There’s something magically nostalgic about slice and bake holiday cookies. The ease and versatility make them a favorite treat to bake and share during the festive season. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe for slice and bake holiday cookies offers four delicious flavors that capture the spirit of the holidays.
You’ll love how simple it is to prepare these cookies ahead of time and slice them fresh when you’re ready to bake. The variety ensures there’s something for everyone, making these cookies a perfect addition to your holiday celebrations.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Four festive flavors: classic sugar, peppermint chocolate, cinnamon spice, and gingerbread.
- Slice and bake method allows easy preparation and portion control.
- Perfectly crisp edges with tender centers for an ideal texture.
- Great for gifting or entertaining, with a beautiful presentation.
- Make-ahead dough freezes well, saving you time on busy days.
Ingredients
Gather these simple, pantry-friendly ingredients to make four distinct doughs that are easy to slice and bake into perfect holiday cookies.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, divided
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar, divided
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for peppermint dough)
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder (for peppermint dough)
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for cinnamon spice dough)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (for cinnamon spice dough)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (for gingerbread dough)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves (for gingerbread dough)
- 1/4 cup molasses (for gingerbread dough)
- Optional: colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes per batch
- Total Time: 1 hour (including chilling)
- Servings: About 48 cookies
- Calories: Approx. 130 per cookie
How to Make Slice and Bake Holiday Cookies – 4 Flavors – Butternut Bakery
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 3/4 cups flour, baking powder, and salt. Divide evenly into four bowls for each flavor base.
- In a large bowl, cream butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until fluffy, about 3 minutes. Beat in egg and vanilla extract until combined.
- Prepare Classic Sugar Cookie Dough: Add one portion of dry mix to butter mixture and stir until dough forms. Form into a log about 12 inches long, wrap in plastic, and chill.
- For Peppermint Chocolate Dough: Whisk together 1/2 cup powdered sugar, cocoa powder, 1/4 cup flour portion, and salt. Cream with 1/2 cup butter and peppermint extract, then form into a log and chill.
- Make Cinnamon Spice Dough: Mix cinnamon, nutmeg, and one flour portion; combine with butter and sugar. Shape into a log, wrap, and chill.
- Prepare Gingerbread Dough: Mix molasses with softened butter and sugar, add cloves, ginger, and one flour portion. Shape into a log and chill.
- Chill all dough logs for at least 30 minutes until firm for easy slicing.
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Slice dough logs into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place on parchment-lined baking sheets 2 inches apart.
- Bake each batch for 10 to 12 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Tips for the Best Results
- Be sure to chill the dough logs well to get clean, even slices.
- Use room temperature butter for smooth dough consistency.
- For festive flair, sprinkle colored sugar or crushed candy canes on peppermint cookies before baking.
- Store dough logs in the freezer for up to one month for easy holiday baking anytime.
- Rotate baking sheets halfway through baking for even cooking.
Storage and Reheating
Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to keep them fresh and crisp. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a sealed container for up to three months.
To reheat, place cookies on a baking sheet and warm in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes to refresh their crispness without drying them out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! The slice and bake holiday cookies dough can be prepared and chilled or frozen ahead of time. Just thaw in the refrigerator before slicing and baking.
Can I mix the flavors together?
While each flavor shines on its own, you can definitely get creative by swirling doughs or slicing different flavors side by side for a fun variety platter.
Do I need to use peppermint extract for the peppermint cookies?
Peppermint extract gives the cookies their classic holiday flavor, but you can substitute with vanilla extract for a milder taste if preferred.
What’s the best way to prevent cookies from spreading too much?
Chilling the dough thoroughly before slicing and baking helps prevent excessive spreading. Also, avoid using too much butter and do not over-grease the baking sheet.
