Peppermint Swirl Cookies

The Peppermint Swirl Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly captures the spirit of the holiday season. With their vibrant swirls of red and white, these cookies not only look festive but also deliver a burst of peppermint flavor in every bite. Ideal for holiday gatherings, cookie swaps, or as a sweet gift, these cookies stand out with their unique presentation and delicious taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Appearance: The stunning red and white swirls make these cookies a visual delight, perfect for any holiday table.
• Easy to Make: The simple steps ensure that even novice bakers can whip up a batch without hassle.
• Delicious Flavor: Infused with peppermint extract, these cookies offer a refreshing taste that complements the sweetness perfectly.
• Versatile Treat: Great for Christmas parties, gift-giving, or simply enjoying at home with a cup of cocoa.
• Family-Friendly Activity: Baking these cookies is a fun way to engage family members of all ages in the kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin baking your Peppermint Swirl Cookies, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Plastic wrap
• Rolling pin
• Parchment paper
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar, ensuring a light texture.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve even thickness when rolling out the dough for perfect swirls.
• Plastic wrap: Essential for chilling the dough properly to maintain its shape during slicing.

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 Color and Coating

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

How to Make Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, using an electric mixer:
1. Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Beat in the egg until well combined.
3. Add vanilla extract and peppermint extract; mix until incorporated.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients:
1. Mix on low speed until just combined.
2. Form a soft dough; be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Prepare Colored Dough

Divide the dough into two halves:
1. Leave one half plain.
2. Add red gel food coloring to the second half; mix until color is uniform.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Wrap each ball of dough separately in plastic wrap:
– Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 6: Roll Out Dough

On a lightly floured surface:
1. Roll out the plain dough into a rectangle (10×12 inches) about 1/4 inch thick.
2. Repeat with red dough to match size.

Step 7: Layer Doughs

Carefully lay the red dough on top of the plain dough:
– Gently press them together to adhere.

Step 8: Roll into Log

Starting from one long side:
– Tightly roll layered dough into a log while pressing gently to eliminate air pockets.

Step 9: Second Chill

Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap:
– Chill again in refrigerator for at least 2 hours until firm.

Step 10: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C):
– Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 11: Coat Dough Log

Remove chilled log from refrigerator:
– Optionally brush lightly with water or an egg white wash.
– Roll in coarse sugar or crushed peppermint candies for coating.

Step 12: Slice Cookies

Using a sharp knife:
– Slice log into rounds (about 1/4 inch thick).
– Place sliced cookies about an inch apart on prepared baking sheets.

Step 13: Bake Cookies

Bake cookies for 8 to 10 minutes:
– Look for lightly golden edges; avoid overbaking.

Step 14: Cool Cookies

Let cookies cool on baking sheets for several minutes before transferring them to a wire rack:
– Allow them to cool completely before enjoying your Peppermint Swirl Cookies!

How to Serve Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Peppermint Swirl Cookies are not just delightful treats; they can also be presented in various creative ways to enhance your dessert table. Here are some serving suggestions to make your cookies stand out.

Festive Cookie Platter

• Arrange a colorful platter of Peppermint Swirl Cookies alongside other holiday cookies for a vibrant display. Add some fresh mint leaves for an extra festive touch.

Hot Chocolate Pairing

• Serve these cookies with a steaming cup of hot chocolate. The peppermint flavor complements the warmth of the drink, creating a cozy winter treat.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use Peppermint Swirl Cookies as the base for delicious ice cream sandwiches. Choose vanilla or chocolate ice cream and enjoy a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

Gift-Wrapped Treats

• Package individual cookies in decorative bags or boxes and give them as gifts during the holiday season. This adds a personal touch to your gifts and shares the joy of baking.

Dessert Bar Station

• Create a dessert bar at parties where guests can customize their servings. Offer toppings like whipped cream, crushed peppermint candies, and drizzles of chocolate sauce to enhance the experience.

How to Perfect Peppermint Swirl Cookies

To achieve the best results with your Peppermint Swirl Cookies, it’s essential to follow specific techniques that guarantee perfect swirls and texture. Here are some tips to help you master this recipe.

