Peppermint Swirl Cookies

The Peppermint Swirl Cookies bring a festive spirit to any occasion, making them perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply enjoying at home. With their vibrant red and white swirls and delightful peppermint flavor, these cookies not only look stunning but also taste amazing. They are easy to make and are sure to impress your family and friends during the holiday season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Appearance: The striking red and white swirls make these cookies an eye-catching treat for any holiday table.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of peppermint extract and buttery dough creates a rich, refreshing taste that everyone loves.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can successfully create these beautiful cookies.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for Christmas, New Year’s, or any winter celebration, these cookies fit right in with a variety of festive occasions.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the dough in advance and chill it, making it convenient for busy bakers.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience. Having everything ready will streamline your process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Plastic wrap
• Rolling pin
• Sharp knife
• Baking sheets

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Ensures the butter and sugar are creamed perfectly for a light texture.
• Plastic wrap: Helps you chill the dough effectively to maintain shape during slicing.
• Sharp knife: Necessary for cleanly slicing the dough log into beautiful rounds without squishing.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

• 2 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract

For Coloring and Coating

• Red gel food coloring
• 1/4 cup coarse sugar or crushed peppermint candies for coating

this recipe

How to Make Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set this mixture aside.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg followed by both extracts until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined; be careful not to overmix as you want a soft dough.

Step 4: Color the Dough

Divide your dough in half. Keep one half plain while adding red gel food coloring to the second half. Mix until you achieve an even color throughout.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Wrap each portion of dough separately in plastic wrap. Chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for shaping.

Step 6: Roll Out the Dough

Once chilled, on a lightly floured surface, roll out each dough portion into rectangles measuring about 10×12 inches and 1/4 inch thick.

Step 7: Layer the Doughs

Place the red rectangle on top of the plain rectangle. Gently press them together to form one layered sheet of dough.

Step 8: Roll Into a Log

From one long side, tightly roll up the layered dough into a log shape. Press gently as you roll to eliminate air pockets.

Step 9: Chill Again

Wrap your log tightly in plastic wrap again. Chill it in the refrigerator for at least two hours until firm.

Step 10: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 11: Coat with Sugar

Remove the dough log from refrigeration. If desired, brush it lightly with water or whisked egg white before rolling it in coarse sugar or crushed peppermint candies.

Step 12: Slice Cookies

Using a sharp knife, slice your log into rounds about 1/4 inch thick. Place them on prepared baking sheets about an inch apart.

Step 13: Bake Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for about 8 to 10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden—be careful not to overbake!

Step 14: Cool Down

Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious Peppermint Swirl Cookies!

How to Serve Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Serving Peppermint Swirl Cookies can add a festive touch to any gathering. Whether for a holiday party or a cozy family night, these colorful cookies are sure to impress. Here are some delightful ways to present them.

On a Festive Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter adorned with holiday-themed decorations. This makes for an eye-catching centerpiece.

With Hot Chocolate

• Serve alongside rich hot chocolate for a cozy treat. The peppermint flavor complements the warm drink perfectly.

Gift-Wrapped

• Package cookies in festive boxes or bags tied with ribbons. They make wonderful homemade gifts for friends and family during the holidays.

As Party Favors

• Place individual cookies in clear bags with tags at your next event. Guests will love taking home this sweet reminder of your gathering.

During Cookie Exchanges

• Bring your Peppermint Swirl Cookies to cookie exchange parties. Their unique appearance will stand out among traditional options.

How to Perfect Peppermint Swirl Cookies

To ensure your Peppermint Swirl Cookies turn out beautifully every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Chill the Dough: Proper chilling prevents colors from bleeding and helps maintain sharp swirls.
• Use Quality Extracts: High-quality peppermint extract enhances flavor, making your cookies more aromatic and delicious.
• Roll Evenly: Aim for uniform thickness when rolling out the dough to ensure even baking and consistent swirl definition.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be lightly golden at the edges but soft in the center for best texture.
• Experiment with Colors: Get creative by adding different food colorings or patterns to customize your cookies for various occasions.

