This Icebox Slice and Bake Cookies recipe comes together in about 30 minutes and uses a convenient chill and slice method for a quick and easy dessert that your family will love! Switch up the mix-ins, use whatever leftovers you have, or let your kids get creative with flavors, it’s that versatile! If you’re looking for an easy way to clean out your pantry or add a sweet touch to your weeknight dinner, these cookies are just the ticket.
Essential Ingredients for Icebox Slice and Bake Cookies
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional flavorings and mix-ins
Let’s Get Cooking!
Rolling up your sleeves and making these Icebox Slice and Bake Cookies is so much fun, you might forget they’re also super quick! Here’s how to make them:
1. Cream the butter and sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, around 2-3 minutes. You want the mixture to turn pale and fluffy like a cloud!
2. Mix in the vanilla and salt
Add that lovely vanilla extract and a sprinkle of salt. Mix it in until everything is well combined, even that aroma will put a smile on your face!
3. Gradually add the flour
Now it’s time to add the flour gradually, mixing until just combined. Pro tip: scrape the sides of the bowl every so often to ensure all the flour gets incorporated.
4. Divide the dough
If you’re planning on different flavors (which is so much fun), go ahead and divide your dough into halves or quarters.
5. Add your flavorings
Mix in those optional flavorings or mix-ins to each portion of dough. Think about how each one will complement the others; I always love mixing chocolate with toasted pecans for a nutty crunch!
6. Shape into logs
Time to get your hands messy (but trust me, it’s worth it)! Shape each portion into a log, about 1.5–2 inches in diameter, and wrap them tightly in parchment paper.
7. Chill the dough
Pop these logs into the fridge to chill for at least 2 hours or until firm. I usually leave mine overnight, this makes slicing much easier!
8. Preheat your oven
Get your oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). This is where the magic happens!
9. Slice the cookies
Take your chilled logs out of the fridge and slice them into 1/4-inch thick cookies. Place them onto a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
10. Bake!
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. You’ll know they’re done when your kitchen smells like a bakery seriously, it’s the best!
11. Cool and decorate (optional)
Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. If you’re feeling extra fancy, dip them in chocolate or drizzle with caramel.
Why I Love These Icebox Slice and Bake Cookies
This is my go-to recipe when I need a quick dessert or if I want to surprise my family with something sweet! I love how easy they are to throw together, making them the ultimate comfort food! Seriously, I’m a real sucker for anything that offers the option for variety. Plus, in our busy household, I can make the dough ahead of time and just slice and bake when the craving hits!
Oh, and the best part is that even my picky kids ask for seconds, who knew a simple cookie could be such a hit? It’s also a fantastic way to sneak in some classic flavors based on what you have in your pantry.
If you loved these Icebox Slice and Bake Cookies, be sure to check out my classic Oreo Cheesecake Cookies, my No Bake Eggnog Cookie Butter Pie, or my delicious Easter Egg Sugar Cookies.
Why This Recipe Works
Quick & Easy
These cookies come together in under 30 minutes! Yes, seriously! What a relief to have a hassle-free recipe to keep in your back pocket!
Make-Ahead Friendly
Make the dough ahead of time and keep it wrapped in the fridge for a week or freeze it for up to three months. Just slice and bake when you need them!
Customizable
You can use whatever ingredients you have! This recipe invites creativity, whether you’ve got mint chips from last year’s baking spree or a half-opened bag of dried cranberries.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Make multiple logs of dough, chill, and then slice as needed throughout the week for fresh-baked cookies whenever you want, but be warned, they may disappear quickly!
Crowd-Pleaser
Loaded with tons of flavor and so easy to share, you’ll have everyone reaching for another. These cookies are perfect for gatherings, school events, or just keeping at home for a quick treat.
Serving and Storing Tips
How to Serve These Cookies
These cookies pair beautifully with a tall glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee. The options are endless! You could take it a step further by making a mini ice cream sandwich, just slice the cookies thinner and add a scoop of your favorite ice cream in between.
Storage
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They might lose a bit of their crispness, but that chewy center stays delightful!
Reheating
If you want to revive that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste, you can pop them briefly in the microwave (a few seconds) or into the oven at a low temperature for just a couple of minutes.
Freezer Friendly
Yes! These cookies are freezer friendly. Just keep them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, and they’ll last for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, simply slice and bake directly from the freezer (just add a minute or two to the baking time).
So, there you have it my beloved Icebox Slice and Bake Cookies! Delicious, versatile, and oh-so-perfect for any occasion. They’ll become a regular staple in your home, just like they are in ours! Happy baking, friends! Follow us on Pinterest for daily baking inspiration that brings warmth to your table!
Icebox Slice and Bake Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add vanilla extract and a sprinkle of salt, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined. Scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure all flour is incorporated.
- Divide the dough into halves or quarters if using different flavors.
- Mix in optional flavorings or mix-ins to each dough portion.
- Shape each portion into a log, about 1.5–2 inches in diameter, and wrap tightly in parchment paper.
- Chill the dough logs in the fridge for at least 2 hours or until firm.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the chilled logs into 1/4-inch thick cookies and place onto a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Optional: Dip in chocolate or drizzle with caramel for extra flair.