There’s a distinct joy that fills the air when the holiday season rolls around, especially when baking is involved. The cheerful zing of peppermint mixed with sweet buttery dough takes me back to cozy family gatherings where laughter was abundant and cookies reigned supreme. That’s why I’m thrilled to share my Peppermint Pinwheel Cookies recipe, a delightful combination of festive colors and refreshing flavors that’s perfect for your holiday cookie exchange or just a cozy day at home.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or simply someone who revels in homemade treats, these cookies are surprisingly easy to make yet look incredibly impressive. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of rolling and chilling time, you’ll transform your kitchen into a winter wonderland. Get ready to delight your taste buds and impress your loved ones with these stunning pinwheel cookies that are as delicious as they are beautiful!
Why will you love these Peppermint Pinwheel Cookies?
Irresistible flavors: The classic combination of buttery sweetness layered with vibrant peppermint creates a refreshing treat.
Visually stunning: Their striking red and white swirls make for beautiful presentations, perfect for holiday gatherings or gift-giving.
Easy to make: With just a few steps, even novice bakers can create these impressive cookies.
Crowd-pleasing: Great for cookie exchanges, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Flexible timing: You can prepare the dough ahead of time, saving you stress on busy baking days! Explore more festive delights with our other holiday recipes.
Peppermint Pinwheel Cookies Ingredients
• Perfect for a festive baking adventure!
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter – ensure it’s softened for easier blending
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar – for that sweet, melted goodness
- 1 large egg – binds everything together
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – adds depth to the flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract – enhances the refreshing minty taste
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – all-purpose for perfect texture
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder – gives the cookies a little rise
- 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar – stabilizes the dough
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness
- red food coloring – make your pinwheels vibrant and festive
These Peppermint Pinwheel Cookies are a fun way to embrace the spirit of cooking while sharing joy with loved ones!
How to Make Peppermint Pinwheel Cookies
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Cream together the butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. This step creates a perfect base, ensuring your cookies are tender and sweet!
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Add the egg and extracts by beating in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until well combined. This adds that delightful flavor that makes every bite memorable.
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Mix dry ingredients by whisking together the flour, baking powder, cream of tartar, and salt in a small bowl. This mixture helps the cookies rise and gives them a delightful texture.
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Combine mixtures by gradually beating the flour mixture into the butter mixture. The dough will come together and be slightly sticky, a good sign!
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Divide the dough in half, and dye one half red with your food coloring. This will create those festive pinwheel layers, so make sure it’s vibrant.
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Roll out the dough on a clean, floured surface, shaping each half into a rectangle approximately 1/4” thick. Layer the red dough on top of the uncolored dough, ensuring an even distribution.
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Roll the doughs tightly into a log, then wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least one hour to help them set before slicing.
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Preheat your oven to 350°F and line two cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This prepares your baking area for those delightful cookies!
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Slice the dough into 1/4” thick circles after removing it from the fridge, discarding any uneven ends. Aim for even slices so they cook uniformly!
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Bake the cookies on the prepared sheets for 8-12 minutes, until they’re just slightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as overbaking can alter that delightful texture.
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra festive touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Peppermint Pinwheel Cookies?
Transform your cookie experience into a delightful spread that will warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds.
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Hot Cocoa: Rich and creamy hot cocoa pairs beautifully, enhancing the peppermint flavor while keeping you cozy during chilly nights. Imagine wrapping your hands around a warm mug as you indulge in these festive treats.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream brings a creamy contrast to the minty cookies. The cold creaminess surprises your palate, creating a delightful balance between hot and cold.
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Peppermint Bark: This crunchy, chocolatey treat echoes the refreshing tones of the cookies, making for a wonderful holiday combination. Serve it as a sweet surprise alongside your cookies for an inviting dessert platter.
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Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These juicy, sweet berries provide a fresh burst of flavor that complements the richness of the cookies. The combination of chocolate and fruit creates a vibrant and appealing presentation.
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Spiced Chai Latte: Infused with warming spices, a chai latte complements the cookies while providing a comforting beverage option. The aromatic spices are irresistibly cozy, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
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Christmas Fruit Cake: This traditional dessert adds a fruity, nutty element that contrasts nicely with the minty sweetness of the cookies. It enriches your festive table and adds a touch of nostalgia to your holiday spread.
How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Pinwheel Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep your Peppermint Pinwheel Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This ensures they stay fresh and delicious.
Fridge: If you’d like to extend their shelf life, store the cookies in the fridge. They can last for up to 1 week, but ensure they are in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag once frozen. They can be kept for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes until they’re soft and inviting!
