Slice and Bake Cookies
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Slice and Bake Cookies are a delightful treat that combines convenience with delicious flavor. Perfect for any occasion!
These Slice and Bake Cookies are perfect for those days when you want something sweet but don't have a lot of time. Just prepare the dough, chill it, and slice it whenever you're ready to bake!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation for cookie lovers
- Versatile recipe that allows for endless flavor combinations
- Perfect for making ahead and freezing for later enjoyment
The Joy of Baking Cookies
Baking cookies is a cherished tradition in many households, bringing families together to create delicious memories. Slice and Bake Cookies allow you to enjoy this experience without spending hours in the kitchen. With a simple dough that can be prepared ahead of time, you can have freshly baked cookies ready to go whenever you need a sweet treat.
The aroma of cookies baking in the oven is irresistible, and it transforms your home into a warm, inviting space. These cookies not only taste great but also fill your kitchen with the delightful scent of vanilla and sweet dough, creating an atmosphere that everyone will love.
Endless Flavor Possibilities
One of the best aspects of Slice and Bake Cookies is their versatility. The basic dough serves as a canvas for your creativity, allowing you to experiment with various mix-ins and flavors. From classic chocolate chips to dried fruits, nuts, or even spices, the options are limitless.
You can easily customize the dough by adding different extracts, such as almond or peppermint, to enhance the flavors. This flexibility makes these cookies suitable for any occasion, whether you're celebrating a holiday or simply enjoying a cozy afternoon treat with a cup of tea.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Slice and Bake Cookies are an excellent choice for meal prep enthusiasts. By preparing the dough in advance, you can save time and have fresh cookies on hand whenever the craving strikes. Simply slice and bake as needed, ensuring that you always have a delicious treat ready for unexpected guests or a quick afternoon snack.
Freezing the dough is a convenient way to enjoy homemade cookies without the hassle of mixing ingredients every time. Just pull out a log of dough, slice it up, and bake. This makes it easy to indulge in your favorite cookies without the commitment of baking an entire batch at once.
Ingredients
Basic Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Feel free to customize your cookie dough with nuts, dried fruits, or different types of chocolate!
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually blend this dry mixture into the creamed mixture. If using, fold in the chocolate chips.
Shape and Chill
Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
Slice and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Unwrap the chilled dough and slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place on ungreased baking sheets.
Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Enjoy your freshly baked cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage!
Tips for the Best Cookies
To achieve the best results with your Slice and Bake Cookies, make sure to properly measure your ingredients. Using a kitchen scale for accuracy can make a significant difference in the texture and taste of your cookies. Additionally, ensure your butter is at the right temperature—softened, but not melted—to create a perfectly creamy dough.
Chilling the dough is crucial for maintaining the shape of your cookies during baking. The longer you refrigerate the dough, the firmer it will become, leading to beautifully shaped cookies that hold their form. Don't skip this step for optimal results!
Storing Your Cookies
Once baked, store your Slice and Bake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh. They can typically last for about a week, though they may disappear much faster! To maintain their soft texture, consider adding a slice of bread to the container; it helps retain moisture.
If you've made a large batch, you can also freeze the baked cookies. Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to an airtight freezer bag. They can last for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy homemade cookies anytime you desire.
Serving Suggestions
Slice and Bake Cookies can be enjoyed on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with various accompaniments. Serve them warm, alongside a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent dessert, or enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
For a fun twist, consider sandwiching your favorite filling between two cookies. Whether it's frosting, jam, or peanut butter, this adds an exciting new dimension to your cookies and makes for a creative presentation at gatherings or parties.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes! You can freeze the cookie dough logs and slice them as needed.
→ What can I add to the cookie dough?
You can add nuts, dried fruits, or even different types of chocolate chips to customize your cookies.
→ How do I store leftover cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
→ Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a vegan alternative and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs.
Slice and Bake Cookies
Slice and Bake Cookies are a delightful treat that combines convenience with delicious flavor. Perfect for any occasion!
Created by: Rosie Mitchell
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
Basic Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 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 smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually blend this dry mixture into the creamed mixture. If using, fold in the chocolate chips.
Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Unwrap the chilled dough and slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place on ungreased baking sheets.
Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 2g