Pin it Rich, chewy cookie dough balls infused with root beer flavor and studded with chunks of fudge provide a nostalgic no-bake treat that everyone will love.
I first tried making these for a weekend movie night with friends, and the flavor took everyone back to classic soda floats from childhood.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, 115 g, softened): Adds moisture and richness to the cookie dough.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup, 100 g, packed): Gives depth and chewiness.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup, 50 g): Provides sweetness and structure.
- Root beer syrup or concentrate (1/4 cup, 60 ml): Supplies the signature root beer flavor.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances the overall flavor.
- All-purpose flour, heat-treated (1 1/2 cups, 190 g): Ensures safety in a no-bake recipe; cool completely after heating.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Balances sweetness.
- Milk (2 tbsp): Helps bring the dough together.
- Semisweet chocolate (3 oz, 85 g, chopped): Used for fudge chunks inside each ball.
- Heavy cream (1 tbsp): Mixes with chocolate to form smooth fudge.
- Optional - Mini chocolate chips (1/2 cup, 90 g): For rolling and added texture.
- Optional - Crushed pretzels or sprinkles (1/2 cup, 50 g): Adds crunch or color to coating.
Instructions
- Prepare Fudge:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chopped chocolate and cream. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring, until melted and smooth. Let cool, then break into small chunks.
- Mix Butter and Sugars:
- Beat butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until creamy.
- Add Flavors:
- Mix in root beer syrup and vanilla extract until combined.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add heat-treated flour and salt, stirring until just incorporated.
- Finish Dough:
- Pour in milk and mix until the dough is smooth and comes together.
- Fold in Fudge:
- Stir in the cooled fudge chunks.
- Shape Dough Balls:
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls by hand.
- Coat (Optional):
- Roll balls in mini chocolate chips or crushed pretzels if desired.
- Chill:
- Chill balls for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Pin it My kids absolutely loved helping shape the dough balls and choosing their favorite coatings—it is a fun activity for the whole family.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, hand mixer or spoon, baking sheet for flour, microwave-safe bowl, and small scoop make preparation easy.
Allergen Information
Contains milk, wheat (gluten), and soy (in some chocolates), so always check ingredient labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Each ball contains about 120 calories, 6 g fat, 16 g carbohydrates, and 1 g protein.
Pin it Serve these cookie dough balls chilled and enjoy the fun root beer twist for all ages.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute root beer syrup?
Yes, use root beer extract for a stronger flavor, or mix soda syrup for similar sweetness.
- → Is heat-treating flour necessary?
Heat-treating flour ensures safety for eating raw dough, minimizing risks from bacteria.
- → How should I store these balls?
Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator; they stay fresh up to a week.
- → Can I dip the balls in chocolate?
Absolutely! Dipping creates a glossy exterior and enhances the truffle-like texture.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, all ingredients used are vegetarian-friendly.
- → What nuts may be present?
Some chocolates or toppings might contain tree nuts; always check labels for allergens.