Loaded Holiday Slice-and-Bake Cookies: A Festive Treat for Any Occasion
Prep dough in advance to enjoy fresh, festive treats whenever guests arrive.
Loaded Holiday Slice-and-Bake Cookies
There is nothing quite like a tray of colorful, chewy cookies to bring holiday cheer to any gathering. Loaded holiday slice-and-bake cookies are a perfect solution for busy home bakers who want something both festive and easy to make ahead of time. With the versatility to customize mix-ins and the convenience of making the dough ahead, these cookies are a standout addition to your holiday repertoire.
Why Slice-and-Bake Cookies?
Slice-and-bake cookies, also known as refrigerator cookies or icebox cookies, are uniquely convenient because:
- You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the freezer or fridge for days or weeks.
- Whenever you need fresh cookies, simply slice the chilled dough and bake what you need.
- This method makes entertaining, gifting, and last-minute treats incredibly simple.
For holiday bakers, making several logs of dough in advance allows you to mix and match flavors without spending hours in the kitchen every time you need a cookie platter.
Ingredients for Loaded Holiday Slice-and-Bake Cookies
This recipe brings together a base of classic cookie dough and infuses it with exciting mix-ins for added flavor and texture.
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 1/2 cups |
| Baking soda | 1 tsp |
| Instant coffee granules | 1 tsp |
| Kosher salt | 1 tsp |
| Packed light brown sugar | 1 1/4 cups |
| Granulated sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Salted butter, at room temperature | 2 sticks (1 cup) |
| Pure vanilla extract | 1 Tbsp |
| Large eggs | 2 |
| Creamy peanut butter | 2 Tbsp |
| Chocolate-hazelnut spread | 2 Tbsp |
| Red and green M&M’s, coarsely chopped | 1 cup |
| Finely chopped pecans | 1/2 cup |
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prepare the Dough
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, instant coffee granules, and kosher salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and softened butter. Beat with an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 1 minute).
- Add vanilla extract and blend.
- Beat in eggs, one at a time, scraping the bowl between additions.
- Add peanut butter and chocolate-hazelnut spread. Beat until just combined.
2. Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Mix-ins
- Add the flour mixture in three batches, blending just until incorporated after each addition.
- Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure even mixing.
- With a wooden spoon or sturdy spatula, fold in the chopped M&M’s and pecans.
3. Shape and Chill the Dough
- Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on your counter and place half of the dough on it.
- Shape the dough into a thick log (about 9 inches long and 2 inches wide), then tightly wrap the log in the plastic wrap.
- Repeat with the remaining dough to form a second log.
- Chill until firm—at least 3 hours in the refrigerator or 1.5 hours in the freezer. (Dough can be frozen for up to 3 months; defrost slightly before slicing.)
4. Bake the Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Unwrap a chilled dough log and cut into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
- Place slices 2 inches apart on the baking sheets to allow for spreading.
- Bake for about 12 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through, until the cookie edges are set but centers are just barely firm.
- Allow cookies to cool for 10 minutes on the baking sheets, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
What others are reading
Customizing Your Slice-and-Bake Cookies
While festive M&M’s and pecans are classic mix-ins for the holidays, this recipe is endlessly adaptable throughout the year:
- Swap the chocolate-hazelnut spread for almond butter or Nutella for a different twist.
- Use walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts instead of pecans for a unique flavor.
- Replace M&M’s with white chocolate chips, dried cherries, or toffee bits for variety.
- Add spices such as cinnamon, ginger, or cloves for warmth and depth.
- For extra chewiness, stir in 1/2 cup shredded coconut or 1/4 cup finely chopped dried fruit.
Tips for Slice-and-Bake Cookie Success
- Chill thoroughly: Chilled dough retains its shape during slicing and baking, yielding clean-looking rounds.
- Even slicing: Use a sharp, thin-bladed knife for the neatest slices. If the dough crumbles, let it sit out for 5 minutes to soften slightly.
