There’s something truly special about the ritual of baking, especially when it comes to making Slice and Bake Cookies. Picture this: it’s a quiet afternoon, and I’m in the kitchen, the scent of buttery sweetness enveloping the air as I cream together the ingredients. With each slice of the chilled dough, I feel like a magician, transforming simple ingredients into colorful, bite-sized delights that beckon for a cup of tea or a glass of milk.
This recipe became a go-to for me during busy weeks when a quick treat was a must. It’s so wonderfully easy—mix, chill, slice, and bake! No fuss, just pure cookie joy. Not to mention, the vibrant Nonpareils add that fun twist which always brightens up my cookie platter. Whether for a last-minute gathering or a cozy night at home, these cookies have become a staple that elevates both the everyday and the special occasions. Ready to bring a little sweetness into your life? Let’s dive into making these delightful Slice and Bake Cookies!
Why You'll Love This Slice and Bake Cookies
- You’ll love this recipe for its incredible ease, allowing you to whip up delicious cookies without any complicated steps.
- The delightful combination of flavors from the vanilla and almond extracts will leave your taste buds dancing.
- These cookies are wonderfully versatile, making them perfect for any occasion, whether a festive gathering or a simple afternoon snack.
- Plus, their eye-catching appearance with colorful Nonpareils makes them an instant crowd-pleaser that will impress family and friends.
Slice and Bake Cookies Ingredients
• Get ready to create a cookie masterpiece!
For the Dough
• 1 cup unsalted butter – This key ingredient brings the rich flavor that makes cookies irresistible.
• 0.5 cup sugar – Adds sweetness, balancing the richness of the butter.
• 0.25 cup light brown sugar – Offers a hint of caramel flavor for added depth.
• 1 large egg yolk – Helps bind the dough while giving it a lovely richness.
• 0.5 teaspoon salt – A pinch enhances all of the flavors in your cookies.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A classic flavor that sweetly complements the other ingredients.
• 0.5 teaspoon almond extract – Optional but adds a delightful nutty essence to the cookies.
• 2.25 cups all-purpose flour – The foundation of your Slice and Bake Cookies, providing structure.
For Topping (Optional)
• 2.5 tablespoons colorful Nonpareils – These sprinkles not only make your cookies visually enticing but also add a fun crunch!
How to Make Slice and Bake Cookies
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Cream Together: In a mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, sugar, and light brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes and is key for those airy cookies you crave!
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Mix Wet Ingredients: Add in the egg yolk, salt, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Mix well until thoroughly combined and creamy, creating a rich and flavorful base for your cookies.
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Incorporate Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the mixture. Stir until just combined, ensuring you don’t overmix; this will keep your cookies tender and delightful.
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Shape into Logs: Divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll each portion into a log, about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap, as this helps them keep their shape during chilling.
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Chill the Dough: Place the wrapped dough logs in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial for achieving those perfectly sliced cookies!
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Preheat Oven: When the hour is almost up, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so that it’s ready when you’re done with the dough.
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Slice the Cookies: Remove the chilled logs from the refrigerator. Slice them into 1/4 inch thick rounds using a sharp knife, revealing the colorful dough inside.
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Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the cookie slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them apart to allow for spreading during baking.
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Add a Pop of Color: Optional: Before baking, sprinkle colorful Nonpareils over the tops of the cookie slices for that festive touch!
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Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they’re lightly golden around the edges. The cookies should have a slight softness in the center when they come out.
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Cool Down: Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack before serving so they can firm up a bit, making them perfect for dipping or enjoying on their own.
Optional: Try adding a drizzle of melted chocolate on top for an extra indulgence!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Slice and Bake Cookies?
Indulging in freshly baked cookies is always a delight, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate the experience even more.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: A decadent mug of hot chocolate warms the soul and complements the buttery sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
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Cooling Milk: The classic duo of cookies and milk never disappoints! Whole milk brings out the flavors and balances the cookie’s richness.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries offer a burst of freshness that cuts through the sweetness, creating a delightful textural contrast.
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Cheesecake Dip: This creamy dip, made with mascarpone and a hint of vanilla, adds a delicious twist that pairs well with the cookie’s crunchy edges.
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Ice Cream Sandwiches: Take your Slice and Bake Cookies to the next level by sandwiching your favorite ice cream between two cookies for a fun, retro treat!
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Coffee or Espresso: The robust flavors in coffee are a superb match for the cookie’s sweetness—a perfect pick-me-up for any time of day.
