Red Velvet Cookie Dough Bars

Introduction

Red Velvet Cookie Dough Bars are a fun, no-bake dessert that combines the rich flavor of red velvet cake with the indulgence of cookie dough. These bars are creamy, sweet, and full of chocolate chips, making them the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a dessert for a special event, or simply craving a sweet snack, these bars are sure to satisfy.

I first made these when I was looking for something quick, delicious, and unique, and they became an instant favorite. The vibrant red color and smooth, chewy texture make them not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. They’re perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to more festive celebrations.

What’s great about these Red Velvet Cookie Dough Bars is that they’re so easy to prepare. No baking required, just mix the ingredients, chill, and enjoy. You can even customize them by adding white chocolate chips, nuts, or sprinkles for extra flavor and fun. Whether you’re making them for a special event or just because, these bars are sure to be a hit!

Perfect for:

• Holiday baking
• Birthdays and special occasions
• Dessert trays
• Red velvet lovers
• Gift-giving

Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Cookie Dough Bars

Here’s why this recipe will become your go-to dessert:

• Rich Red Velvet Flavor: These bars are bursting with the iconic, sweet taste of red velvet cake with a soft, cookie dough texture.
• No-Bake Convenience: These bars are easy to make and don’t require baking, which makes them a quick and effortless treat.
• Perfectly Sweet: With the right balance of sweetness and vanilla flavor, these bars are satisfyingly indulgent without being overwhelming.
• Fun to Make and Share: Their vibrant red color makes these bars visually appealing, and the easy-to-cut squares make them perfect for sharing at parties or gatherings.
• Customizable Add-Ins: Feel free to add sprinkles, crushed cookies, or extra chocolate chips for a personal twist.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: None (no-bake)
• Servings: 16 bars
• Calories per serving: Approximately 220-250 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 3g, Carbs: 32g, Fat: 10g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make this recipe:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons milk
• ¼ cup red velvet cake mix (for flavor and color)
• ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon white chocolate chips (optional for drizzle)

Ingredient Highlights

• Red Velvet Cake Mix: Adds the signature red velvet flavor and color to the bars, making them extra rich and visually striking.
• Butter: Provides the creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture that is characteristic of cookie dough.
• Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips add the perfect amount of sweetness and contrast to the rich, red velvet dough.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor and gives the bars a more rounded, comforting taste.
• Milk: Helps bring the dough together, making it smooth and spreadable.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make this recipe:

Prepare the Dough:

1. Prepare a Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal of the bars.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar with an electric mixer until creamy and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the Wet Ingredients: Mix in the vanilla extract and milk until fully combined.
4. Add the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour, red velvet cake mix, and salt. Mix until fully combined, creating a thick dough. You may need to stir it by hand as it gets thicker.
5. Fold in the Chocolate Chips: Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Assemble and Chill:

6. Press the Dough into the Pan: Transfer the dough into the prepared baking dish and press it down evenly to fill the pan.
7. Chill: Refrigerate the dough for about 1 hour to firm up, making it easier to slice.
8. Drizzle White Chocolate (Optional): If desired, melt the white chocolate chips and drizzle over the chilled dough for an extra touch of sweetness and decoration.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cookie Dough Bars

Red Velvet Cookie Dough Bars can be served in many ways:

• As a Snack: Cut into squares and serve them as an afternoon snack or dessert.
• For Parties and Gatherings: These bars are easy to slice into bite-sized pieces, making them perfect for serving at parties or family gatherings.
• Gift-Giving: Wrap these bars in cellophane or gift boxes for a unique homemade treat.
• With a Beverage: Pair with a glass of milk or a hot beverage like coffee or tea for a comforting treat.

Additional Tips for Red Velvet Cookie Dough Bars

Here are some tips to ensure this recipe Dough Bars are perfect every time:

• Use Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best texture when creaming it with sugar.
• Don’t Skip the Refrigeration: Chilling the dough is important for firming up the bars and making them easier to cut into neat squares.
• Customize the Mix-ins: If you like, add extra chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or colorful sprinkles for a fun twist.
• Avoid Overmixing: Be sure to mix the dough just until the ingredients are combined to keep the texture soft and chewy.
• Use the Right Size Pan: An 8×8-inch pan ensures the bars will be thick and soft. If using a larger pan, you may need to adjust the baking time or dough amount.

Recipe Variations for Red Velvet Cookie Dough Bars

Here are some variations you can try for this recipe:

• White Chocolate and Red Velvet Bars: Use white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a smoother, creamier flavor.
• Red Velvet Oreo Cookie Dough Bars: Incorporate chopped Oreos into the dough for added crunch and a cookies-and-cream twist.
• Nutty Red Velvet Cookie Dough Bars: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for extra texture.
• Red Velvet Cookie Dough Brownies: Layer the cookie dough on top of a brownie base for a decadent, layered dessert.
• Coconut Red Velvet Bars: Fold in shredded coconut for a tropical touch that complements the rich red velvet flavor.
• Dark Chocolate Red Velvet Cookie Dough Bars: Use dark chocolate chips for a more intense chocolate flavor.
• Red Velvet and Cream Cheese Bars: Top the dough with a cream cheese swirl for a tangy twist on the classic red velvet combination.
• Lemon Red Velvet Cookie Dough Bars: Add a touch of lemon zest to the dough for a citrusy contrast to the sweetness of the red velvet.
• Mint Red Velvet Cookie Dough Bars: Mix in peppermint extract and mini chocolate chips for a refreshing mint-chocolate flavor.
• Vegan Red Velvet Cookie Dough Bars: Use dairy-free butter and a flax egg to make these bars vegan-friendly.

Freezing and Storage for Red Velvet Cookie Dough Bars

• Freezing: These bars freeze well! Cut them into squares and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Storage: Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days for the best texture.

Special Equipment for Red Velvet Cookie Dough Bars

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing this recipe easier:

• Electric Mixer: A hand or stand mixer will help you cream the butter and sugar to the perfect consistency.
• Baking Pan: An 8×8-inch square pan ensures the bars are thick and chewy.
• Parchment Paper: Use parchment paper to easily lift the bars out of the pan for cutting.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure precise measurements for the best results.
• Refrigerator or Freezer: Chill the dough in the refrigerator for easier slicing or freeze it for longer storage.

Frequently Asked Questions for Red Velvet Cookie Dough Bars

1. Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
   Yes! You can substitute the red velvet cake mix with other flavors like chocolate or vanilla for a different taste.
2. Can I make these bars without chocolate chips?
   Yes, you can omit the chocolate chips or use other mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit.
3. Can I freeze the dough?
   Yes, you can freeze the dough before chilling for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before pressing it into the pan and chilling.
4. How do I know when the bars are ready to serve?
   The bars should be firm after chilling and easy to cut into neat squares. If the dough feels too soft, return it to the fridge to chill longer.
5. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
   Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to replace the all-purpose flour in this recipe.

Print

Conclusion

Red Velvet Cookie Dough Bars offer a rich, sweet, and easy-to-make dessert that everyone will love. Their vibrant color and indulgent flavor make them the perfect treat for any occasion. With their simple no-bake preparation and endless customization possibilities, these bars are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just craving something sweet, these Red Velvet Cookie Dough Bars are the ideal dessert.

This recipe is as fun to make as it is delicious, making it perfect for everything from family nights to festive gatherings. Whether you’re enjoying them as a special treat or sharing them with friends, these bars are sure to impress.

I’d love to see how your Red Velvet Cookie Dough Bars turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!