- Uniform sizing: To ensure even baking, keep your slice thickness consistent.
- Storing and gifting: Baked cookies will keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Wrapped dough logs also make great gifts with baking instructions attached.
Nutritional Considerations
Holiday cookies are meant for enjoying and sharing, but you may wish to adjust the recipe depending on dietary needs:
- For nut-free cookies, omit pecans and ensure your mix-ins are nut-free.
- Look for dye-free candies or all-natural sprinkles to avoid artificial colorings.
- For gluten-free needs, substitute a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend (texture will differ slightly).
Creative Serving and Decorating Ideas
- Dip half of each baked cookie in melted chocolate and sprinkle with holiday-themed sprinkles or flaky sea salt.
- Drizzle with white or dark chocolate for an elegant touch.
- Package cookies in decorative tins or cellophane bags tied with ribbon for party favors or edible gifts.
- Arrange sliced, unbaked dough rounds on a festive platter and let family or guests press in extra toppings before baking.
Holiday Cookie Traditions and Variations
Inspiration from Classic Christmas Cookies
Many families have a favorite Christmas cookie, but slice-and-bake logs make it easy to experiment with flavors from other classics:
- Gingerbread Slice-and-Bake: Mix in ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice; top each slice with crystallized ginger and turbinado sugar before baking.
- Fruitcake Cookies: Fold in chopped candied fruit and nuts for a nod to old-fashioned festive desserts.
- Peppermint Sugar Slices: Add crushed peppermint candies and white chocolate chips to the dough for a burst of minty, creamy flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I freeze the dough for later use?
A: Yes! You can freeze the wrapped dough logs for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator or let sit out for 10–15 minutes before slicing and baking.
Q: Why do my cookies spread too much?
A: Cookies often spread excessively if the dough is not chilled long enough or if the butter was too soft when mixed. Chill the dough until very firm, and if necessary, chill the sliced rounds on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before baking.
Q: Can I omit the coffee granules?
A: Yes, the instant coffee deepens the chocolate flavor but is not essential. Feel free to leave it out or replace with a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth.
Q: What other mix-ins work well?
A: Try butterscotch chips, marshmallows, mini peanut butter cups, or even a swirl of caramel. The options are nearly endless!
Q: How can I make my cookies extra festive?
A: Incorporate colored candies, seasonal sprinkles, or edible glitter. Dipped and drizzled finishes add both flavor and visual flair; get creative based on the holiday occasion.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- Unbaked dough logs: Double-wrap and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Slice what you need, bake, and keep the rest frozen.
- Baked cookies: Store cooled cookies in an airtight tin or container for up to one week. For maximum freshness, layer parchment or waxed paper between layers.
- Holiday gifts: These cookies stack and keep beautifully, making them ideal additions to holiday trays, mail-order gifts, or cookie exchanges.
Cookie Platter Perfection: How to Assemble a Show-Stopping Tray
- Include a variety of slice-and-bake options, such as chocolate chip, gingerbread, and fruit-studded variations.
- Use fresh greenery, sugared cranberries, or candied citrus to add color and interest to your tray.
- Always include gluten-free or nut-free options if serving to a crowd.
- Label each cookie variety for an inviting presentation.
Final Thoughts for Holiday Bakers
No matter your level of experience, holiday slice-and-bake cookies take the stress out of seasonal baking. Adapt them to fit your pantry, your traditions, and your schedule—these cookies are truly made for sharing and celebrating.
Whether handed to a neighbor, gifted to a teacher, or enjoyed by the fireplace with a cup of cocoa, these cookies are sure to earn a place in your most cherished holiday memories.
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a34763440/gingerbread-slice-and-bake-cookies/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a34577319/holiday-slice-and-bake-cookies/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g34127696/christmas-cookie-recipes/
- https://www.aol.com/pioneer-womans-best-christmas-cookies-155400472.html
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