Cookies and Cream Fudge Bars Easy No-Bake Delight

If you crave a sweet treat that’s easy to make and oh-so-delicious, you’ll love these Cookies and Cream Fudge Bars. This no-bake delight takes just a few simple ingredients and comes together quickly. With a creamy texture and rich flavor, they’re perfect for any occasion. Follow my step-by-step guide to whip up your own batch and impress friends and family with this tasty dessert!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 cup cookie crumbs (made from chocolate sandwich cookies)
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 ½ cups white chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ½ cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (for topping)
– ¼ cup mini marshmallows (optional, for added texture)
To make these fudge bars, gather your ingredients first. You need cookie crumbs made from chocolate sandwich cookies. You can crush these cookies in a bag or use a food processor. Creamy peanut butter adds richness. Sweetened condensed milk gives the fudge a sweet touch. White chocolate chips bring a creamy texture. Don’t forget the vanilla extract for flavor.
For toppings, use crushed chocolate sandwich cookies. If you like, add mini marshmallows for extra fun. These simple ingredients come together to create a treat that is both easy and delicious. Enjoy making these fudge bars!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Baking Dish
First, grab your 8×8 inch baking dish. Line it with parchment paper. Leave some paper hanging over the sides. This makes it easy to lift the fudge out later. You want to be able to remove it without mess.
Mixing and Combining Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of cookie crumbs with 1 cup of creamy peanut butter. Mix them well until you have a smooth, uniform blend. Now, add in 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk. Stir continuously until everything blends nicely.
Next, let’s melt 1 ½ cups of white chocolate chips. Place them in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave them for 30 seconds at a time, stirring in between. Keep doing this until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
Pour the melted white chocolate into the cookie mixture. Don’t forget to add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir everything together until it is evenly mixed.
Final Assembly and Setting
Now, if you want extra fun, fold in ¼ cup of mini marshmallows and ½ cup of crushed chocolate sandwich cookies. Be gentle; you don’t want to break them too much.
Transfer the fudge mixture into your lined baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. For a nice finish, sprinkle more crushed cookies on top. Press them in lightly so they stick.
Place the dish in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 3 hours. You want it to be firm to the touch. Once it is set, use the parchment paper to lift the fudge out. Cut it into 16 bars for serving. Enjoy your sweet treat!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get the best fudge bars, focus on the smoothness of the mixture. Start with well-blended cookie crumbs and peanut butter. Mix until the texture is uniform. When you add sweetened condensed milk, stir until it is fully combined. This step is key for a creamy bar.
Chilling time is also very important. Place your dish in the refrigerator for at least three hours. This helps the fudge set properly. If you skip this step, your bars may not hold together well. Trust me, patience pays off here!
Storage Tips
To keep your fudge bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out. You can also layer them with parchment paper. It stops them from sticking together.
For the best results, use a container that fits your fudge tightly. This keeps air out and maintains their soft texture. If you want to freeze them, wrap each bar in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Serving Suggestions
When serving, make your fudge bars look great! Arrange them on a pretty platter. Add whole chocolate sandwich cookies for a fun touch. For a sweet finish, drizzle melted white chocolate over the top.
Pair these fudge bars with cold milk or coffee. The rich flavors work well with both drinks. You can even serve them at parties or gatherings. Everyone will love the tasty treat!
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can make these fudge bars even better! Try adding nuts like walnuts or pecans. They add a nice crunch and flavor. You can also use different types of chocolate. Dark chocolate chips offer a rich taste, while milk chocolate is sweeter. You can switch up the cookies for the crust too. Use mint cookies for a fresh twist or vanilla cookies for a lighter base. Each change gives a new and exciting flavor!
Dietary Modifications
If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies. This simple swap keeps the taste while making it safe for those with gluten allergies. For nut allergies, use sun butter instead of peanut butter. It has a similar smoothness and works well in this recipe. You can also skip the nuts and still enjoy the fudge bars. These changes let everyone enjoy the treat!
Nutritional Information
Caloric Breakdown
Each serving of these cookies and cream fudge bars has about 200 calories. This number can vary based on exact ingredients used. Here are some key nutritional facts:
– Sugar: Approximately 18 grams
– Fat: Roughly 10 grams
– Protein: About 4 grams
These bars pack a sweet punch, thanks to the chocolate cookies and creamy peanut butter.
Health Considerations
When enjoying these fudge bars, it’s wise to think about portion control. One bar is enough to satisfy your sweet tooth without overindulging.
To make your dessert more balanced, consider adding fruits or nuts. Fresh berries or sliced bananas can add freshness. Nuts will give a nice crunch and some healthy fats.
FAQs
How do I know when the fudge is set?
You will know the fudge is set when it feels firm to the touch. After chilling for at least 3 hours, check the edges first. If they are no longer sticky, that’s a good sign. You can also gently press the center with your finger. If it holds its shape, it’s ready to cut.
Can I make these fudge bars in advance?
Yes, you can make these fudge bars in advance. They store well in the fridge for up to a week. To keep them fresh, place them in an airtight container. You can also freeze them for up to two months. Just wrap each bar in plastic wrap before freezing. Thaw them in the fridge when you want to enjoy them.
Where can I buy ready-made cookies and cream fudge bars?
You can find ready-made cookies and cream fudge bars at grocery stores and online. Brands like Trader Joe’s and Target often carry these treats. Check the dessert aisle or the freezer section. Local bakeries may also offer fresh options. Always look for a store that sells high-quality ingredients.
This blog post covers everything you need for delicious fudge bars. We explored key ingredients, like cookie crumbs and creamy peanut butter, and detailed each baking step. I shared tips for perfect texture and storage methods to keep your fudge fresh. You also learned about fun flavor variations and nutritional insights.
Now, enjoy making these tasty treats. They are easy, fun, and always a hit! Happy baking!
