Cookie Longevity: Refrigeration, Freezing & Reheating Secrets!

You've just received a fresh batch of Crushin' on Cookies, and while we know it's tempting to devour them all in one sitting (we get it!), sometimes you want to savor that deliciousness for a little longer. Or, maybe you're planning ahead for a special event!

Good news: our cookies are designed for maximum deliciousness, and while they don't need refrigeration to be shipped to your door, a little chill can significantly extend their life and keep them tasting divine. Plus, a warm cookie straight from the oven (or microwave!) is pure bliss!

Here's our simple guide to refrigerating, freezing, and reheating your favorite Crushin' on Cookies treats.

First Things First: No Refrigeration Needed for Shipping!

Just a quick note: You might be wondering about refrigeration during shipping. Rest assured, our cookies are baked and packaged to arrive perfectly fresh at room temperature. You don't need to worry about them needing a cold journey! The tips below are for extending their life after they've arrived and you're ready to store them.

Extend the Freshness: Refrigeration Tips

Refrigeration is perfect for extending the life of your cookies by a few extra days, especially if they have a softer, chewier texture or if you live in a very warm climate.

How to Refrigerate Your Baked Cookies:

• Cool Completely: This is the most crucial step! Ensure your cookies are 100% cool before storing. Any residual warmth will create condensation inside your container, leading to soggy cookies.
• Airtight is Right: Place your completely cooled cookies in an airtight container. Glass or high-quality plastic containers work best.
• Layer Smartly: If stacking, place parchment paper or wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Shelf Life in the Fridge: Properly refrigerated cookies can stay fresh for up to 1 week.

Long-Term Love: Freezing Your Baked Cookies

Freezing is your best friend for long-term storage, allowing you to enjoy that Crushin' on Cookies goodness weeks or even months down the line!

How to Freeze Your Baked Cookies:

• Cool Completely: Again, ensure cookies are fully cooled before freezing.
• Flash Freeze (Optional, but Recommended for Best Results): Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pop the baking sheet into the freezer for 15-30 minutes, until the cookies are firm. This prevents them from sticking together when you transfer them.
• Wrap & Store Airtight: Once firm, individually wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap. This extra layer of protection guards against freezer burn. Place the wrapped cookies into a heavy-duty freezer-safe bag or an airtight freezer container. Remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing.
• Label & Date: Don't forget to label your container or bag with the cookie type and the date you froze them.
• Shelf Life in the Freezer: Properly frozen cookies can maintain their quality for up to 3 months. Beyond that, they're still safe to eat but might start to lose some flavor or texture.

The Grand Finale: Reheating Your Cookies

There's nothing quite like a warm, gooey cookie, even if it started its journey from the fridge or freezer!

From the Refrigerator:

• Oven Method (Best for crispness): Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and edges are slightly crisp.
• Microwave Method (Quick & Chewy): Microwave individual cookies for 10-20 seconds (start with less and add more if needed). Be careful not to overheat, or they can become tough.

From the Freezer:

• Thawing First (Recommended): For best results, transfer frozen cookies to the refrigerator overnight to thaw slowly. Once thawed, you can reheat them using the refrigerator methods above.
• Direct from Freezer (For a quick fix):
  • Oven Method: Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Place frozen cookies on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
  • Microwave Method (Caution!): This can sometimes lead to uneven heating. Microwave individual cookies on low power for 30-60 seconds, checking every 10-15 seconds. It might be better for softer cookies.

Enjoy Every Last Bite!

We want every single Crushin' on Cookies experience to be absolutely perfect, whether it's right out of the box or after a little time in the chill chest. With these simple tips, you can extend the life of your favorite treats and always have a delightful indulgence ready when the craving strikes.