Sugar cookies are a holiday staple, and for a good reason! They're delicious, easy to make, and can be decorated in a million different ways. With their sweet flavour and delicate texture, sugar cookies are a favourite among kids and adults alike. But once you've baked a batch of sugar cookies, you might wonder how to store them, so they stay fresh and delicious.

The good news is that sugar cookies are pretty resilient, and as long as you store them properly, they'll last for several weeks. Here are a few tips you can prolong the shelf life of your sugar cookies and enjoy them all season long.

1. Bake Them With Ingredients That Will Last Long

The type of ingredients is one of the many factors that can affect the shelf life of sugar cookies. Here are the main ingredients you need to consider:

• Granulated Sugar

Granulated sugar has lower moisture content and will make the cookies last longer than cookies made with brown sugar or confectioners' sugar. 

• All-Purpose Flour

All-purpose flour has a lower protein content and will make the cookies last longer than cookies made with whole wheat flour. 

• Butter

Cookies made with butter will last longer than cookies made with margarine. This is because butter contains more saturated fat, preventing the cookies from going stale quickly.

• Baking Soda 

Baking soda helps cookies last longer than baking powder by absorbing moisture from the dough. 

2. Store Them in an Airtight Container

Storing sugar cookies in an airtight container keeps them from drying out and becoming crumbly. Be sure to line the container with parchment paper or wax paper to keep the cookies from sticking.

Also, keep in mind to let the cookies cool completely before storing them. This will help them keep their shape and prevent them from getting soggy.

3. Avoid Stacking Them

Stacking cookies can cause them to become squished and misshapen. If you need to stack them, place a piece of wax paper or parchment paper between each layer of cookies.

4. Freeze Them

Wrapped tightly in freezer-safe packaging, sugar cookies will last for up to 6 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the cookies at room temperature or pop them in the oven for a few minutes to crisp them up.

5. Keep Them Out of Direct Sunlight

Sugar cookies are best stored in a cool, dry and dark place. This will prevent the cookies from turning brown or becoming stale.

6. Don't Overdecorate Them

Adding too much frosting or decor can make sugar cookies more susceptible to mould. If you plan to decorate the cookies, do so just before serving.

7. Revive Them

If your sugar cookies become hard or stale, you can try reviving them by reheating them in a low oven for a few minutes. This will help to soften the cookies and make them more palatable.

If your cookies have become soft, you can refresh them by placing them in a 350-degree oven for a few minutes. This will reactivate the baking soda and make them crisp again.

Conclusion

There are a few key tips you can follow to help prolong the shelf life of your sugar cookies. First, make sure to use the right type of ingredients. Secondly, store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Third, try to avoid stacking them on top of each other, as this can cause them to become stale more quickly. 

Fourth, freeze them. Fifth, keep them out of direct sunlight. Sixth, don't overdecorate them. Lastly, you can revive them. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy your sugar cookies for weeks to come!

Thinking of gifting someone some cookies? We have a wide selection of bespoke biscuits and personalised cookies at Molly's Bakehouse that is perfect for sending to your family or friends. They are made with the finest ingredients and are perfect for any occasion. Shop with us today!