Why and How to Freeze cookie Dough
Looking to enjoy freshly baked cookies at a moment's notice? Freezing cookie dough could be your ultimate time-saving and delicious solution. For busy individuals who crave the warm, gooey comfort of homemade cookies without the extensive prep time, freezing cookie dough is the perfect choice!
In this article, we dive into the ‘how’ and ‘why’ behind freezing cookie dough. From the step-by-step process of freezing the dough to the science behind maintaining its flavor and texture, we’ll uncover the secrets to successfully freezing cookie dough for future use. Whether you’re a baking enthusiast with a desire to plan ahead or simply a fan of effortlessly indulging in warm cookies, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to elevate your baking game and satisfy your cookie cravings with the ultimate convenience and taste – all thanks to the frozen cookie dough.
The Importance of Freezing Cookie Dough
Our founder, Erica Davis (aka ReeRee) started making and freezing cookie dough when she was still in college, later making it at home for her family so they could have a treat at any time or for that late-night sweet craving to have with a glass of wine. Erica believes that freezing cookie dough is a game-changer for anyone who loves freshly baked cookies but doesn't always have the time to prepare them from scratch. It allows you to enjoy the luxury of homemade cookies without the immediate commitment to baking an entire batch. By freezing the dough, you can have the freedom to bake a few cookies at a time, whenever the craving strikes. This not only saves time but also reduces food waste, making it a practical and environmentally friendly choice.
Beyond the convenience factor, freezing cookie dough also helps preserve the flavor and texture of the cookies. By freezing the dough at the right stage, you can lock in the freshness and prevent the ingredients from degrading over time. This means that when you finally bake the cookies, they will taste just as delicious as if you had made the dough from scratch.
Freezing cookie dough also allows for better planning and organization in the kitchen. Whether you want to prepare a variety of cookie flavors in advance for a special occasion or simply stock up on ready-to-bake treats for unexpected guests, having frozen cookie dough on hand can make life a whole lot easier. It's a proactive approach to baking that ensures you're always prepared for impromptu cookie cravings.
Benefits of Freezing Cookie Dough
The benefits of freezing cookie dough extend beyond just convenience and practicality. By freezing the dough, you can also control portion sizes and tailor your baking to suit your needs. Whether you want to bake a small batch for yourself or a larger batch for a gathering, having frozen cookie dough allows you to customize your baking output without any hassle.
Another advantage of freezing cookie dough is the ability to experiment with different flavors and variations. You can prepare multiple types of cookie dough, freeze them separately, and have a diverse selection of cookies at your fingertips. This opens up endless possibilities for creativity and indulgence, allowing you to satisfy a range of preferences without committing to a single cookie flavor.
Furthermore, freezing cookie dough can be a lifesaver during busy periods or unexpected events. Whether you're juggling work, family, or other commitments, having frozen cookie dough in the freezer means you can still treat yourself and others to freshly baked cookies without adding extra stress to your plate. It's a thoughtful and practical way to bring joy and comfort to your loved ones, even when time is limited. You can also use frozen cookie dough to customize a treat for any occasion with an addition of some simple decorations that are readily available in the store for purchase. See some of our holiday cookie recipes here made with ReeRee's Frozen Cookie Dough.
Does freezing cookie dough make it better?
Freezing both purchased and homemade cookie dough can enhance its flavor and texture. When cookie dough is frozen, the fats and sugars in the dough have more time to meld together, resulting in a richer and more complex flavor. Additionally, freezing the dough helps to solidify the fats, which can prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking, resulting in a thicker and chewier texture. Thawing frozen cookie dough before baking is generally recommended as it allows the dough to soften, making it easier to work with and ensuring that the cookies bake evenly. However, some bakers have reported success with baking the dough directly from the freezer, resulting in slightly thicker and more chewy cookies. Ultimately, the decision to thaw frozen cookie dough before baking depends on personal preference and the desired texture of the cookies.
Freezing cookie dough also allows for convenient meal planning. By preparing and freezing cookie dough in advance, you can easily incorporate freshly baked cookies into your weekly meal plan. Simply thaw the dough and bake a batch whenever you need a sweet treat or want to surprise your family with a homemade dessert. It's a time-saving strategy that ensures you always have a delicious and satisfying option on hand.