Best Side Dishes for Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Pairing side dishes with Peppermint Swirl Cookies can elevate your dessert table. Here are some complementary options that enhance the overall experience.

1. Peppermint Bark: A classic holiday treat made with layers of chocolate and crushed peppermint, perfect alongside cookies.
2. Chocolate Fondue: Set up a fondue station where guests can dip fruits or pretzels, creating a fun interactive dessert experience.
3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can balance the sweetness of the cookies, offering a light contrast.
4. Cheese Platter: Include a variety of cheeses that pair well with sweets; creamy brie or tangy goat cheese can be delightful choices.
5. Eggnog: This rich, spiced drink pairs beautifully with peppermint flavors, making it ideal for festive gatherings.
6. Spiced Tea: Serve warm spiced tea as an aromatic beverage option that complements the wintery vibe of peppermint desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Peppermint Swirl Cookies can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results.

• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too long can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a softer cookie.
• Skipping Chilling Time: Not chilling the dough may cause it to spread too much during baking. Always chill as instructed to maintain shape and swirls.
• Uneven Dough Layers: If the layers of dough are not evenly rolled, your swirls will be mismatched. Use a ruler or measuring tool to ensure uniform thickness.
• Improper Baking Time: Overbaking will lead to dry cookies. Keep an eye on them and remove them once the edges are lightly golden.
• Not Using Parchment Paper: Baking directly on the pan can cause cookies to stick. Always line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy removal.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Peppermint Swirl Cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 1 week when stored properly.

Freezing Peppermint Swirl Cookies

• You can freeze unbaked cookie logs wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
• Baked cookies can also be frozen; place them in a single layer in airtight containers or freezer bags.

Reheating Peppermint Swirl Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat for 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up; be careful not to overdo it!
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid, and warm the cookies for about 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another flavor instead of peppermint?

You can definitely customize these cookies! Substitute peppermint extract with almond or vanilla extract for a different flavor profile.

How do I make Peppermint Swirl Cookies more festive?

Add crushed peppermint candies as a topping before baking or drizzle with white chocolate after cooling for extra flair.

Why are my swirls not defined?

This could happen if the dough is not chilled properly. Ensure you chill each layer and the final log well before slicing.

How many cookies does this recipe make?

This recipe yields approximately 4 dozen cookies, perfect for sharing during the holidays!

Can I double this recipe?

Yes! You can easily double the ingredients if you want to make more Peppermint Swirl Cookies for larger gatherings.

Final Thoughts

Peppermint Swirl Cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday gathering. Their vibrant colors and peppermint flavor make them perfect for Christmas celebrations. Feel free to experiment with different extracts or toppings to suit your taste! Try these versatile cookies today; they’re sure to impress everyone at your table!

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Peppermint Swirl Cookies

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 48 cookies 1x

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Description

Bring joy to your holiday gatherings with Peppermint Swirl Cookies, an enchanting treat that combines vibrant red and white swirls with a refreshing peppermint flavor. These cookies are not only visually stunning but also easy to make, making them perfect for cookie exchanges or cozy family nights. With their delightful taste and festive appearance, they’re sure to impress friends and loved ones this season. Plus, you can prepare the dough ahead of time for added convenience. Experience the magic of the holidays with these irresistible cookies!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (2 sticks)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• Red gel food coloring
• 1/4 cup coarse sugar or crushed peppermint candies for coating

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Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg and both extracts until combined.
3. Gradually mix in dry ingredients on low speed until just combined.
4. Divide dough in half; color one half with red gel food coloring.
5. Chill both portions in plastic wrap for at least 30 minutes.
6. Roll out each dough into rectangles; layer them together and roll into a log shape.
7. Chill again for at least two hours.
8. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
9. Brush log lightly before coating in sugar or crushed candies; slice into rounds.
10. Bake for 8–10 minutes until edges are golden; cool on racks.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (15g)
• Calories: 70
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 40mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 2.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: <1g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: For unique flavors, swap peppermint extract with almond or vanilla extract. Enhance decoration by drizzling melted white chocolate over cooled cookies or topping them with crushed candies before baking.