How to Freeze Cookie Dough and Bake from Frozen

Having frozen cookie dough always on hand is the best way to have fresh cookies anytime you want. Learn how to freeze cookie dough and bake from frozen with these tips!

I love keeping frozen cookie dough on hand at all times because nothing beats a freshly baked cookie recipe to satisfy cookie cravings or to serve unexpected guests.

Whether it’s a last minute school treat, an emergency dessert or you have a friend stopping over, learning how to freeze cookie dough and bake from frozen means you always have freshly baked homemade cookies on hand!

Yes! Freezing cookie dough is so easy and usually any drop-style cookie freezes well. This includes:

Cookie dough being scooped with a cookie scoop.

Freezing cookie dough is simple just follow these steps.

Assemble cookie dough according to recipe directions. Follow any recommended chilling time.
Scoop dough into cookie balls and place in a single layer on a parchment lined baking sheet. Ensure cookie dough balls are not touching.
Flash freeze cookie dough until solid.
Transfer frozen cookie dough balls into a plastic storage bag, label bag and keep frozen for 2-3 months.

How to Bake Cookies From Frozen Dough

While you can thaw cookie dough overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature, I prefer to bake from frozen as there is no pre-planning involved!

Preheat oven per cookie recipe instructions or at a slightly decreased temperature.
Bake from frozen on a parchment-lined baking sheet increasing the cookie baking time by a few minutes to ensure the edges are crisp.

Each cookie recipe will bake a little differently, I recommend baking just one cookie dough ball to determine the best method that works for you!

How to Freeze Baked Cookies

If you would rather freeze baked cookies, it’s also easy to do. Freeze baked cookies unfrosted and without any glaze.

I love to freeze my Christmas sugar cookies stacked between layers of parchment paper to prevent sticking. Defrost at room temperature then proceed with icing and decorating as desired.

To reheat frozen cookies that have been thawed, just place in the oven for a few minutes for that freshly baked soft cookie texture.

FAQs

How long can I store frozen cookie dough?

Most cookie dough balls can be stored frozen for up to 2-3 months. Remember to store frozen cookie dough in an airtight container that has been sealed and label it with the date.

For an extra measure to prevent freezer burn, you can wrap each piece of cookie dough in plastic wrap but I rarely do that.

Do I need to thaw frozen cookie dough before baking?

No, you can bake most cookie dough from frozen and increase the baking time by a few minutes. Dough that has been shaped into a log you will need to thaw for about 30 minutes before slicing and baking. For dough that has been frozen in a disc, thaw overnight in the fridge.

What is the best temperature to bake frozen cookie dough?

You can either bake frozen cookie dough at the temperature listed in the recipe or lower the temp about 15-20°F. Lowering the temp will allow the frozen cookie dough to thaw while baking without impacting the edges of the cookie.

Should I chill cookie dough before freezing?

Yes. If a cookie calls for chilling the dough, do so before baking. After the dough is chilled, scoop cookie dough and proceed with freezing.

Cookie dough in freezer bag that is labeled.

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