Cookies bring people together. Birthdays, holidays, and even work events – you name it. If people have gathered, there’s a good chance that cookies were involved. But if you’re responsible for preparing all of those cookies, that can feel pretty overwhelming. And if you’re short on time, perhaps you’ve asked yourself: Should I buy pre-made cookies or bake raw cookie dough?
Well, you wouldn’t be the first to ask, and you certainly won’t be the last. These are the two simplest ways to prepare a large batch of cookies, far more efficient than baking them from scratch.
But which is better? Let’s dig in.
Pre-Baked Cookies
Pre-baked cookies are the ultimate treat for instant gratification. Just grab them off the shelves at your favourite grocery stores, bakeries, and cafes, and indulge in a world of flavours and textures.
The biggest benefit of pre-made cookies is that you don’t have to purchase dozens of ingredients, spend time preparing the dough & baking in the oven, and most importantly, you won’t have a giant mess in your kitchen. Pre-baked cookies are the most convenient way to satisfy you, your family’s, and your guest’s sweet tooth.
And rather than struggle with the woes of baking, like cookies turning out too flat or undercooking them, pre-baked cookies are about as consistent as they come. Each cookie is meticulously crafted with precise measurements and the finest ingredients, for a repeatable recipe that delights every single time.
Of course, always check the expiration date before you buy to see if your cookies are fresh.
Now, some cookie manufacturers, especially some of the more popular ones in the supermarket, use preservatives and additives to extend the shelf life and maintain the texture of pre-baked cookies. These ingredients may not be as wholesome or natural as homemade cookies, so check the label before purchasing.
With pre-baked cookies, you also have limited control over the ingredients and flavours used. If you have specific dietary restrictions or preferences, finding pre-baked cookies that cater to your needs may be challenging. And if you’re shopping for your family, friends, or colleagues that have allergies, this can present issues.
Lastly, pre-made cookies will rarely be as fresh as homemade ones. They’ll have sat on the shelves for a few hours (or even days), meaning you won’t be biting into a soft, gooey centre.
Raw Cookie Dough
Raw cookie dough—the already-prepared blend of ingredients that brings cookies to life! Depending on the recipe, cookie dough is a combination of flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and flavourings. It has a soft and sticky texture, and you can find it in the frozen section of most supermarkets. You can shape it into individual cookies or use it as a base for decorative holiday cookies.
There's something magical about enjoying the raw cookie dough. Unlike their pre-baked counterparts, cookie dough has a special appeal that tickles our taste buds. The anticipation builds as you pull out your warm confections from the oven, and suddenly, the scent of freshly made cookies envelops the room, inviting you to indulge in the sweet delight that awaits.
One of the most significant advantages of raw cookie dough is the ability to customize the end result. You can add your favourite mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, nuts, or even candy pieces, to create a personalized, delicious experience.
Making raw cookie dough can be an incredibly enjoyable and interactive experience, particularly for children or those passionate about baking. It provides the perfect opportunity to bond with loved ones, creating cherished memories while getting delightfully messy in the kitchen—an experience to leave you smiling with a belly full of treats.
Raw cookie dough often contains raw eggs and flour, which can potentially harbour harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli. Consuming raw cookie dough increases the risk of foodborne illnesses. Using pasteurised eggs and heat-treated flour may reduce these risks. Some individuals may experience digestive pain or a stomach ache after consuming raw cookie dough due to its high sugar and fat content.
Pre-baked cookies and raw cookie dough have special qualities that cater to different preferences and situations. Pre-baked cookies bring convenience, consistency, and many flavours. They're ready to enjoy, saving you time and effort. However, they may contain preservatives & additives, limited customization options, and rarely will they match the freshness of freshly-baked cookies.
On the other hand, raw cookie dough is customizable & adaptable to your needs. But if you’re pressed for time, you’ll need to consider that these still require time for baking. For pre-planned celebrations, this is the way to go. For last-minute get-togethers, pre-made or catered cookies are your best bet!