Cookies tend to change texture after storing. Here are some tips to keep these morsels at peak freshness.
• Store soft and crisp cookies in separate airtight containers. If stored together, the moisture from the soft cookies will soften the crisp cookies. Flavors can also blend during storage, so don’t store strong-flavored cookies with delicate-flavored treats.
• Arrange cookies in a container with waxed paper between layers.
• Store cookies in a cool, dry place. Cookies with a cream cheese frosting should be covered and stored in the refrigerator.
• If your crisp cookies became soft during storage, crisp them back up by heating in a 300° oven for 5 minutes.
• Cover a pan of cookie bars with foil—or put the pan in a large resealable plastic bag. If the cookie bars are made with perishable ingredients, such as cream cheese or eggs, store covered in the refrigerator. Once cut, store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• For longer storage, freeze cookies for up to 3 months.
• Wrap unfrosted cookies in plastic wrap, stack in an airtight container, seal and freeze.
• Thaw frozen wrapped cookies at room temperature before frosting and serving.