Storing Undecorated Sugar Cookies

Last Updated on September 24, 2022

Simple yet delicious, sugar cookies are one of the most popular types of cookies. Properly storing undecorated sugar cookies is important so they stay as fresh for as long as possible without drying out. These tasty cookies are best enjoyed when they are fresh and chewy.

The great thing about sugar cookies is that you can make them in many different ways. You can make them drop style or use a rolling pin and cookie cutters for cut-out style. You can also decorate them with sprinkles, royal icing, buttercream or just leave them plain, as they will taste amazing no matter what.

How Long Do Undecorated Sugar Cookies Last?

When properly stored, undecorated sugar cookies can last for around one week at room temperature. They can also last in the fridge for up to two weeks, though they may start to dry out after one week.

You can also store your undecorated sugar cookies in the freezer for about three months. This is a great option to make them ahead of time and keep them tasting fresh.

Storing Undecorated Sugar Cookies

When storing undecorated sugar cookies, it is important that you properly store them to keep them soft and chewy. For best results, store them in an airtight container, cookie jar, or Ziploc bag. If you leave them out in the air, they will dry out quickly and become stale or hard.

When storing your cookies in the fridge, either a Ziploc bag or an airtight container will work best. Be sure to store them away from any strong-smelling foods such as onions or fish as they can absorb the odors of surrounding foods.

Before storing your cookies, it is important to let them fully cool first. If you put a hot cookie in a storage container or bag, it will cause condensation to build up which can lead to soggy tops on the cookies.

How to freeze undecorated sugar cookies

When freezing your cookies, it is best to place them in a Ziploc bag and separate the layers of cookies with sheets of parchment paper. You can also store them in an airtight container in the freezer as well. When ready to eat, thaw your frozen cookies at room temperature for around one hour or in the fridge for a few hours.

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Storing Sugar Cookie Dough

You can also store your sugar dough before baking it. Sugar cookie dough will last in the fridge for around two to three days in an airtight container or Ziploc bag.

You can also freeze your sugar cookie dough as well. To do so, roll the cookie dough into a ball and flatten it slightly. Then, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in the freezer. Frozen cookie dough will last for around three months in the freezer.

When ready to bake, take your frozen dough out of the freezer and preheat the oven. Bake the frozen cookie dough for one to two minutes longer for delicious results.

Storing Decorated Sugar Cookies

Many people enjoy decorating sugar cookies for holidays and special events. Both buttercream frosting and royal icing work great for decorating sugar cookies.

For sugar cookies decorated with buttercream frosting, you can store them at room temperature for two to four days in an airtight container. You can also store buttercream-frosted sugar cookies in the fridge for around one week in an airtight container. In addition, you can also freeze them in an airtight container for up to three months.

Sugar cookies with royal icing can last for up to two weeks at room temperature in an airtight container, but are best if eaten within one week. They can also last in the fridge for around two weeks or in the freezer for around three months in an airtight container. Icing acts as a barrier to keep moisture in the cookie and royal icing will last longer than buttercream frosting.

Can you leave sugar cookies out overnight?

In most cases, you don’t want to leave undecorated sugar cookies out overnight uncovered because they can dry out a bit. However, if you decorated your cookies with royal icing, it may be beneficial to leave them out overnight uncovered to let the icing fully dry. The icing will help the sugar cookies from drying out.

How to tell if your sugar cookies are no longer good

If your sugar cookies have any mold on them, you need to throw them out. In addition, if they have an off smell, taste or appearance, it is best to just throw them out.

If your sugar cookies become stale, they are generally still safe to eat, they just won’t taste as good. You can use them as a topping in ice cream or milkshakes if they become stale.

Delicious Sugar Cookies

Sugar cookies are great cookies to make for holidays or any special events. They are great whether they are undecorated or topped with buttercream frosting or royal icing. Though best eaten within a few days, they can last at room temperature for up to a week in an airtight container.

Do you have any questions regarding undecorated sugar cookies? If so, please ask your sugar cookie storage questions in the comment section below.

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