I’d like to propose a hypothesis: many in my generation share a vivid memory of climbing into the backseat of a minivan, casually discarding a brightly colored backpack, and perhaps even kicking off a pair of Velcro shoes. Before the engine even roars to life, a ravenous hunger sets in — one that can only be satisfied by a small, chocolatey granola bar. Whether it was a minivan, a bus, or what felt like an endless walk home, that after-school moment seemed to ignite one’s metabolism like no other. Today, the granola bar aisle in the grocery store offers countless options to satisfy those cravings.
However, I’d like to introduce another cherished childhood memory: baking cookies. Sneaking spoonfuls (or sticky handfuls) of chocolate chip cookie dough from the mixing bowl, licking the spoon, and watching the dough spread, bubble, and mound as it bakes in the oven is a true delight. The end result is a delicious pile of freshly-baked cookies, with the sweet scent wafting through the room.
This brings me to my third point: Whoa Dough cookie dough bars. Whoa Dough offers a way to reconnect with those simpler times, providing a sweet, sticky treat that satisfies hunger without worrying about dietary restrictions, undesirable ingredients, or the mess of baking.
Whoa Dough is not just another granola bar that adds to your decision anxiety. Instead, it offers something unique. Unlike protein-packed bars with long ingredient lists, Whoa Dough targets a broad audience with its snackable treats made exclusively from chickpea flour — a high-protein, gluten-free alternative to regular flour. They are 100% vegan, which is a personal plus for me as a lifelong vegetarian, given the challenge of identifying hidden animal by-products. Most of their flavors are nut-free, increasing accessibility for consumers with serious nut allergies.
Whoa Dough cookie dough bars come in eight flavors: Oatmeal Cookie, Chocolate Chip, Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip, Sprinkle Sugar Cookie, Brownie Batter, Peanut Butter, Sugar Cookie, and Oatmeal Chocolate Chip. I’ve tried all of them, and while Oatmeal Cookie and Brownie Batter are strong contenders, nothing beats the classic Chocolate Chip cookie dough. Whoa Dough also offers two flavors of ready-to-bake cookie dough: Sugar Cookie and Chocolate Chip. The bars are chewy and melt in your mouth, minus the mess and cleanup. They are perfect for lunch boxes, easy to toss into your purse, and handy enough to keep in your pocket.
Founded by the father of two boys with gluten intolerance, Whoa Dough’s ethos is about not having to compromise. You can have your (gluten-free) cookie dough bar and eat it too. While I am not gluten-intolerant myself, I’ve noticed several friends recently diagnosed with Celiac disease. As I prepare to move in with one of these friends, we’ve discussed how to maintain a safe environment while sharing a kitchen with diverse dietary needs. These conversations have deepened my understanding of the importance of allergy-sensitive options and sanitary kitchen practices. Thanks to Whoa Dough’s ready-to-bake cookie dough, I can now plan a baking night without any concerns for my friend.
Look out for Whoa Dough on select American Airlines flights in the future, and check their store locator on their website. You can order boxes and variety packs online, but I plan to get my future fix at Upstate Stock in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.
