Slice and Bake Cookies
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Slice and Bake Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the ease of preparation with the joy of fresh-baked cookies. Perfect for any occasion!
These Slice and Bake Cookies are not only simple to make, but they also provide a fun way to prepare cookie dough in advance. Just slice and bake whenever you're in the mood for a sweet treat!
Why You'll Love These Cookies
- Easy to prepare and store for later use
- Perfectly crisp edges with a soft center
- Customizable with your favorite mix-ins
- Great for sharing at gatherings or parties
The Joy of Slice and Bake Cookies
Slice and Bake Cookies are the perfect solution for those who love the idea of homemade cookies but may not have the time to prepare them from scratch every time. With a simple dough that can be made in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer, you can enjoy fresh-baked cookies whenever the craving strikes. Just slice, bake, and indulge!
These cookies also offer a wonderful opportunity to get creative in the kitchen. Whether you prefer classic chocolate chip, vibrant dried fruits, or crunchy nuts, the customization options are endless. You can easily mix in your favorite ingredients to craft a cookie that suits your taste. Each batch can be a unique creation!
Additionally, Slice and Bake Cookies are an excellent choice for gatherings and parties. Their uniform shape and delightful flavors make them easy to serve and share. Plus, preparing the dough ahead of time allows you to enjoy your time with guests instead of being stuck in the kitchen.
Tips for Perfect Cookies
To achieve the best texture in your cookies, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help ensure precision, especially for flour, as too much can lead to dry cookies. Always spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off for the most accurate measurement.
Chilling the dough is a crucial step that helps the cookies hold their shape while baking. It also enhances the flavor as the ingredients meld together. If you’re in a hurry, you can slice and bake the cookies straight away, but the texture may not be as desirable.
Lastly, keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Ovens can vary significantly in temperature, so start checking them a minute or two before the suggested baking time. You want the edges to be golden and the centers to look slightly underbaked, as they will continue to firm up while cooling.
Storing and Freezing Your Cookies
Slice and Bake Cookies are incredibly convenient for meal prep or making ahead of time. Once baked, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. They freeze well and can last for several months when properly wrapped.
To freeze unbaked dough, simply wrap the logs tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, you can take out a log and let it thaw in the fridge overnight before slicing and baking. This ensures you have fresh cookies available at a moment’s notice.
When storing baked cookies, ensure they are completely cool before placing them in a container. Adding a slice of bread to the container can help keep them soft and fresh. If you prefer crisp cookies, store them in a separate container to maintain their texture.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make your Slice and Bake Cookies:
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're set to start making the cookie dough!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Slice and Bake Cookies:
Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips if using.
Shape and Chill
- Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each into a log about 2 inches in diameter.
- Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
Bake the Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Unwrap the dough logs and slice them into 1/2 inch thick rounds.
- Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
After baking, enjoy your delicious cookies fresh out of the oven!
Customization Ideas
One of the best aspects of Slice and Bake Cookies is their versatility. You can easily tailor the dough to suit your preferences or dietary needs. For a classic version, stick with chocolate chips, but for something unique, consider adding crushed candy canes for a festive touch or switching out chocolate chips for white chocolate or butterscotch chips.
For a healthier twist, try incorporating oats, coconut flakes, or even protein powder into the dough. Dried fruits like cranberries or apricots can add a chewy texture and a burst of flavor. The options are really limitless, allowing you to create a cookie that is truly your own.
Serving Suggestions
Slice and Bake Cookies are delightful on their own, but they can also be elevated with simple serving suggestions. Pair them with a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent dessert or crumble them over yogurt for a tasty breakfast treat. A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce can add a touch of elegance when serving at parties.
For a special occasion, consider making a cookie platter with a variety of flavors. This not only makes for a beautiful presentation but also caters to different taste preferences. Add some fresh fruit or nuts to the platter for a colorful and inviting display.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the wrapped dough logs for up to 3 months. Just slice and bake directly from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
→ What other mix-ins can I use?
You can use nuts, dried fruits, or even spices like cinnamon for a flavor twist.
→ How do I store the baked cookies?
Store the baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
→ Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Slice and Bake Cookies
Slice and Bake Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the ease of preparation with the joy of fresh-baked cookies. Perfect for any occasion!
Created by: Jasmine Porter
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)
How-To Steps
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips if using.
- Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each into a log about 2 inches in diameter.
- Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Unwrap the dough logs and slice them into 1/2 inch thick rounds.
- Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 16g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 1g