Slice and Bake Cookies

Name: Slice and Bake Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 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)

Highlighted under: Baked Perfection

These Slice and Bake Cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and texture. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these delicious cookies that are easy to slice and bake whenever you’re ready for a sweet snack.

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2025-12-23T05:30:43.952Z

Slice and Bake Cookies are not just delicious; they are also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with your favorite mix-ins, like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits. Enjoy the ease of having cookie dough ready to go whenever the craving strikes!

Why You Will Love These Cookies
Quick and easy preparation with minimal cleanup
Customizable with your favorite flavors and add-ins
Perfectly portioned for sharing or freezing for later
Soft and chewy texture that everyone will love

The Perfect Cookie for Any Occasion

Slice and Bake Cookies are a versatile treat that fits seamlessly into any occasion. Whether you're hosting a holiday gathering, celebrating a birthday, or simply indulging in a weekend snack, these cookies are sure to impress. Their delightful balance of sweetness and chewiness makes them a favorite among both kids and adults alike. Plus, they can be made ahead of time and stored in the freezer, so you always have a batch ready when the craving strikes.

One of the best aspects of these cookies is their adaptability. You can easily modify the recipe to accommodate various tastes and dietary preferences. Add nuts for a crunchy texture, incorporate dried fruits for a chewy bite, or experiment with different types of chocolate. The possibilities are endless, making these cookies a canvas for your creativity.

Easy Preparation and Minimal Cleanup

The beauty of Slice and Bake Cookies lies in their simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can have a delicious batch of cookies ready to go. The recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for novice bakers and busy families alike. All you need is a mixing bowl, a whisk, and a baking sheet to get started.

Cleaning up after baking can often feel like a chore, but this recipe aims to minimize that hassle. Since the dough is rolled into logs and chilled before baking, there's less mess to deal with than traditional cookie dough methods. You can enjoy the baking process without the dread of an overwhelming cleanup afterward.

Storing and Freezing Your Cookies

Once your Slice and Bake Cookies are baked and cooled, you may find yourself with more cookies than you can eat in one sitting. The good news is that these cookies store exceptionally well! Simply place them in an airtight container at room temperature, and they will stay fresh for several days. Alternatively, you can freeze baked cookies for up to three months, allowing you to savor your favorite treats whenever you desire.

If you choose to freeze the dough logs instead, slice and bake them directly from the freezer whenever you're ready for a fresh batch. This means you can enjoy freshly baked cookies with minimal effort at any time of year. Just remember to adjust the baking time slightly, as frozen dough may take an extra minute or two to bake through.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 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)

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. If using chocolate chips, fold them in now.

Form and Chill the Dough

Divide the dough in half and roll each portion 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.

Slice and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dough logs from the refrigerator and slice them into 1/4 inch thick rounds. Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each cookie. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool on the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.

Pro Tips

For a fun twist, try adding lemon zest or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking.

Tips for Perfect Cookies

To achieve the perfect Slice and Bake Cookies, ensure that your butter is softened but not melted. Room temperature butter will blend more easily with the sugars, creating a light and airy texture. If you're short on time, you can cut the butter into small pieces and let it sit out for about 15 minutes to soften more quickly.

Another tip is to measure your flour correctly. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies, while too little can make them too gooey. Use the spoon-and-level method: spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for the best results.

Flavor Variations to Try

While the classic chocolate chip version is always a hit, don't hesitate to experiment with different flavor combinations. Consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract for a delightful twist, or substitute half of the all-purpose flour with cocoa powder for a chocolatey version. You can also fold in your favorite mix-ins, such as toffee bits, peanut butter chips, or even a blend of dried fruits and nuts.

For a seasonal touch, try incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, especially during the fall and winter months. These subtle additions can elevate your cookies and make them perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights at home.

Serving Suggestions

Slice and Bake Cookies are fantastic on their own, but they can also be paired with a variety of accompaniments. Consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert sundae, or enjoy them alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat. The combination of flavors and textures can create an indulgent experience that is hard to resist.

For a fun twist, try crumbling the cookies over yogurt or ice cream for added crunch and flavor. This can turn a simple dessert into something special, making your Slice and Bake Cookies not just a snack but a versatile addition to your dessert repertoire.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough logs for up to 3 months. Just slice and bake directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What other mix-ins can I use?

You can use nuts, dried fruits, or even different flavored chips like butterscotch or peanut butter.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store the baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

→ Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.