When it comes to baking, many of us have a love-hate relationship with the idea of making dough from scratch. It’s messy, time-consuming, and sometimes just plain frustrating! But what if you could skip all that fuss and still enjoy delicious, fresh-baked treats? Enter the world of refrigerator cookies!
These clever recipes use simple ingredients and minimal prep work to create a wide range of tasty treats that can be stored in your fridge for up to 5 days. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack to fuel your busy day or a sweet treat to satisfy your cravings, we’ve got you covered with these 18 mouthwatering refrigerator cookie recipes perfect for any occasion.
Classic Chocolate Chip Refrigerator Cookies
Classic Chocolate Chip Refrigerator Cookies
These chewy cookies are a staple for any occasion, requiring minimal effort but maximum flavor. With just a few ingredients and some simple prep work, you’ll be enjoying fresh-baked goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours before baking.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
Vanilla Almond Slice-and-Bake Cookies
A classic cookie recipe with a twist, these Vanilla Almond Slice-and-Bake Cookies are easy to make and perfect for snacking. With the convenience of slice-and-bake cookies, you can have a fresh batch in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Fold in sliced almonds.
6. Roll dough into 1/2-inch thick slices. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Lemon Zest Refrigerator Shortbread
Elevate your shortbread game with the addition of lemon zest, creating a refreshing and flavorful treat that’s perfect for snacking or serving at parties. This recipe is designed to be easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup (50g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Stir in lemon zest and juice.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 3 days.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Peanut Butter and Jelly Thumbprint Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are packed with peanut butter and jelly goodness, making them a delightful treat for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon jelly (your favorite flavor!)
– Optional: sprinkles or chopped nuts for decoration
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and butter until smooth. Add sugar and mix until combined.
4. Beat in the egg until well incorporated.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a dough forms.
6. Scoop 1-inch balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Use your thumb or a spoon to make an indentation in the center of each cookie. Fill with jelly.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Double Chocolate Mint Refrigerator Cookies
A refreshing twist on classic cookies, these Double Chocolate Mint Refrigerator Cookies combine the richness of dark chocolate with the cooling zing of peppermint. Perfect for a sweet treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup dark cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies (about 6-8 candies)
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat your refrigerator to the coldest setting.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Stir in crushed peppermint candies and chocolate chips.
7. Press dough into an 8×8 inch baking dish lined with parchment paper.
8. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None, as these cookies are chilled in the refrigerator!
Cinnamon Sugar Swirl Cookies
Warm up with these sweet and spicy cookies featuring a delicious cinnamon sugar swirl throughout. Perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Cinnamon sugar mixture (see below)
Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and cinnamon.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until combined.
5. Divide dough in half. Roll out each half into a 1/4-inch thick sheet.
6. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over one sheet. Place the other sheet on top.
7. Roll up tightly, then slice into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Oatmeal Raisin Refrigerator Cookies
These chewy cookies are perfect for a quick snack or dessert. With no need to bake, they’re also easy on the schedule!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together vanilla extract and softened butter until smooth.
3. Add eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, whisking well after each addition.
4. Stir in raisins.
5. Combine wet and dry ingredients; mix until just combined.
6. Press dough into a lined or greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None! Simply remove from the refrigerator when ready to serve, cut into bars, and enjoy.
Coconut Lime Refrigerator Cookies
A sweet and tangy twist on classic cookies, these Coconut Lime Refrigerator Cookies are perfect for a refreshing treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the refrigerator to its chilliest setting (just kidding!).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and coconut.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream together sugar and butter until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in egg and lime juice until well combined.
5. Gradually mix in flour-coconut mixture and vanilla extract.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! These cookies are meant to be enjoyed straight from the refrigerator, where they’ll keep for up to 3 days.
