Old‑Fashioned Brown Sugar Icebox Cookies are a nostalgic treat with a sweet, buttery flavor and soft, chewy texture. These simple no-mess cookies chill in the fridge before baking, making them perfect for prepping ahead. Whether for a family gathering, holiday, or just a cozy snack, they deliver classic cookie flavor every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft, chewy, and buttery texture
- Easy to prepare ahead of time
- Minimal ingredients and fuss
- Perfect for slicing and baking as needed
- Great for gifting or serving at parties
Ingredients

- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Instructions

- In a large bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in egg and vanilla until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into the butter mixture until a soft dough forms.
- Shape dough into a log, wrap in plastic, and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Slice chilled dough into ¼-inch thick rounds and place on prepared sheets.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden. Cool before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Chill dough overnight for firmer slices
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor
- Use light or dark brown sugar to slightly adjust sweetness
- Optional: dip half in chocolate once baked
Storage & Freezer Instructions
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days
- Freeze slices of unbaked dough for up to 1 month; bake directly from frozen
- Baked cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months and thaw at room temperature
Serving & Pairing Ideas

- Serve with a cold glass of milk
- Pair with coffee or hot chocolate
- Add a side of fresh berries for a light contrast
- Plate with other cookies for a classic dessert tray
Frequently Asked Questions
Chilling is recommended for best slices and shape, but you can bake immediately if needed.
Can I use granulated sugar instead of brown sugar?
Yes, but brown sugar adds moisture and chewy texture.
How thick should I slice the dough?
About ¼ inch thick ensures even baking and soft centers.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Yes, gently fold in chips or nuts after combining wet and dry ingredients.
Ready to Make It?
Old‑Fashioned Brown Sugar Icebox Cookies are simple, classic, and irresistible. Slice, chill, and bake to enjoy a sweet, buttery treat any time.
You Might Also Like
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- Strawberry Brownies – Chocolatey brownies with fresh strawberry flavor.
- Tiramisu Cake – Classic Italian dessert with coffee-soaked layers.
Old‑Fashioned Brown Sugar Icebox
- Total Time: 27 mins
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
Old‑Fashioned Brown Sugar Icebox Cookies are soft, chewy, and buttery. This classic cookie uses simple ingredients and chills before baking for perfect slices.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. Cream together butter and brown sugar until fluffy.
2. Beat in egg and vanilla.
3. Whisk flour, baking soda, and salt separately.
4. Gradually mix dry ingredients into butter mixture.
5. Shape dough into a log, wrap in plastic, chill 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), line baking sheets.
7. Slice dough ¼ inch thick, bake 10–12 minutes.
8. Cool before serving.
Notes
Chill dough for better slices.
Optional: add cinnamon or chocolate.
Best served fresh.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 12 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg