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oChef » Classic Vanilla Slice-and-Bake Sugar Cookies

Classic Vanilla Slice-and-Bake Sugar Cookies

This classic vanilla sugar cookie recipe relies on a convenient slice-and-bake method, making it an excellent choice for planning ahead. By chilling the dough in logs, you can easily slice uniform rounds without needing a rolling pin or cookie cutters.

Using basic pantry staples like butter, sugar, and eggs, these cookies come together quickly before their rest in the refrigerator. The result is a simple, buttery treat that pairs perfectly with tea or coffee.

Classic Vanilla Slice-and-Bake Sugar Cookies

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup (1-1/2 sticks) butter, softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar with an electric beater until combined.
  2. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat the mixture until it is smooth.
  3. Stir in the flour and knead the mixture lightly until a soft dough forms.
  4. Divide the dough in half. Wrap each half in waxed paper and shape it into a cylinder about 1-1/2 inches in diameter.
  5. Refrigerate the dough logs until they are firm, which takes about 2 hours.
  6. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  7. Cut the firm dough into 1/4-inch slices and arrange them on greased cookie sheets.
  8. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes.

Baking Tips

For the best results with refrigerator cookies, keep these simple pointers in mind.

  • Chill thoroughly: Ensure the dough is fully firm before slicing. If the dough is too soft, the rounds may lose their shape when cut.
  • Sharp knife: Use a sharp, non-serrated knife to get clean slices without squashing the log. Rotate the log slightly between cuts if it starts to flatten on one side.
  • Spacing: Even though these are sliced, leave a little room between cookies on the sheet to allow for airflow and slight spreading.

FAQ

Can I freeze the dough logs?

Yes, slice-and-bake dough is often freezer-friendly. You can wrap the cylinders tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to protect them from freezer burn. Thaw them slightly in the refrigerator before slicing so they do not crumble.

How do I store the baked cookies?

Allow the cookies to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps maintain their texture and freshness.

Can I add decorations to these cookies?

These cookies provide a neutral vanilla base that works well with simple decorations. You can roll the outside of the log in colored sugar before slicing, or sprinkle sugar on top of the slices just before baking.