Pistachio and White Chocolate Slice-and-Bake
Treat your friends and family to a sweet surprise with this easy-to-make slice-and-bake cookie recipe, featuring the perfect combination of crunchy pistachios and creamy white chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in pistachios and white chocolate chips.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Maple Pecan Refrigerator Cookies
These chewy cookies are a perfect blend of sweet and nutty, with the warmth of maple syrup and the crunch of pecans. With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a batch ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add maple syrup and mix until combined.
3. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add flour, pecans, and salt. Mix until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 days. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Espresso Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
A rich and decadent cookie that combines the bold flavors of espresso and dark chocolate with a sweet and crinkly exterior.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
6. Melt chocolate chips in microwave-safe bowl, then stir in espresso powder.
7. Fold melted chocolate mixture into dough until well combined.
8. Roll out dough on floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
9. Cut into desired shape and place on prepared baking sheet.
10. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are set.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Gingerbread Spice Refrigerator Cookies
These soft-baked cookies are infused with the cozy flavors of gingerbread spice and perfect for a quick treat or snack. With no baking required, they’re also an ideal option for busy days when you need something sweet in a hurry.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons molasses
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Add the softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Fold in the molasses until well combined.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 days.
5. When ready, scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a plate or tray.
Cooking Time:
– None! These cookies are designed to be refrigerated and served soft-baked.
Cherry Almond Shortbread Slices
These buttery shortbread slices are infused with the sweet and tangy flavor of cherries and the crunch of almonds, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add flour and salt; mix until combined.
3. Stir in almonds and cherries.
4. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., rectangles or squares).
5. Place slices on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Brown Butter Toffee Refrigerator Cookies
These chewy cookies are infused with the deep flavor of brown butter and topped with a crunchy toffee crunch, making them a perfect treat for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped toffee bits (such as Heath or Skor)
– 1 tablespoon sea salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Cook until browned, stirring frequently, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in sugars until dissolved. Let cool slightly.
4. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Add to the cooled butter mixture and mix until just combined.
5. Stir in vanilla extract and toffee bits.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Remove from oven and sprinkle with sea salt.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Raspberry Almond Thumbprint Cookies
These sweet and tangy cookies are perfect for a quick snack or dessert. The combination of fresh raspberries and crunchy almonds creates a delicious flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp almond extract
– 1 cup fresh raspberries, chopped
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and almond extract.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture and mix until just combined.
5. Stir in chopped raspberries and sliced almonds.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Snickerdoodle Refrigerator Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are a game-changer for any cookie lover. With no baking required, these Snickerdoodle Refrigerator Cookies are perfect for hot summer days or when you just can’t muster the energy to fire up the oven.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup crushed cinnamon sugar (see note)
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cream of tartar, and salt.
2. In a large bowl, combine butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and crushed cinnamon sugar. Beat until smooth.
3. Add the egg and mix until combined.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture and mix until a dough forms.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
6. When ready to serve, scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a plate or tray. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time:
None! These cookies are best served straight from the refrigerator.
Orange Cardamom Slice-and-Bake Cookies
Elevate your baking game with these unique Orange Cardamom Slice-and-Bake Cookies that combine the brightness of orange zest and the warmth of cardamom. Perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 teaspoons grated orange zest
– 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add orange zest and cardamom; mix well.
3. Gradually add flour and salt; mix until just combined.
4. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Refrigerator Cookies
These cookies are a perfect combination of crispy edges and chewy centers, infused with the deep flavor of dark chocolate and the savory touch of sea salt.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and sea salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
5. Stir in dark chocolate chips.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
7. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt before refrigerating for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None (these cookies are best served chilled)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the world of delicious refrigerator cookies! This article features 18 mouth-watering recipes perfect for any occasion. From classic chocolate chip and peanut butter and jelly, to unique flavor combinations like lemon zest and double chocolate mint, there’s something for everyone. These slice-and-bake treats are easy to make and require minimal effort, making them a great option for busy bakers. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat for a party or just want a quick snack, these refrigerator cookies are sure to satisfy your cravings.
