If you have ever wished for an easy, fuss-free treat that delivers buttery flavor and delightful texture, this Slice and Bake Cookies Recipe is exactly what you need in your baking repertoire. This classic method combines the simplicity of preparing dough ahead of time with the joy of fresh-baked cookies that practically melt in your mouth. From the creamy butter mixed with vanilla and almond extracts to the colorful sprinkles that add a festive touch, these cookies bring warmth and sweetness to any occasion with minimal effort. Trust me, once you try this Slice and Bake Cookies Recipe, it will become a beloved staple for quick, delicious homemade cookies.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and pantry-friendly, yet each plays a vital role in creating the perfect cookie. From the creamy butter that gives richness to the flour which provides structure, every element is essential for that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature): The base for your dough, butter adds richness and helps create that tender crumb.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Gives sweetness and helps with the cookie’s texture and browning.
- 1 large egg: Binds the dough and adds moisture for perfect chewiness.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract or flavoring: Enhances flavor with a sweet, aromatic note.
- 1 teaspoon almond extract or flavoring: Adds a warm, nutty depth that makes these cookies stand out.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and strengthens the dough.
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The main structure builder that keeps these cookies soft yet sturdy.
- Sprinkles: For a fun, colorful exterior that’s visually inviting and adds a slight crunch.
How to Make Slice and Bake Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Start by using a mixer to blend the room temperature butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This step is crucial because well-creamed butter and sugar result in light, tender cookies. Then, beat in the egg along with the vanilla and almond extracts to infuse the dough with a wonderful aroma.
Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients
Mix in the salt and all-purpose flour carefully, beating until the dough comes together completely. Be sure to scrape down the sides of your mixing bowl to ensure everything is well combined. The dough will be soft, but that’s exactly how it should be for this recipe.
Step 3: Shape the Dough into Logs
Divide the dough roughly into two halves. Lay each half onto a double layer of plastic wrap and shape it into a log about 2 1/2 inches wide. Don’t stress if the shape isn’t perfect since you’ll refine it later. Wrap the logs tightly in plastic wrap, making sure there are no air pockets.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Place these dough logs in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to firm up. This chilling time is the secret behind those neat, uniform slices and lets the flavors develop beautifully.
Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Once chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking. Take one dough log out of the fridge and roll it on the counter (still wrapped) to perfect that log shape.
Step 6: Add the Sprinkles
If you want to jazz up your cookies, pour sprinkles into a shallow dish. Remove the plastic wrap from the dough log and gently roll it in the sprinkles until the outside is fully coated. This adds a pop of color and subtle crunch perfect for celebrations or everyday enjoyment.
Step 7: Slice the Cookies
Now the fun part: slice the dough into thin rounds about 1/4-inch thick. Place each slice carefully on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them to allow edges to crisp just right. If some aren’t perfect circles, lightly shape them with your fingers before baking.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, watching closely for the cookie edges to turn a soft golden brown. Ten minutes gives you a delicate, tender edge, while waiting longer results in a crispier cookie if you prefer. Your kitchen will smell irresistible at this point!
Step 9: Cool and Store
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack. Store your delicious slice and bake cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they stay fresh for up to two weeks.
How to Serve Slice and Bake Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While sprinkles are the most straightforward and fun option, you can get creative by adding a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving. Alternatively, drizzle a little melted chocolate on top for a decadent finish that pairs beautifully with the almond notes.
Side Dishes
Serve these cookies with a cold glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or your favorite tea to complement their sweet richness. For an indulgent twist, try them alongside vanilla ice cream or a warm fruit compote for a dessert that’s both simple and impressive.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or create gift-worthy treats, stack a few cookies in a clear jar with colorful ribbons. You can also sandwich them with flavored buttercream or jam to create delightful cookie sandwiches that elevate this humble but delicious recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness and softness. They will stay delicious for about two weeks, perfect for enjoying throughout the week or sharing with friends and family.
