How do you store chocolate chip cookie dough?

You can store chocolate chip cookie dough in the refrigerator for a short period or in the freezer for longer-term storage. Here's how to do both:

Refrigerating Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough

Short-term storage: Refrigerating is suitable if you plan to bake the cookies within a day or two.
Method: Wrap the cookie dough tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
Shelf life: Generally, cookie dough can be refrigerated for 24-48 hours. After this time, the dough might dry out or the leavening agents may lose their effectiveness.

Long-term storage: Freezing is the best option if you want to keep the dough for weeks or months.
Methods:
- Cookie dough balls:
  1. Scoop the cookie dough into individual balls (or any desired shape).
  2. Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  3. Freeze the dough balls until solid (about 1-2 hours).
  4. Transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer bag or airtight container.
- Log of dough:
  1. Shape the cookie dough into a log.
  2. Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap, then wrap it again in aluminum foil for added protection against freezer burn.
  3. When ready to bake, thaw the log slightly and slice off the desired number of cookies.
Shelf life: Frozen cookie dough can typically last for 2-3 months in the freezer without a significant change in quality.
Thawing: Thaw frozen cookie dough in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before baking. Baking from frozen can affect the final texture and may require adjusting baking time.

Storing the dough properly ensures that your cookies will bake up perfectly when you're ready to enjoy them.