As I rummaged through my holiday baking supplies, a sweet aroma of nostalgia filled the air, reminding me of a childhood spent in flour-dusted kitchens. This year, I’m excited to share my Christmas Slice & Bake Cookies, the ultimate solution for those festive cravings! With a rich buttery flavor and soft, chewy texture, these cookies are incredibly easy to make and even easier to customize with your favorite add-ins. Whether you’re gathering friends for a cozy cookie exchange or simply indulging in a treat yourself, these versatile cookies are ready to impress and make your holiday season a little brighter. Can you decide on your favorite flavor combination? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Why Are These Cookies So Special?
Irresistible flavor combinations are just the beginning! Each slice & bake cookie offers a wonderfully soft, chewy texture that makes them perfect for any festive gathering or cozy night in. Customizable to your heart’s delight, you can experiment with mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit. With a process that’s as simple as rolling the dough and slicing it when you’re ready to bake, it’s a major time-saver during the busy holiday season. Plus, these cookies are sure to dazzle your friends and family, making them an instant crowd-pleaser! For a delightful twist, try pairing them with a warm drink, like hot cocoa or coffee, just like with these Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars. Happy baking!
Christmas Slice & Bake Cookie Ingredients
For the Dough
- Butter – Essential for richness and flavor; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Sugar – Provides sweetness for the cookies; granulated sugar is typical, but consider using brown sugar for added moisture and a hint of caramel.
- Flour – Gives structure to your Christmas Slice & Bake cookies; all-purpose flour works, but you can opt for gluten-free blends if needed.
- Baking Powder – Helps the cookies rise; you can also use baking soda in a pinch.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; using homemade extract can make it even more special.
For the Mix-Ins
- Chocolate Chips – Adds delightful bursts of sweetness; feel free to use milk or dark chocolate based on your preference.
- Nuts – Such as walnuts or pecans, for a satisfying crunch; chop them to your desired size.
- Dried Fruits – Like cranberries for a tart twist; they work beautifully with the buttery dough.
- Festive Sprinkles – Roll the cookie log in sprinkles before chilling for a fun, decorative touch.
Optional Add-Ins
- Spices – Consider adding cinnamon, ginger, or nutmeg for a holiday flavor explosion.
- Crushed Peppermint – For a refreshing and festive twist; perfect for a chocolate peppermint variation.
With these tasty ingredients, you’re on your way to baking scrumptious Christmas Slice & Bake cookies that will spread joy and delight this holiday season!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Slice & Bake Cookies
Step 1: Dough Preparation
In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of softened butter and 1 cup of sugar together using a stand mixer on medium speed for 8–10 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks pale in color and has a smooth texture. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix in 3 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of baking powder into the butter-sugar mixture. Continue mixing on low speed until just combined; the dough will be slightly crumbly but should come together when pressed. Add in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract for flavor and mix until incorporated, taking care not to overmix.
Step 3: Mix in Additions
Fold in your choice of mix-ins, such as chocolate chips or chopped nuts, using a spatula. Aim for about 1 to 2 cups of mix-ins to ensure a flavorful bite in every cookie. Gently incorporate them until evenly distributed throughout the dough, which should now be soft and well-blended without being sticky.
Step 4: Shape and Chill
Divide the dough into two equal portions and roll each into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap each log tightly in parchment paper or plastic wrap, ensuring no air pockets remain. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, which helps the dough firm up for easier slicing and enhances the flavors.
Step 5: Slice & Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the chilled dough logs from the refrigerator and unwrap them. With a sharp knife, slice the logs into ½-inch rounds, taking care to create even pieces for consistent baking. Arrange the cookies on parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving space between them for expansion as they bake.
Step 6: Cool Down
Bake the cookies for about 12 minutes or until the edges turn a lovely golden brown. Once baked, remove the trays from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. Afterward, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the delightful aroma of your freshly baked Christmas Slice & Bake Cookies!
Christmas Slice & Bake Cookies Variations
Feel free to dive into creativity and make these cookies your own—they’ll taste even more delightful with your personal twists!
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Gingerbread Twist: Add 2 teaspoons of cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of ginger, and a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor. Imagine the sweet scent of gingerbread wafting through your kitchen as you slice into these festive cookies!
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Chocolate Peppermint: Mix in 1 cup of chocolate chunks and ½ cup of crushed peppermint candies for a refreshing crunch. The holiday spirit shines through with each minty bite, making them a perfect after-dinner treat.
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Cranberry Delight: Fold in 1 cup of dried cranberries for a tart burst that contrasts the buttery sweetness. These cookies offer a lovely pop of color and flavor, brightening up any cookie tray.
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Nutty Surprise: Toss in 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch. The nuttiness complements the soft cookie texture beautifully, giving you that lovely contrast in every bite!
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Spice it Up: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of cardamom or a dash of allspice for a unique flavor twist. This unexpected hint of warmth will surprise your taste buds and keep them coming back for more!
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Chewy Raisin: Add 1 cup of raisins for a chewy aspect that pairs perfectly with the buttery dough. This classic combination harks back to childhood memories of homemade treats, evoking nostalgia with every bite.
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Flavored Extract Swap: Try substituting vanilla extract with almond or hazelnut for a nutty aroma. This simple swap can transform the flavor profile and add an unexpected allure that is simply irresistible.
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Sprinkle Fun: Roll the logs in festive sprinkles or coconut before chilling for a colorful presentation. Not only do they look amazing, but they also add a fun texture that kids will absolutely love!