• Chill Your Dough: Chilling the dough not only makes it easier to handle but also helps maintain the distinct swirls when slicing.
• Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality butter, extracts, and food coloring can significantly affect the flavor and appearance of your cookies.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies rather than soft and tender ones.
• Sharp Knife for Slicing: Use a sharp knife when cutting the dough log to ensure clean edges and defined swirls without squishing the cookie shapes.
• Even Baking: Rotate your baking sheets halfway through cooking to ensure even baking for all cookies.

Best Side Dishes for Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Peppermint Swirl Cookies pair well with various side dishes that complement their sweet and minty flavor. Here are some delightful options you can consider serving alongside them.

1. Hot Chocolate
   A rich, creamy beverage that enhances the peppermint flavor of the cookies and provides warmth during chilly days.
2. Peppermint Bark
   A sweet treat made from layers of chocolate topped with crushed peppermint candies, offering an extra crunch alongside your cookies.
3. Fruit Salad
   A light and refreshing combination of seasonal fruits that balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
4. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses such as brie or gouda can provide a savory contrast to the sweetness of Peppermint Swirl Cookies.
5. Coffee or Tea
   Brewed beverages like coffee or herbal tea bring out flavors in both the cookies and drinks, making for an enjoyable pairing experience.
6. Pecan Pie Bites
   Mini pecan pies offer a nutty sweetness that pairs beautifully with the minty freshness of your cookies.
7. Caramel Sauce Dip
   Warm caramel sauce serves as an indulgent dip for those who want an extra layer of sweetness with their cookies.
8. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A scoop on the side provides a creamy texture that complements both warm and cool cookie servings, creating delightful contrasts in every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Peppermint Swirl Cookies can be a fun experience, but there are common pitfalls that can affect your results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Not chilling the dough properly: Chilling the dough is crucial for maintaining the shape and swirl of your cookies. Make sure to chill it for at least 30 minutes before rolling and again after shaping into a log.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing the dough too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined to keep them soft and tender.
• Skipping the parchment paper: Baking directly on the cookie sheet can lead to sticking and uneven baking. Always line your sheets with parchment paper for best results.
• Incorrect slicing: If you slice the dough too thick or unevenly, it may not bake properly. Aim for 1/4 inch thick slices for uniform baking.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unheated oven can cause cookies to spread too much. Be sure to preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) before baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Layer with parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Peppermint Swirl Cookies

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Place wax paper between layers if stacking.

Reheating Peppermint Swirl Cookies

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place cookies on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Peppermint Swirl Cookies:

Can I use other extracts instead of peppermint?

You can substitute peppermint extract with other extracts like almond or vanilla for different flavor profiles.

How do I make the swirls more defined?

Ensure both doughs are chilled well before rolling and handle them gently while forming the log. This helps maintain sharp swirls.

What if I don’t have red gel food coloring?

You can use any food coloring you prefer, or leave one half plain for a classic look.

How long do these cookies last?

Peppermint Swirl Cookies stay fresh in an airtight container for about one week at room temperature.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Absolutely! You can fold in mini chocolate chips into either dough before rolling them together for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

Peppermint Swirl Cookies are not only visually stunning but also packed with delightful minty flavor. They make perfect treats for gatherings or holiday celebrations. Feel free to customize them by adding nuts or using different colors of food dye to match any occasion. Enjoy making this festive treat!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Peppermint Swirl Cookies

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Indulge in the festive spirit with Peppermint Swirl Cookies, a delightful treat that adds a vibrant touch to your holiday gatherings. These eye-catching cookies feature stunning red and white swirls, delivering a refreshing burst of peppermint flavor in every bite. Perfect for cookie swaps, gifts, or cozy family evenings, they are easy to make and will impress guests of all ages. Enjoy the sweet taste of the season with these cheerful minty delights!

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Ingredients

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• 2 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 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 bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add egg, vanilla, and peppermint extracts; mix well.
3. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture until combined.
4. Divide dough; color one half red with gel food coloring.
5. Chill both doughs for at least 30 minutes.
6. Roll out each dough into rectangles and layer them together.
7. Roll into a log, chill again for at least 2 hours.
8. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice chilled log into rounds and coat if desired.
9. Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are golden and cool on racks.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 60mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: <1g
• Cholesterol: 20mg