Freezing
If you want to keep the dough on hand for quick baking anytime, freeze the wrapped dough logs tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 12 months, making this Slice and Bake Cookies Recipe wonderfully convenient.
Reheating
Reheat baked cookies briefly in a warm oven or microwave if you want to enjoy them fresh and slightly warm. Just 10 to 15 seconds in the microwave or a couple of minutes at low heat in the oven bring back that fresh-from-the-oven magic.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can, but since salted butter contains salt already, you might want to reduce or omit the additional 1/2 teaspoon salt to avoid overly salty cookies.
How long do I need to chill the dough?
At least 4 hours is best to ensure the dough is firm enough to slice cleanly and develop in flavor, but you can chill it overnight for even better results.
Can I add chocolate chips or nuts to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite add-ins like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit before shaping the dough logs for added texture and flavor.
Is the dough safe to eat raw?
Because this recipe contains raw egg, it’s best not to eat the dough raw. If you want to enjoy edible dough safely, consider substituting with pasteurized eggs or egg-free alternatives.
How thick should the cookie slices be?
About 1/4 inch thick is ideal—thin enough to bake evenly and slightly crisp at the edges, but thick enough to stay tender in the middle.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a recipe that’s simple, tasty, and ready to go from dough to oven with minimal fuss. This Slice and Bake Cookies Recipe captures the essence of home-baked goodness and makes it easy to enjoy fresh cookies almost anytime. So gather your ingredients, pop that dough in the fridge, and get ready to share smiles with these charming, buttery treats—your new favorite cookie is just a slice away!
Print
Slice and Bake Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 32 minutes
- Yield: 36 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These easy slice and bake cookies are a classic treat that come together with minimal effort and require no chilling beyond a few hours in the refrigerator. Soft and buttery with just the right sweetness, they are perfectly customizable with vanilla and almond extracts and can be rolled in colorful sprinkles for a festive touch. Just slice the dough, bake, and enjoy fresh, tender cookies with a crisp edge. Ideal for cookie lovers looking for a simple, make-ahead dessert.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract or flavoring
- 1 teaspoon almond extract or flavoring
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
Topping
- Sprinkles or nonpareils (optional, for coating)
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar: Use a mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. Then add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract, mixing well to combine all the flavors.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Add the salt and the all-purpose flour to the wet mixture. Beat everything together until the dough comes together fully. Scrape down the sides of the bowl and mix once more to ensure an even consistency.
- Form the Dough Logs: Divide the dough roughly in half. Place each portion on a large double layer of plastic wrap. Using the plastic wrap, shape the dough into logs approximately 2 1/2 inches wide. The dough will be soft, so handle gently and don’t worry if the shape isn’t perfect.
- Chill the Dough: Wrap the logs tightly in the plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to firm up the dough and make it easier to slice.
- Preheat Oven: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup and even baking.
- Define Shape: Remove one dough log from the fridge. Keeping it wrapped in plastic wrap, roll it gently on the countertop to better define its round shape.
- Coat with Sprinkles (Optional): If using sprinkles, pour them into a shallow tray or plate. Remove the plastic wrap and roll the dough log in the sprinkles to coat the exterior evenly.
- Slice and Arrange: Slice the dough into 1/4-inch thick slices with a sharp knife. Arrange the slices on the prepared baking sheet. You may shape the cookies gently with your fingers if you want them perfectly round.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn a light golden brown. For softer cookies, bake closer to 10 minutes; longer baking will produce crispier cookies.
- Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before storing or serving.
- Store: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks or freeze them tightly wrapped for up to 12 months.
Notes
- The dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours beyond the minimum chilling time before baking.
- If you don’t have almond extract, you can omit it or substitute with an additional teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- For different flavors, try adding lemon or orange zest to the dough.
- Use parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- For crispier cookies, bake for the full 12 minutes or slightly longer; for softer cookies, stick to 10 minutes.