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Citrus Sorbet: A refreshing citrus sorbet adds a bright note that cleanses the palate, making each cookie bite even more enjoyable.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling a bit of melted chocolate over your cookies creates a wonderfully decadent treat that oozes indulgence and charm.
How to Store and Freeze Slice and Bake Cookies
Fridge: Store freshly baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’ll stay soft and delicious, ready for snacking!
Freezer: If you want to keep the unbaked dough, wrap logs tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, slice the frozen dough and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating: For a warm treat, reheat chilled cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. They’ll melt in your mouth just like they did fresh out of the oven!
Refreshing: If you’ve stored your slice and bake cookies in the fridge, you can let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to regain their original texture and flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These Slice and Bake Cookies are a fantastic option for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance by following the basic steps up until shaping it into logs. Simply wrap the logs tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. For the best results, it’s essential to keep them well-wrapped to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, just remove the logs from the fridge, slice them, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll always have fresh cookies on hand with minimal last-minute effort—perfect for unexpected guests or a cozy night in!
Slice and Bake Cookies Variations
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your perfect cookie experience!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delightful alternative that everyone can enjoy.
- Chocolate Chip: Fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a classic twist that will have cookie lovers cheering!
- Nutty Crunch: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for an irresistible crunch that enhances both flavor and texture. A sprinkle of chopped nuts adds both heartiness and satisfaction.
- Citrus Zest: Incorporate the zest of one orange or lemon into the dough for a refreshing, bright flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet elements.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon or ginger powder for a warm spice sensation that elevates the cookie to a whole new level. This simple addition makes each bite feel cozy.
- Dried Fruits: Toss in 1/2 cup of chopped dried fruits like cranberries, cherries, or apricots for a chewy surprise that adds sweetness and a pop of color.
- Caramel Swirls: Drizzle some caramel sauce on the cookies right before baking for a gooey, decadent finish. The warm caramel transforms each cookie into a sweet delight!
- Minty Freshness: Add 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract for a refreshing twist, especially delightful around the holidays. It creates a festive and invigorating flavor!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Slice and Bake Cookies, ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming, which will result in a light and airy texture.
- A common mistake is overmixing the dough after adding the flour; stir just until combined to keep your cookies tender.
- If you want to achieve uniform slices, use a sharp knife and cut through the chilled dough with a smooth motion, applying even pressure.
- Remember to preheat your oven fully to 350°F (175°C) so your cookies bake evenly and reach that perfect golden hue.
Slice and Bake Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for my Slice and Bake Cookies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, ensure your butter is at room temperature. It should be soft to the touch but not melted, which allows for the perfect creaming consistency with the sugars. Fresh ingredients lead to delicious cookies, so check that your egg is not past its expiration date and that your baking extracts are aromatic.
How should I store my Slice and Bake Cookies?
Very good question! Store your freshly baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like them to last longer, consider refrigerating them, where they can stay fresh for up to 1 week. Just let them come to room temperature before enjoying; they’ll be just as delightful!
Can I freeze the Slice and Bake Cookies dough?
Absolutely! Wrap the unbaked dough logs tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, don’t forget to slice the frozen logs straight from the freezer—just extend the baking time by a couple of minutes for perfectly baked cookies!
What should I do if my cookie dough is crumbly?
If your dough is crumbly, it might need a bit more moisture. Try adding a teaspoon of milk or water and mix gently until it holds together. Also, ensure that your butter is at room temperature to create that smooth texture. If it’s too dry, it may not incorporate well with the flour.
Are there any dietary considerations for Slice and Bake Cookies?
Yes, definitely! If you have guests with dietary restrictions, consider using dairy-free butter or a vegan egg substitute, such as a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water). Always check for allergies related to ingredients like almonds if using almond extract, as nuts can trigger allergic reactions in some people.
How can I ensure my cookies come out evenly baked?
To help with even baking, make sure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F (175°C) before placing your cookies inside. Use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy release and even heat distribution. Additionally, position your racks in the center of the oven for optimal airflow. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking for even results!
Slice and Bake Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, sugar, and light brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Add in the egg yolk, salt, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Mix well until thoroughly combined and creamy.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the mixture. Stir until just combined.
- Divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll each portion into a log, about 2 inches in diameter.
- Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the chilled logs from the refrigerator and slice them into 1/4 inch thick rounds.
- Place the cookie slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Before baking, sprinkle colorful Nonpareils over the tops of the cookie slices for that festive touch!
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden around the edges.
- Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack before serving.
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