Vanilla Slice And Bake Cookies
Delicious vanilla slice and bake cookies with crunchy pecans and a sweet, buttery flavor—perfect for cookie lovers and great for sharing during holidays or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter; gradually add sugar, mix well using a mixer.
- Add egg and vanilla; beat well.
- Combine flour, baking soda, and salt; add to creamed mixture, beat well.
- Stir in chopped pecans.
- Shape dough into two 12-inch rolls, wrap in wax paper, and chill or freeze for at least 2 hours.
- Unwrap rolls and cut into 1/4-inch slices; place in ungreased cookie sheets.
- Bake at 350°F for 10 to 12 minutes.
- Cool on a rack.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, use unsalted butter instead of shortening or margarine. If you're looking for a nut-free option, substitute chopped pecans with chocolate chips or dried fruit. Ensure the dough is well-chilled before slicing to prevent spreading during baking. A sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking can enhance the sweetness beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
These vanilla slice and bake cookies are delightful on their own but pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For an extra treat, serve with a side of Cheesy Brussel Sprouts for a savory contrast. They can also be dressed up with a drizzle of icing or a dusting of powdered sugar for special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a resealable bag for up to three months. To enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vanilla Slice And Bake Cookies contains roughly 243 calories, with 3g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in wax paper or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. You can also freeze the unbaked rolls for up to 3 months; just slice them directly from the freezer when ready to bake.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you prefer a different nut or have allergies, you can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even seeds like sunflower or pumpkin. For a completely nut-free version, consider adding mini chocolate chips or dried cranberries for a sweet twist.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are usually done when they are lightly golden around the edges and have set in the middle. Keep an eye on them as baking times can vary depending on your oven. If you're unsure, you can check by gently pressing the top; it should spring back slightly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).