Slice and Bake Cookies
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Delight in these easy-to-make Slice and Bake Cookies, perfect for any occasion!
These Slice and Bake Cookies are a classic treat that everyone loves. With their buttery flavor and fun shapes, they are a hit at parties or as a sweet snack at home!
Why You'll Love These Cookies
- Quick and easy to prepare with minimal cleanup
- Versatile – customize with your favorite mix-ins!
- Perfectly sweet and buttery, just like a classic cookie
Perfect for Any Occasion
Slice and Bake Cookies are an ideal treat for any gathering, be it a birthday party, holiday celebration, or just a cozy get-together with friends. Their delightful combination of buttery goodness and sweet flavors makes them a crowd-pleaser. Plus, you can prepare the dough ahead of time, allowing you to whip up fresh cookies whenever the craving strikes.
Whether you’re hosting a large event or enjoying a quiet night in, these cookies fit seamlessly into your plans. They can be enjoyed warm from the oven or stored for later, making them a versatile option for busy bakers. You can even package them as thoughtful gifts for loved ones, adding a personal touch to your treats.
Endless Customization Options
One of the best features of Slice and Bake Cookies is their versatility. The base dough is a blank canvas, allowing you to unleash your creativity with various mix-ins. Chocolate chips are a classic choice, but feel free to experiment with nuts, dried fruits, or even sprinkles for a colorful twist.
If you're in the mood for something seasonal, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor. You can also substitute some of the all-purpose flour with cocoa powder to create a rich chocolate version of these delightful cookies. The possibilities are endless, making every batch uniquely yours!
Making Baking a Breeze
Baking can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially for those new to the kitchen. However, Slice and Bake Cookies simplify the process significantly. With only a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a delicious batch of cookies ready in no time. The minimal cleanup is an added bonus, making this recipe perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Moreover, the cookie logs can be stored in the freezer, allowing you to enjoy freshly baked cookies on demand. Just slice and bake as needed! This makes it easier to cater to unexpected guests or satisfy your sweet tooth without the hassle of preparing the dough from scratch.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to get started:
Cookie Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Once you have all the ingredients, you're ready to start baking!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your cookies:
Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. If desired, fold in the chocolate chips.
Shape and Chill
Divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll each portion into a log shape (about 2 inches in diameter) and wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
Slice and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the logs from the refrigerator and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your freshly baked cookies!
Tips for Perfect Cookies
To ensure your Slice and Bake Cookies turn out perfectly, measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help achieve consistent results, especially for flour. Additionally, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature, as this will contribute to a better texture and flavor in your cookies.
Another tip is to allow the dough to chill adequately before slicing. A well-chilled dough holds its shape better during baking and results in cookies that are evenly baked, with a nice crisp edge and a soft center. If you’re in a hurry, you can place the logs in the freezer for about 20-30 minutes to speed up the chilling process.
Storing Your Cookies
Once baked, these cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh for a longer period, consider freezing them. Layer the cookies between parchment paper in an airtight container or a resealable bag, and they can last for several months in the freezer.
For an even fresher taste, you might consider freezing the unbaked cookie logs. When you’re ready for a treat, simply slice and bake directly from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. This ensures you always have homemade cookies ready to go!
Serving Suggestions
Slice and Bake Cookies are delightful on their own, but they can also be elevated with some simple serving suggestions. Pair them with a glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert experience. You can even sandwich two cookies with a layer of your favorite frosting for an indulgent treat.
For a festive touch, dust the cookies with powdered sugar or drizzle them with melted chocolate after baking. Adding some colorful sprinkles can also make them visually appealing, perfect for special occasions or celebrations. These simple enhancements can transform your cookies into a show-stopping dessert!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the logs of dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the refrigerator before slicing and baking.
→ What can I use instead of butter?
You can use margarine or a vegan butter substitute for a dairy-free option.
→ How can I make these cookies more festive?
Add colorful sprinkles or use cookie cutters to shape the cookies before baking!
→ What other mix-ins can I use?
Feel free to experiment with nuts, dried fruits, or various types of chocolate chips.
Slice and Bake Cookies
Delight in these easy-to-make Slice and Bake Cookies, perfect for any occasion!
Created by: Rowan Tate
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
Cookie Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. If desired, fold in the chocolate chips.
Divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll each portion into a log shape (about 2 inches in diameter) and wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the logs from the refrigerator and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly 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: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 19g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 2g