Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the holiday season, and what better way to embrace that spirit than with the delightful aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your home? These Peppermint Swirl Cookies are not only stunningly beautiful with their vibrant red and green swirls, but they also offer a burst of refreshing peppermint flavor that’s perfect for festive gatherings. Whether you’re stacking them on a platter, gifting them to a friend, or simply enjoying them with a warm cup of cocoa, these cookies are sure to bring joy to your festivities!
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Red and green food coloring
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 32 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter together with the granulated sugar and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
- Beat in the egg, followed by the vanilla extract and peppermint extract, mixing until everything is well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the creamed butter mixture, stirring until just combined—be careful not to overmix!
- Divide the dough in half and place each half in separate bowls.
- Add red food coloring to one bowl and green food coloring to the other, mixing until both doughs are evenly colored.
- Roll out each dough half between sheets of parchment paper to about a 1/4 inch thickness.
- Layer the red and green dough on top of each other, then roll them up tightly into a log.
- Wrap the log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Once chilled, slice the log into 1/4 inch thick rounds and arrange them on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden, filling your home with a mouthwatering aroma.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For an extra festive touch, consider drizzling melted white chocolate over the cooled cookies or sprinkling some crushed candy canes on top! These cookies store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Cooking Techniques
Rolling and swirled techniques take a bit of practice, but don’t worry if your swirls aren’t perfect! They’ll still taste wonderful. Make sure to chill the dough long enough so it’s easier to slice neatly without crumbling. The beautiful colors will still shine through, making for a stunning treat!
FAQ
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to a day in advance and keep it in the fridge or even freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing.
Can I substitute the peppermint extract?
If peppermint isn’t your thing, feel free to swap in almond extract or even orange zest for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
These Peppermint Swirl Cookies are a festive delight that embodies the holiday spirit with every bite. Easy to make and beautiful to behold, they’re perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying during those cozy winter evenings. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the joy of baking fill your heart and home this season!