Slice and Bake Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
Introduction
Slice and bake cookies are a classic favorite for busy bakers who want delicious homemade treats with minimal effort. This recipe creates buttery, chocolate chip-studded rounds that are perfect for any occasion. Plus, the dough can be made ahead for convenience.

Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- Sprinkles, for decoration (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Step 2: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.
- Step 4: Fold in the mini chocolate chips, if using.
- Step 5: Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap.
- Step 6: Refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
- Step 7: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Step 8: Unwrap the dough logs and, if desired, roll them in sprinkles for decoration.
- Step 9: Slice each log into 1/4-inch thick rounds and arrange on the prepared baking sheets about 1 inch apart.
- Step 10: Bake 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Step 11: Cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Tips & Variations
- For a fun twist, try adding chopped nuts or dried fruit to the dough along with the chocolate chips.
- If you prefer softer cookies, slightly reduce the baking time and keep a close watch during baking.
- Rolling the logs in sprinkles adds a festive touch and extra color.
- You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
Storage
Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep dough logs, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to one week or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen dough in the refrigerator before slicing and baking. Reheat baked cookies in a warm oven for a few minutes to refresh their texture.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to a week or frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure it is tightly wrapped to prevent drying out.
Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of mini chips?
Absolutely. Regular chocolate chips will work fine but may create a slightly different texture and look. Mini chips are recommended for more even distribution in each cookie slice.
Print
Slice and Bake Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 36 cookies 1x
Description
Enjoy these classic slice and bake cookies made with rich, buttery dough, mini chocolate chips, and optional sprinkles for a festive touch. These easy-to-make cookies are perfect for preparing ahead of time, chilling, slicing, and baking to golden perfection—ideal for any occasion or just a sweet treat.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
Decoration
- Sprinkles, for decoration (optional)
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined, ensuring an even consistency in the dough.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt thoroughly to ensure uniform distribution of the leavening and seasoning.
- Form the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until a soft dough forms without overmixing to keep tenderness.
- Incorporate Chocolate Chips: Fold in the mini chocolate chips evenly throughout the dough for bursts of chocolate in every bite.
- Shape and Chill: Divide the dough in half and shape each portion into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Decorate Dough Logs: Unwrap the chilled dough logs. Optionally, roll the logs in sprinkles for a colorful, festive appearance before slicing.
- Slice and Arrange: Slice each log into 1/4-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife, and place the slices on the prepared baking sheets about 1 inch apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden, indicating they are fully cooked but still soft inside.
- Cool Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes to set, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely for optimal texture.
Notes
- For best results, use room temperature butter to ensure easy creaming with sugar.
- Refrigerating the dough is crucial for slice and bake cookies to hold their shape during baking.
- Mini chocolate chips provide a balanced chocolate flavor without overpowering the cookie.
- If desired, customize by adding nuts or different types of chips in place of mini chocolate chips.
- Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: slice and bake cookies, chocolate chip cookies, easy cookies, bake ahead cookies, classic cookie recipe

