Cookie Bar Recipes That Make Dessert Easy

Cookie bars are a simple way to enjoy all the flavor of cookies without the extra steps. Just mix, bake, and slice—no need to scoop out individual portions. They’re great for saving time and feeding a crowd.

There’s a wide range of flavors to try, from classic chocolate chip to rich peanut butter and fruity layers. Some are soft and chewy, while others have a crisp edge or gooey center. You can keep things basic or mix in nuts, candy, or swirls of caramel.

Perfect for bake sales, lunchboxes, or weeknight treats, cookie bars are an easy win. They hold up well, travel easily, and usually require just one pan. These recipes offer a fun and stress-free way to make dessert.

Peanut Butter Blossom Bars

These bars bring all the nostalgic charm of classic cookies in an easy-to-slice format. With a soft, chewy peanut butter base and chocolate centers, they’re perfect for quick treats or lunchbox surprises. You can make a full batch in one pan—great for sharing or freezing for later.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Blossom Bars

Old-Fashioned Pecan Cake Bars

Rich, nutty, and perfectly sweetened, these bars are inspired by classic Southern-style bakes. They’ve got a soft, almost cake-like texture that pairs beautifully with the crunch of toasted pecans. Great with coffee or as a cozy afternoon snack.
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Pecan Cake Bars

Quick and Easy Sugar Cookie Bars

No rolling pins or cookie cutters needed here—just spread the dough and bake. These bars turn the flavor of frosted sugar cookies into a convenient slab that’s perfect for decorating. Great for parties or casual snacking.
Get the Recipe: Quick and Easy Sugar Cookie Bars

Chewy Vegan Granola Bars

Naturally sweetened and packed with oats, seeds, and dried fruit, these bars are all about keeping things wholesome. They hold together well and have a nice chewy bite. Ideal for breakfast on the go or mid-morning energy boosts.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Vegan Granola Bars

Gingerbread Bars

These spiced bars bring warmth and coziness with every bite. Molasses and ginger give them that classic holiday flavor, but they’re just as welcome year-round. They’re soft, tender, and even better with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Get the Recipe: Gingerbread Bars

Gluten Free Homemade Protein Bars Cherry Almond

A great alternative to store-bought options, these bars combine nutty almond flavors with tart cherries for a balanced snack. They’re protein-packed and gluten-free, making them an easy grab-and-go option. Ideal for post-workout or afternoon fuel.
Get the Recipe: Gluten Free Homemade Protein Bars Cherry Almond

Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars

Tart rhubarb and buttery oat layers come together for a dessert that’s both rustic and fresh. The crumb topping adds texture without overpowering the fruit. Perfect for spring and early summer when rhubarb is in season.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars

Reese’s Peanut Butter Chocolate Crispy Bars

With layers of peanut butter, chocolate, and crispy cereal, these no-bake bars hit that sweet-salty-crunchy combo just right. They’re quick to whip up and don’t require turning on the oven. A solid choice for easy snacking or potluck treats.
Get the Recipe: Reese’s Peanut Butter Chocolate Crispy Bars

Pecan Pie bars

All the gooey richness of pecan pie without the hassle of a crust. These bars have a shortbread base and a golden, nut-filled topping. Great for holidays or anytime you want something a little indulgent.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie bars

Halloween Sugar Cookie Bars

Festive, colorful, and easy to make—these bars are a fun way to get in the Halloween spirit. They’re soft, sweet, and perfect for decorating with themed sprinkles or colored frosting. A hit with kids and grown-ups alike.
Get the Recipe: Halloween Sugar Cookie Bars

Blueberry Oatmeal Bars

Sweet-tart blueberries shine in these soft, crumbly oat bars. They double as breakfast or dessert and hold up well for meal prep. Great when fresh blueberries are in season—or use frozen anytime.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Oatmeal Bars

Easy Lemon Bars

These bring just the right balance of sweet and tart with a buttery shortbread crust. The lemon layer is smooth and bright without being overpowering. Simple to make, easy to love.
Get the Recipe: Easy Lemon Bars

Strawberry Rhubarb Bars

This classic flavor pairing works beautifully in bar form, where the fruit filling bubbles up between oat layers. They’re not too sweet and perfect for spring gatherings. A scoop of ice cream on top doesn’t hurt.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Rhubarb Bars

Cheesecake Bars

Creamy, smooth, and just the right size—these bars offer the texture of traditional cheesecake with a fraction of the effort. The graham cracker base keeps things classic. Chill them well for clean slices.
Get the Recipe: Cheesecake Bars

Orange Cinnamon Millionaire Bars

A citrusy spin on a rich favorite, these bars blend orange zest, spiced caramel, and chocolate in thick, indulgent layers. The cinnamon adds depth without overpowering. Best enjoyed in small squares—one goes a long way.
Get the Recipe: Orange Cinnamon Millionaire Bars

Cookie dough protein bar

This one hits the mark if you’re craving cookie dough but want something more nutritious. It’s soft, slightly sweet, and has just enough chocolate chips to keep it interesting. Great for busy mornings or post-gym snacks.
Get the Recipe: Cookie dough protein bar

Raspberry Bars

Buttery layers sandwich a bright raspberry filling that’s not too sweet. These bars slice cleanly and are easy to pack for lunchboxes or picnics. A favorite for spring and summer baking.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Bars

Honey Oatmeal Bars

Naturally sweetened with honey and packed with oats, these bars are hearty without being heavy. You can add nuts or dried fruit to change things up. They’re a nice balance between wholesome and snackable.
Get the Recipe: Honey Oatmeal Bars

Cherry Bars a GBBO Traybake

Inspired by classic traybakes, these cherry bars are simple, moist, and full of old-school charm. Glacé cherries add color and sweetness without overpowering the sponge. Serve them with tea for a touch of British flair.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Bars a GBBO Traybake

Chocolate Peanut Butter Oat Bars

Three pantry staples—oats, peanut butter, and chocolate—come together in these no-bake bars. They’re chewy, rich, and quick to make, with no fuss. A solid snack for when you need something a little indulgent.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Peanut Butter Oat Bars

Old Fashioned Lemon Bars

A traditional favorite with a crisp shortbread crust and smooth lemon topping. These bars are tangy, firm, and dusted with just enough powdered sugar. They’re just as welcome at a bake sale as on a holiday tray.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Lemon Bars