The easiest make-ahead cookie style is by far slice-and-bake icebox cookies. But the classic recipe can be basic. This version adds in toasted coconut and orange zest for a welcome twist.
Cream The Butter: Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment beat butter over high speed until light and airy, about 2 minutes. Add the sugars and beat until fluffy and the mixture looks like wet sand, about 2 more minutes. Add the egg and vanilla and mix until just combined. Reduce the speed to medium and add the flour mixture and coconut and beat until just evenly combined.
1 cup unsalted butter, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar, 1 large egg, 1 cup packed unsweetened flaked coconut, 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
Make The Cookie Log: Lay 2 large pieces of plastic wrap on a clean work surface and put half of the dough along the center of each piece. Shape the dough into 2 logs measuring about 1 1/2-inches in diameter and 10-inches long. Roll logs up in the plastic and secure them tightly. Refrigerate the logs for at least 1 hour before proceeding.TIP: The cookie dough can be made through this step and frozen up to one month before proceeding. Go ahead and let the dough sit aat a room temperature just until sliceable then proceed with the recipe (they may need to bake a few minutes longer.)
Slice And Bake: When ready to bake,heat the oven to 350°F and arrange a rack in the middle. Cut the logs into 1/4-inch slices. Roll the cookies in sugar to coat and shake off excess. Arrange on a baking sheet, leaving 1/2-inch between the cookies. Bake until set and golden on the edges, about 12 to 15 minutes. Remove to cooling racks to cool completely.
Drizzle With Chocolate: When the cookies are cool, melt the chocolate in a small pan over medium-low heat until smooth. Dip half of each cookie into the chocolate, scrape off the excess and set on wax paper on a plate. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to set up before serving.TIP: The cookies will last a week when stored at room temperature in an airtight container.