Peppermint Pinwheel Cookies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these delicious cookies to suit your taste!
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Chocolate Peppermint: Add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to half of the dough for a rich chocolate experience blended with minty freshness. These simply decadent cookies will be irresistible!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs while keeping the texture delightful. They’ll be just as fun and festive!
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Mint Chocolate Chip: Fold in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips to your peppermint dough for added bursts of chocolatey goodness. This twist makes each bite even more delightful!
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Spicy Notes: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the dough for a surprising kick. The heat combined with peppermint creates a uniquely flavorful experience that will leave friends guessing!
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Lemon Zest: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of lemon zest into the white dough for a refreshing citrus twist. This brightens the flavor and adds a lovely contrast to the rich peppermint.
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Nutty Flavor: Mix in 1/2 cup of finely chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor. It gives a satisfying texture that enhances the overall cookie experience.
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White Chocolate Drizzle: Once baked, drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled cookies for a sweet finish and beautiful presentation. This adds a creamy touch that pairs perfectly with peppermint!
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Holiday Sprinkles: Top the cookies with festive holiday sprinkles before baking for an extra pop of color and joy. They’ll be sure to bring smiles to every gathering!
Expert Tips for Peppermint Pinwheel Cookies
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Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is at room temperature before creaming. It blends better with sugar, ensuring a light and fluffy dough.
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Chill Time is Key: Don’t skip the refrigeration step! Chilling the dough firms it up, making it easier to slice without losing the pinwheel shape.
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Consistent Thickness: When rolling out the dough, aim for a uniform thickness of about 1/4”. This helps the cookies bake evenly, ensuring perfect texture throughout.
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Colorful Dough: Use enough food coloring to achieve a bold red. A light tint won’t stand out in the finished cookies, so don’t be shy!
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Watch the Timer: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be slightly golden; baking too long can result in hard cookies rather than the soft texture you want in these Peppermint Pinwheel Cookies.
Make Ahead Options
These Peppermint Pinwheel Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance; simply follow the recipe steps until the dough is rolled into a log, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. For optimal freshness, ensure the dough is well-sealed to prevent any drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply slice the chilled logs into rounds and bake according to the recipe instructions. With these make ahead tips, you’ll have beautiful, refreshing cookies ready to impress your guests without the last-minute rush!
Peppermint Pinwheel Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ingredients for Peppermint Pinwheel Cookies?
Absolutely! When choosing butter, look for high-quality unsalted butter; it should be soft but not melted. The granulated sugar should be fine and free of clumps, ensuring even mixing. For the best peppermint flavor, opt for a pure peppermint extract; avoid imitation, as it can have a more artificial taste. Always check for freshness on your baking powder and cream of tartar to ensure your cookies rise perfectly.
How should I store leftovers of my Peppermint Pinwheel Cookies?
Very good question! Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last a little longer, refrigerate them for up to 1 week. Just make sure they’re in an airtight container to avoid drying out. I’ve found that putting a slice of bread in the container can help keep them moist for a bit longer too!
Can I freeze Peppermint Pinwheel Cookies for later?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Peppermint Pinwheel Cookies, start by cooling them completely once they are baked. Then, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer! When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or pop them into a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes to refresh them.
What if my cookies don’t keep their pinwheel shape?
If you notice your cookies losing their pinwheel shape, it’s likely that the dough wasn’t chilled long enough. Make sure to refrigerate the rolled log for a full hour as this helps the dough firm up, allowing you to slice them without losing those beautiful layers. If they still spread while baking, try chilling the cut cookies for another 15-30 minutes before baking, and ensure your oven temperature is correct by using an oven thermometer.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with these cookies?
Yes, indeed! These Peppermint Pinwheel Cookies contain wheat and dairy, so they’re not suitable for individuals with gluten intolerance or dairy allergies. If you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For dairy-free options, substitute the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. Just make sure to adjust the measurements accordingly, as different fats can behave differently in baking!
Irresistibly Fun Peppermint Pinwheel Cookies to Brighten Your Day
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cream together the butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract, beating until well combined.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cream of tartar, and salt.
- Gradually beat the flour mixture into the butter mixture until the dough comes together.
- Divide the dough in half and dye one half red with food coloring.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface into rectangles approximately 1/4” thick.
- Layer the red dough on the uncolored dough and roll tightly into a log.
- Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.
- Slice the dough into 1/4” thick circles after removing from the fridge.
- Bake the cookies for 8-12 minutes until slightly golden.
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