Almond Pistachio Slice and Bake Cookies (4 Variations)

Slice-and-bake cookies are a baker's best friend: a delicious, make-ahead treat that's perfect for unexpected guests or busy weeknights. This recipe combines a basic vanilla cookie dough with pistachios, cocoa, almonds, and chocolate chips in four different variations. Making these cookies is super easy. The dough comes together quickly, and the freezing step ensures easy slicing and even baking. No matter if you're a seasoned baker or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is a guaranteed success. With ingredients like butter, sugar, eggs, flour, and of course, pistachios and almonds, these cookies are a classic combination that’s always in season. And best of all, you’ll always have a sough stash in the freezer for times when the cravings hit!

What Are Slice and Bake Cookies?

Slice-and-bake cookies are a convenient and delicious way to enjoy homemade cookies. They're made by forming cookie dough into a log, chilling it (usually in the freezer), then slicing it into individual cookies before baking. This method allows you to prepare the dough in advance and bake only as many cookies as you need at a time (perfect for cravings or unexpected guests! They're often buttery and tender, with endless possibilities for flavor variations and toppings.

They're the homemade version of those cookie dough logs you might find in the grocery store but with much more control over the ingredients and flavors.

Tips

• Cream the butter and sugar thoroughly. This step is crucial for achieving a light and fluffy texture.
• Use cold ingredients. Cold butter and eggs help prevent the dough from becoming too soft and difficult to handle.
• Tightly wrap the dough. This prevents the dough from drying out and cracking while chilling.
• Chill thoroughly. Proper chilling is essential for firm dough that slices easily.
• Consider freezing. For longer-term storage, freeze the dough logs. Thaw in the refrigerator before slicing.
• Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: This allows for proper air circulation and prevents cookies from spreading too much.
• Overbaking can lead to dry cookies. Remove them from the oven when lightly golden brown.
• For another depth of flavor, you can toast the nuts. Toasting the nuts enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch.
• Use high-quality ingredients. Good-quality pistachios and almonds will elevate the taste of your cookies.
• Try adding different extracts, such as vanilla or almond, to complement the nuts.

Can I Add Other Nuts or Seeds to The Recipe?

Absolutely! Try adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or chia seeds.

How Long Can I Freeze the Cookie Dough?

Up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or freezer paper.

What Is the Best Way to Thaw Frozen Cookie Dough?

Refrigerate overnight. This allows the dough to soften gradually.

How Can I Make the Cookies Chewier?

Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar, or add a bit of molasses to the dough.

Other Cookies You Have to Try!

3-Ingredient Nutella Cookies

Shortbread Cookies

Butter Cookies

2-Ingredient Chocolate Cookies

Pinwheel Cookies

How To Store Slice and Bake Cookies

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The cookie dough can be frozen for up to 3 months.

How To Make Slice and Bake Cookies

In a bowl, add the butter, powdered sugar, eggs, and vanilla essence. Mix until combined.

Dd the flour and baking powder, mixing until just combined. Then knead until the dough is smooth.

Divide the dough into equal portions.

Now you can create variations of each. To make chocolate chip cookies, knead the chocolate chips into the dough.

For the pistachio and vanilla cookie, mix the pistachio grains into one piece of the dough.

Shape the cookie dough into a log.

Take the two logs and twist them around each other.

Roll the two pieces into a solid log.

To make the chocolate and pistachio cookie, mix the cocoa powder into one of the dough pieces.

Add the chopped pistachios on top and work into the cookie dough.

To make a chocolate chip and almond cookie, work the almonds and chocolate chips into the plain cookie dough.

Make a chocolate and vanilla cookie by adding three thin strips of cocoa dough to the plain cookie dough.

Shape each dough portion into a log, wrap it in plastic wrap, and freeze for 1 hour.

After one hour, slice the dough into ¼ inch pieces.

Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Cut frozen dough into ¼-inch thick slices. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Enjoy with a hot coffee or glass of milk!