevent sticking and create smooth, even surfaces.
Use a sharp, clean knife dipped in hot water for clean, smooth cuts through the frozen bars without cracking the chocolate coating.
Ensure melted chocolate is at the right temperature – not too hot or cold – for a smooth, even coating that adheres well to the frozen bars.
Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap after freezing to maintain freshness and prevent freezer burn for up to two weeks.

Fun Add-Ins for Your Next Batch of Ice Cream Bars

Gluten-Free Delight: Replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend, ensuring those with wheat sensitivities can enjoy this creamy treat.
Vegan Cool Down: Swap butter for coconut oil, use dairy-free vanilla ice cream, and choose vegan chocolate chips for a plant-based version.
Low-Sugar Option: Substitute granulated and brown sugars with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, reducing overall sugar content while maintaining sweet flavor.
Nutty Chocolate Crunch: Incorporate chopped almonds or pecans into the cookie dough layer for added texture and nutty richness.

How to Slice and Serve Ice Cream Bars Like a Pro

Sweet Picnic Treat: Pack these bars in individual wax paper wraps for a delightful outdoor dessert that stays cool and delicious.
Dessert Party Centerpiece: Arrange bars on a tiered platter with fresh strawberries and mint leaves for an elegant presentation that wows guests.
Midnight Snack Indulgence: Keep bars in the freezer for a spontaneous, rich chocolate-covered treat when late-night cravings strike.
Gifting Delights: Wrap bars in clear cellophane with a ribbon for a homemade gift that looks professional and tastes incredible.

Keeping Ice Cream Bars Fresh in the Freezer

Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. Keep in the freezer for up to 2 months to maintain optimal texture and flavor.
Remove bars from the freezer and let sit at room temperature for 3-5 minutes before enjoying. This prevents the chocolate coating from cracking and softens the ice cream slightly.
Store bars on a parchment-lined baking sheet with wax paper between layers to prevent sticking. Keeps bars fresh and easily accessible for quick treats.
Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water for clean, smooth cuts through the frozen bars. Wipe blade between each slice for perfectly presented dessert squares.

FAQs

Is this recipe suitable for kids to help make?

Yes! Kids can help mix ingredients, press dough into the pan, and sprinkle chocolate chips under adult supervision.

Can I use a different type of chocolate for coating?

Absolutely! You can use dark, white, or semi-sweet chocolate instead of milk chocolate to customize the flavor.

How do I prevent the cookie dough from crumbling when cutting?

Let the bars sit at room temperature for 2-3 minutes before cutting, and use a sharp knife wiped clean between each slice for smooth cuts.

What if I don't have a loaf pan?

You can use an 8×8-inch square baking pan as an alternative. Just adjust the layering and ensure even distribution of ingredients.

Nathaniel Brooks

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Farm-to-table cuisine, Seasonal recipe development, Culinary storytelling

Education

Ivy Tech Community College – Indianapolis, IN
Culinary Arts / Hospitality Administration & Events
Focused on hands-on training in classical and modern culinary techniques.

Nathaniel’s story starts in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, where farm stands, backyard gardens, and old family recipes shaped his love for real food. After graduating from Ivy Tech Community College in Indianapolis, he spent years working in farm-to-table kitchens, learning how to turn local, seasonal ingredients into something memorable.
Today, Nathaniel pours that same spirit into every single recipe on Aspiring Culinarian – recipes that feel real, comforting, and connected to the land. When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll find him foraging wild herbs, chasing sunsets with his camera, or writing about the flavors that shaped his roots.