Slice and Bake Cookies Recipe
Introduction
Slice and bake cookies are a classic treat that combines simplicity with delicious results. This easy method lets you prepare the dough ahead of time, slice it into perfect rounds, and bake fresh cookies whenever you desire.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Step 2: Gradually add the flour, mixing just until the dough comes together. Avoid over-mixing to keep cookies tender.
- Step 3: Shape the dough into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Step 4: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 5: Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place the rounds on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Step 6: Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Variations
- For a chocolate twist, add 1/2 cup cocoa powder to the flour and reduce flour by the same amount.
- Mix in 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips before chilling the dough for added texture and flavor.
- Make sure the dough is well chilled; this helps keep the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
Storage
Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Unbaked dough logs can be wrapped and refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat cookies briefly in a warm oven to regain freshness if desired.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, but reduce or omit any added salt in the recipe to avoid overly salty cookies.
How thick should I slice the dough?
Slicing the dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds ensures even baking and a nice texture; thinner slices may burn, and thicker slices may remain doughy in the center.
PrintSlice and Bake Cookies Recipe
These classic Slice and Bake Cookies are easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. The dough is chilled to firm up, then sliced into rounds and baked until golden brown, resulting in buttery, sweet, and crisp cookies with a tender inside.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 ½ cups (312g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and mix until the dough forms a uniform, soft consistency.
- Chill the dough: Shape the dough into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm enough to slice easily.
- Slice the dough: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dough from the refrigerator and unwrap. Using a sharp knife, slice the dough into ¼-inch thick rounds carefully to maintain the shape.
- Bake the cookies: Place the cookie slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious, buttery slice and bake cookies!
Notes
- Make sure the butter is softened but not melted for the best texture.
- Chilling the dough is essential to maintain slice shapes and prevent spreading during baking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Optionally, add chocolate chips, nuts, or sprinkles to the dough for variety.
Keywords: slice and bake cookies, easy cookie recipe, classic cookies, butter cookies, vanilla cookies