Scooping cookie dough onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet is one of the techniques that can be used to freeze cookie dough
How to Freeze Cookie Dough and Baked Cookies
Freezing Cookie Dough Before Baking:
Preparation: After preparing the cookie dough, portion it into individual cookie-sized rounds using a cookie scoop or spoon.
Wrapping: Place the cookie dough rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are not touching each other. Then, transfer the baking sheet to the freezer for about an hour or until the dough rounds are firm.
Storage: Once the dough rounds are firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label the container with the date and type of cookie dough for easy reference.
Thawing: When you're ready to bake, there's no need to thaw the frozen cookie dough. Simply place the frozen dough rounds on a baking sheet and add a couple of minutes to the baking time to compensate for the frozen state.
Freezing Baked Cookies:
Cooling: Allow the freshly baked cookies to cool completely at room temperature.
Packaging: Once cooled, arrange the cookies in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer bag, placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Storage: Label the container with the date and type of cookies before placing it in the freezer.
Thawing: To thaw frozen baked cookies, simply transfer them to a plate and let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before enjoying.
By following these simple steps, you can freeze both cookie dough and baked cookies effectively, ensuring that you always have delicious treats on hand whenever you need them.
How to Properly Prepare Cookie Dough for Freezing
Preparing cookie dough for freezing requires a few essential steps to ensure optimal results. First and foremost, it's important to choose a cookie dough recipe that is suitable for freezing. While most cookie doughs can be frozen, certain types, such as meringue-based doughs, may not yield the best outcomes after freezing. Opt for sturdy, classic cookie dough recipes that are well-suited for the freezing process.
Once you have the right cookie dough recipe (try our tested recipes for freezing), prepare the dough as instructed, making sure to follow the recipe closely to achieve the desired consistency and flavor. After the dough is fully mixed and ready for shaping, portion it into individual cookie-sized rounds or portions. This step is crucial for convenient thawing and baking later on, as it allows you to easily access the amount of dough you need without having to defrost the entire batch.
Next, you will need to choose how to package and freeze the dough.
The Best Methods for Freezing Cookie Dough
When it comes to freezing cookie dough, there are several methods you can choose from, each with its own advantages.
One popular approach is to flash-freeze individual portions of cookie dough on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. This method allows the dough to freeze quickly and prevents the portions from sticking together, making it easier to thaw and bake only as many cookies as needed.
Alternatively, you can roll the cookie dough into a log or cylinder shape, wrap it in parchment paper or plastic wrap, and then freeze it. This method works well for slice-and-bake cookies, as the frozen log can be sliced into individual rounds for baking without the need for thawing. It's a convenient way to have pre-portioned cookie dough ready to go whenever the craving strikes.
For scooped cookie dough, another effective method is to scoop the dough into individual portions using a cookie scoop or spoon, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and then freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer the dough portions to a freezer-safe container for long-term storage. This method is ideal for cookies that require shaping or molding before baking, as it preserves the intended texture and appearance of the cookies.
Regardless of the method you choose, the key is to ensure that the cookie dough is well protected from air and moisture to maintain its quality during freezing. By following the proper freezing methods, you can set yourself up for success when it's time to bake the frozen cookie dough.
Tips for Thawing and Baking Frozen Cookie Dough
Thawing and baking frozen cookie dough is a straightforward process, but there are some tips and tricks to ensure the best results. When you're ready to bake the frozen cookie dough, remove the desired portion from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. This gradual thawing helps the dough retain its structure and prevents any potential texture changes.
If you're short on time and need to thaw the cookie dough more quickly, you can place the frozen portions on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them sit at room temperature for a shorter period. Keep an eye on the dough as it thaws to ensure that it reaches the ideal consistency for shaping and baking. Once the dough is thawed, proceed to preheat the oven and bake the cookies according to the original recipe's instructions.
When baking frozen cookie dough, it's important to monitor the cookies closely during the baking process, as the timing may vary slightly from fresh dough. We have done that work for you on ReeRee's Frozen Cookie Doughs with recommended bake times for each flavor listed on the package. However, it is always a good idea to keep an eye on the cookies as they bake and adjust the baking time as needed (appliances are not uniform!) to achieve the perfect golden-brown color and texture. With proper thawing and baking, the frozen cookie dough will transform into delectable, freshly baked cookies that are ready to be enjoyed.
Freezing Cookie Dough FAQs
Can all types of cookie dough be frozen? Yes, most types of cookie dough can be frozen, including chocolate chip, sugar, oatmeal, and peanut butter cookie dough. However, delicate doughs that rely on aeration or stability from whipped egg whites or meringue may not freeze as successfully.
