Cookies tend to switch texture upon storing soft cookies get hard and crisp cookies get soft. Here are a few tips to keep them stored at peak freshness.

Allow cookies and bars to cool completely before storing. Cut crisp bar cookies while slightly warm allow icing on cookies to completely dry before storing

Store soft and crisp cookies in separate airtight containers. If stored together, the moisture from the soft cookies will soften the crisp cookies and they will lose their crunchy texture

Flavors can also blend during storage, so don’t store strong flavored cookies with delicate flavored cookies

Arrange cookies in a container with a waxed paper between each layer

Store cookies in a cool, dry place. Cookies, frosted with a cream cheese frosting, should be covered and stored in the refrigerator

If your crisp cookies became soft during storage, crisp them up by heating in a 300 degree oven for 5 minutes

Cover a pan of uncut brownies and bars with foil or put the pan in a large resealable plastic bag. If the bars are made with perishable ingredients, such as cream cheese, store covered in the refrigerator. Once the bars are cut, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator

For longer storage, place in freezer bags, and freeze for up to 3 months

Wrap unfrosted cookies in plastic wrap, stack in an airtight container, seal and freeze

Freeze a pan of uncut bars in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Or wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and stack in an airtight container

Thaw wrapped cookies and bars at room temperature before frosting and serving