Refrigerator (or Rolled) Cookies

Refrigerator cookies are a classic treat that offers both convenience and versatility. By chilling the dough, you create a firm consistency that is perfect for rolling and cutting out cookies, making them ideal for festive occasions like Christmas. Alternatively, you can shape the dough into a log and slice off rounds, allowing for easy and quick baking whenever you crave cookies. These cookies have a crumbly texture, but if you prefer a chewier result, you can underbake them slightly. The dough for refrigerator cookies can be customized with various flavors and toppings, making them a delightful canvas for your creativity. Whether you choose to glaze them with vanilla or orange, frost them with buttercream or caramel, or simply sprinkle them with sugar, these cookies are sure to impress.

MAKES: At least 3 dozen

TIME: 30 minutes, plus time to chill

INGREDIENTS:

• 1/2 pound (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened, plus extra for the baking sheets
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 egg
• 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for the work surface
• Pinch of salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 tablespoon milk, or as needed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and continue to beat until well blended.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder.
3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the dough, adding a little milk at a time as needed to achieve a dough that is soft enough to handle. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Shape the dough into a disk if you plan to roll the cookies or a log if you prefer to slice them. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 2 days. Alternatively, you can freeze the wrapped dough for future use.
5. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the refrigerated dough in half.
6. Lightly flour a work surface and a rolling pin. Roll out one portion of the dough to about 1/8 inch thick, adding flour as needed to prevent sticking. Cut out desired shapes using cookie cutters. Alternatively, if using the sliced method, cut slices about 1/8 inch thick from the chilled or frozen log.
7. Place the cookies on lightly greased baking sheets and bake in the preheated oven until the edges are lightly browned and the center is set, approximately 6 to 10 minutes.
8. Allow the cookies to cool for about 2 minutes on the baking sheets, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Store the cookies in a tightly covered container at room temperature for up to a day or two.

VARIATIONS:

• Lighter Rolled Cookies: For a lighter version of refrigerator cookies, add 1/2 cup more white or brown sugar and 2 eggs to the creamed butter and sugar in Step 1. Additionally, include 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda in the dry ingredients and add 1/4 cup of milk to the batter along with the flour mixture.

• Peanut Butter Cookies: In Step 1, cream together 1/2 to 3/4 cup of peanut butter with the butter and sugar. You can use smooth or crunchy peanut butter according to your preference. For added texture and flavor, mix in approximately 1/2 cup of chopped peanuts.

• Rosemary Sugar Cookies: Add a sophisticated twist to your refrigerator cookies by substituting 1 teaspoon of finely minced fresh rosemary (or 1/2 teaspoon of crushed dried rosemary) for the vanilla extract. Proceed with the recipe as usual, and halfway through baking, sprinkle the cookies with coarse or raw sugar.

• Brown Sugar and Salt Cookies: Create a delightful balance of flavors by using brown sugar instead of white sugar in the recipe. As the cookies bake, sprinkle each one with a tiny pinch of sea salt for an enticing combination of sweetness and saltiness.

These refrigerator cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed throughout the year. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, these cookies are sure to satisfy your cravings. Experiment with different flavors, toppings, and shapes to make these cookies uniquely your own. Enjoy the process of baking and the joy of sharing these delicious cookies with loved ones.