How long can cookie dough be frozen? Properly stored cookie dough can be frozen for up to 12-18 months without significant changes in quality. It's best to label the packages with the freezing date and use the oldest batches first for optimal freshness. Read our blog post How Long Can You Store Cookie Dough For for more details on how to store all types of cookie doughs, including frozen and refrigerated doughs.
Can frozen cookie dough be baked directly from the freezer? Yes, it is possible to bake cookie dough directly from the freezer (also from ReeRee's Frozen Cookie Dough) and get amazing results. ReeRee herself did it for decades at home for her friends and family before bringing her product to the frozen aisle. So this is time tested!
Can you freeze cookie dough after it has been baked? While freezing baked cookies is an option to have ready-to-serve cookie on hand, freezing the raw cookie dough allows for fresher-tasting cookies when baked, as the dough hasn't gone through the baking process yet.
Recipes and Variations for Freezable Cookie Dough
Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies: This timeless favorite can be prepared in advance and frozen for future baking. The combination of buttery dough and rich chocolate chips yields irresistible cookies every time. At ReeRee’s we use 5 different kinds of chocolate in our Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough recipe to give it a unique, gourmet taste!
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies: The comforting flavors of oats and gourmet raisins can be preserved by freezing the dough, allowing you to enjoy wholesome, homemade cookies whenever the mood strikes. Here at ReeRee’s, we elevate an Oatmeal Raisin cookie experience by using a mix of raisins: black raisins, currants, golden, and green raisins, that create a medley so delightful, you owe it to your taste buds to give our recipe a try, or get it ready to bake from the frozen aisle at a store near you!
Peanut Butter Cookies: With their distinctive nutty flavor and satisfying texture, peanut butter cookies are a delightful treat that can be made ahead and frozen for effortless enjoyment. For ReeRee’s Peanut Butter cookies, we use freshly ground roasted peanuts and pure honey to give these cookies the truest taste and texture, making them a perfect blend of salty and sweet. Check out our Peanut Butter Cookie Dough product page, and our product locator to purchase our ready-to-bake dough.
Sugar Cookies: This classic versatile cookie is a universal crowd pleaser, and can be used as a base for all kinds of decorating and recipes. ReeRee’s Sugar Cookie Dough recipe is everything a sugar cookie should be, really emphasizing the vanilla bean flavor with a hint of almond extract. It offers an airy, melt-in-you-mouth experience that’s sure to become a freezer staple.
ReeRee’s Frozen Cookie Dough Flavors
Storing Frozen Cookie Dough Long-Term
To ensure the long-term quality of frozen cookie dough, it's important to store it properly. Keep the frozen cookie dough in a well-sealed container or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn and maintain freshness. Additionally, try to use the frozen cookie dough within 12-18 months for the best results, longer storage may affect the texture and flavor of the dough.
Tools and Equipment for Freezing Cookie Dough
When it comes to freezing cookie dough, having the right tools and equipment can make the process much more seamless. Invest in quality freezer-safe containers, plastic wrap, and parchment paper to protect the dough during freezing. Airtight containers or resealable freezer bags are essential for maintaining the integrity of the dough and preventing any unwanted odors or flavors from seeping in.
In conclusion, freezing cookie dough is a versatile and practical solution for enjoying freshly baked cookies on your terms. In fact, this is how our founder, Erica, got into cookie dough business. She started freezing her homemade cookie dough. Read ReeRee’s story here!
Store-Bought Cookie Dough Solutions
Don’t have time to make and freeze your cookie dough? Not many do! No worries, there are some convenient and high-quality solutions for you at grocery stores. You can usually find ready-to-bake cookie dough in the refrigerated aisle (you know, those blue and yellow logs), but be aware that most of those doughs do not use all real ingredients like you would at home (i.e. most don’t use butter, and contain some overly processed and bioengineered ingredients, artificial flavors, preservatives, etc.), which certainly will translate into those cookies not tasting homemade. Here at ReeRee’s we use Erica’s (aka ReeRee's) original homemade recipes made with only real ingredients, freeze it, and now we ship it in resealable pouches to a grocery store’s frozen aisle near you! If you are looking for a convenient solution to satisfy your homemade cookie craving, try any of ReeRee’s Frozen Cookie Dough Flavors, and stock up on them so you can bake it any time that cravings strike!