Explore these delicious ideas, and you may discover a new family favorite! For more delightful recipes, don’t miss these amazing Cheesy Baked Olive Dips that are perfect for entertaining or the deliciously bright Triple Berry Bake that’s sure to impress everyone at your next gathering. Happy baking!
Storage Tips for Christmas Slice & Bake Cookies
Room Temperature: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their delightful softness and flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, you can keep the cookies in the refrigerator for up to 7 days; just remember to seal them well to avoid drying out.
Freezer: Unbaked logs can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To enjoy cookies that taste freshly baked, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes before serving, so they become warm and chewy again.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Slice & Bake Cookies are perfect for those who want to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the dough and shape it into logs, then wrap them tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, for longer storage, the logs can be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure they’re wrapped securely to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, simply slice the chilled logs into rounds and pop them in the oven. Treating them with a bit of refrigerating time ensures they slice easily and maintain that delightful texture—just as delicious as if made fresh that day!
Helpful Tricks for Christmas Slice & Bake Cookies
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Butter Temperature: Always use softened butter: This ensures a creamy mixture that traps air, giving your cookies that light and fluffy texture.
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Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step: Chilling the dough for at least an hour makes slicing easier and helps maintain the cookie’s shape as they bake.
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Sharp Knife: Use a sharp knife for slicing: A clean cut prevents squishing the cookies and guarantees a uniform thickness, leading to evenly baked Christmas Slice & Bake Cookies.
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Even Spacing: Space them on the baking sheet: Leave enough space between cookie slices to allow for expansion while baking, preventing them from merging.
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Storage Tips: Store properly: Keep baked cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to 5 days. Unbaked logs can be frozen for later use without losing flavor!
What to Serve with Slice & Bake Holiday Cookies
There’s something magical about crafting a delightful cookie spread that complements the soft, buttery bites of holiday goodness.
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Hot Cocoa: Rich and creamy, this drink enhances the cookie’s sweetness while offering a warm and comforting contrast to each chewy bite.
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Coffee: A classic pairing, the bold flavor of coffee beautifully balances the sugary notes in your cookies, creating an inviting after-dinner treat.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool texture of ice cream brings an indulgent touch that pairs wonderfully with the buttery richness of holiday cookies.
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Milk: A timeless favorite, a tall glass of chilled milk complements the soft cookies, making every bite feel like a nostalgic hug.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing burst of freshness from seasonal fruits like pomegranates and apples can provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness of your cookies.
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Cheese Platter: Offering a mix of creamy brie and sharp cheddar can create a sophisticated dessert buffet that balances the sweet and savory perfectly.
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Nutty Biscotti: These crunchy treats add an exciting texture and nutty flavor that complements the soft and chewy cookies, keeping your palate entertained.
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Spice Tea: Fragrant spices can elevate the cookie experience, offering a warm, aromatic backdrop that brings out the flavors within each holiday cookie.
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Dessert Wine: A light dessert wine, like a moscato or a late-harvest riesling, can bring out the flavors of your cookies while serving as a lovely beverage addition to your holiday gathering.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Lightly drizzle homemade chocolate over your cookies before serving for a simple yet elegant touch that adds a dash of indulgence.
Christmas Slice & Bake Cookies Recipe FAQs
What kind of butter should I use for the dough?
Absolutely! It’s best to use unsalted butter that’s at room temperature for your Christmas Slice & Bake Cookies. This ensures a creamy mixture and allows for better incorporation with the sugar, giving the cookies a wonderfully rich flavor. You can also use salted butter, but keep in mind to adjust the added salt in the recipe accordingly.
How should I store the baked cookies?
For optimal freshness, store your baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’d like to extend their shelf life a bit longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 7 days—just ensure they’re well-sealed to prevent them from drying out. For that soft, just-baked texture, give them a quick reheating in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes!
Can I freeze the unbaked cookie logs?
Definitely! Freezing is a fantastic option for the unbaked logs of your Christmas Slice & Bake Cookies. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil to avoid freezer burn, and store them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply slice them while still frozen and add an extra minute or two to the baking time.
What should I do if the cookies come out too hard?
If your cookies turn out harder than expected, it could be from overbaking or not using enough butter. Make sure to bake just until the edges are golden brown and check them a minute or two earlier than the suggested time. Also, ensure you’re using the right amount of butter as it adds moisture and softness—this is key for that melt-in-your-mouth texture!
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Very! You can easily make Christmas Slice & Bake Cookies gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. I recommend using one that includes xanthan gum to help mimic the texture. Just follow the same measurements as you would with regular flour, and you’ll have delightful cookies that everyone can enjoy!
What are the best mix-ins for these cookies?
The more, the merrier! You can customize your Christmas Slice & Bake Cookies with various mix-ins. Chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits work beautifully, but don’t hesitate to experiment with crushed peppermint or spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for a holiday twist. About 1 to 2 cups of mix-ins ensures a flavorful bite in every cookie!
Irresistible Christmas Slice & Bake Cookies for Festive Fun
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together using a stand mixer on medium speed for 8–10 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Gradually mix in the flour and baking powder into the butter-sugar mixture.
- Fold in your choice of mix-ins using a spatula until evenly distributed.
- Divide the dough into two portions and roll each into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap tightly and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the logs into ½-inch rounds and arrange on baking sheets.
- Bake for about 12 minutes or until edges are golden brown. Let cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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