Easy Slice n Bake Vanilla Bean Sugar Cookies.

When it comes to baking, nothing beats the comforting aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your kitchen. These Easy Slice n Bake Vanilla Bean Sugar Cookies are not only simple to prepare, but they also melt in your mouth with every bite. Whether you’re gearing up for a holiday celebration or just want a sweet treat to enjoy with a cup of tea, this recipe is a must-try. With the rich flavors of vanilla bean and a hint of hazelnut, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your household.

Top Reasons to Make Easy Slice n Bake Vanilla Bean Sugar Cookies.

• Quick Preparation: The dough can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, making it easy to bake fresh cookies whenever you desire.
• Customizable: Add your favorite sprinkles or toppings to make these cookies festive and fun for any occasion.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of vanilla bean powder and almond extract creates a wonderfully rich flavor that sets these cookies apart from the rest.
• Perfect for Gifting: Slice n bake cookies are easy to package and make for delightful homemade gifts for friends and family.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids will love to help roll the dough and decorate the cookies, making it a perfect family baking activity.

What You’ll Gather

• 3 sticks (1 1/2 cups) salted butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup light or dark brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean powder or 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon hazelnut liquor (optional)
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 large eggs
• 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 sticks (1 cup) salted butter, at room temperature (for frosting)
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
• 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce or maple syrup (for frosting)
• Assorted holiday sprinkles, for decorating

Gear Checklist

• Mixing Bowls: A set of mixing bowls for combining your ingredients.
• Electric Mixer: A hand or stand mixer will help achieve a smooth batter.
• Cookie Sheet: A baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cookie release.
• Plastic Wrap: For wrapping the cookie dough logs before refrigerating.
• Cooling Rack: To cool your cookies after baking.

Build Easy Slice n Bake Vanilla Bean Sugar Cookies. Step by Step

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the 3 sticks of salted butter and 1 cup of brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.

Step 2: Add Flavorings and Eggs

Next, mix in the 1 teaspoon of vanilla bean powder (or 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract), the optional 1 tablespoon of hazelnut liquor, and the 1 teaspoon of almond extract. Beat in the 2 large eggs one at a time, ensuring they are fully incorporated before adding the next.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the 4 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Divide the dough in half and roll each portion into a log shape, about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.

Step 5: Preheat the Oven

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 6: Slice and Bake

Remove the dough logs from the refrigerator and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place the cookie slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between them to allow for spreading during baking.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 8: Prepare the Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat together the 2 sticks of room temperature salted butter, 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, and 2 1/2 cups of powdered sugar until smooth. Add the 1/4 cup of caramel sauce or maple syrup and beat until well combined.

Step 9: Decorate the Cookies

Once the cookies are completely cooled, spread the frosting on top and sprinkle with assorted holiday sprinkles for a festive touch.

What to Use Instead

• Butter: Use a dairy-free butter alternative if you prefer a vegan option.
• Brown Sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a healthier alternative.
• Hazelnut Liquor: Replace with extra vanilla extract or omit entirely for a non-alcoholic version.
• All-Purpose Flour: Gluten-free flour blends can be substituted for a gluten-free option.

Pro Tips & Notes

• For the best texture, make sure your butter is at room temperature before creaming.
• If you want a more intense vanilla flavor, you can increase the amount of vanilla bean powder.
• Don’t skip chilling the dough! This helps to prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
• Feel free to experiment with different extracts or add-ins, such as citrus zest or chocolate chips.

Prep Ahead & Store

You can prepare the cookie dough logs up to a week in advance and keep them in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze the logs for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just slice and bake straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Once baked, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Common Qs About Easy Slice n Bake Vanilla Bean Sugar Cookies.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! Wrap the logs tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. When ready to use, just slice and bake from frozen, adding a bit more time to the baking process.

What can I use instead of almond extract?

If you’re allergic to almonds or prefer not to use almond extract, you can substitute it with an equal amount of vanilla extract or simply omit it.

How do I make the cookies softer?

To achieve softer cookies, avoid overbaking them. The cookies should be slightly underbaked when you take them out of the oven, as they will continue to cook on the baking sheet.

Can I use a different type of frosting?

Yes! Feel free to use any frosting you like, such as cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk.

Desserts to Finish

• Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
• Lemon Sugar Cookies
• Cinnamon Snickerdoodles

Hungry for More?

If these Easy Slice n Bake Vanilla Bean Sugar Cookies have whetted your appetite for more baking adventures, stay tuned! There are countless delicious recipes waiting for you to explore. From decadent brownies to light and fluffy muffins, the world of baking is full of endless possibilities. Remember, the joy of baking is not just in the end result, but in the process itself—so gather your ingredients, invite a friend, and start creating sweet memories together!