Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Peppermint Swirl Cookies are a delightful treat that brings the festive spirit to any gathering. With their striking red and white swirls, these cookies not only taste amazing but also make for an eye-catching addition to your holiday dessert table. Perfect for Christmas parties, cookie exchanges, or simply enjoying with a cozy cup of tea, these cookies offer a refreshing peppermint flavor that is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe simplifies the cookie-making process, so even novice bakers can create stunning results.
• Festive Appeal: The vibrant colors and classic peppermint flavor make these cookies ideal for holiday celebrations.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them at holiday gatherings, gift them to friends, or savor them all season long.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different food colorings or toppings to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Sharing: With about four dozen cookies per batch, they’re great for sharing with loved ones.

Tools and Preparation

To create Peppermint Swirl Cookies, you will need a few essential tools that will make the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Makes it easy to cream butter and sugar together quickly for light, fluffy dough.
• Plastic wrap: Essential for chilling the dough properly, ensuring neat swirls without color bleeding.
• Rolling pin: Helps roll out the dough evenly, ensuring consistent thickness for perfect baking results.

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 the 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 Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg followed by the vanilla extract and peppermint extract until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined; be careful not to overmix as this could affect the texture of your cookies.

Step 4: Divide Dough

Divide the dough in half. Leave one half plain while adding red gel food coloring to the second half. Mix until you achieve a uniform red color.

Step 5: Chill Dough

Wrap each ball of dough separately in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step helps firm up your dough, making it easier to handle without mess.

Step 6: Roll Out Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the plain dough into a rectangle measuring about 10×12 inches and about 1/4 inch thick. Repeat this rolling process with the red dough.

Step 7: Layer Doughs

Carefully lay the red dough rectangle on top of the plain dough rectangle. Gently press them together so they adhere well.

Step 8: Roll into Log

Starting from one long side, roll up the layered dough tightly into a log shape. Press gently as you roll to eliminate air pockets. Ensure consistency in tightness throughout to maintain swirl definition.

Step 9: Second Chill

Wrap your dough log tightly in plastic wrap once more. Chill it in the refrigerator for at least two hours or until very firm. This prevents squishing during slicing.

Step 10: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper while waiting for your oven to reach temperature.

Step 11: Coat Log

Remove chilled dough from refrigerator. If desired, brush lightly with water or a whisked egg white before rolling it in coarse sugar or crushed peppermint candies for an extra sweet crunch.

Step 12: Slice Cookies

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

Step 13: Bake Cookies

Bake in preheated oven for about 8 to 10 minutes or until edges turn lightly golden brown. Be cautious not to overbake!

Step 14: Cool Down

Let cookies cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these delightful Peppermint Swirl Cookies!

How to Serve Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Peppermint Swirl Cookies are a festive treat that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether for holiday gatherings or as a sweet surprise for loved ones, these cookies will charm everyone with their vibrant colors and refreshing flavor.

Festive Cookie Platter

• Arrange your Peppermint Swirl Cookies on a decorative platter with other holiday treats for a colorful display.
• Include some fresh mint leaves or edible flowers to enhance the presentation.

Hot Chocolate Pairing

• Serve these cookies alongside a warm mug of hot chocolate for a cozy winter treat.
• Add whipped cream and marshmallows to the hot cocoa for extra indulgence.

Gift-Bagged Goodies

• Package individual cookies in clear bags tied with festive ribbons as thoughtful gifts.
• Consider adding a personalized tag with a recipe or note for a special touch.

Cookie Decorating Station

• Set up a decorating station where guests can add icing or sprinkles to their cookies.
• Provide different toppings like crushed peppermint candies or chocolate chips for variety.

How to Perfect Peppermint Swirl Cookies

To ensure your Peppermint Swirl Cookies turn out beautifully, consider these essential tips:

• Chill the Dough: Always chill the dough before rolling. This helps maintain the structure and prevents colors from bleeding.
• Use Quality Extracts: Opt for high-quality vanilla and peppermint extracts to enhance the flavor of your cookies.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of tender ones.
• Be Precise with Measurements: Accurately measure your ingredients, especially flour, to achieve the right texture in your cookies.
• Uniform Thickness: Roll out both doughs to an even thickness for consistent baking and beautiful swirls.

Best Side Dishes for Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Peppermint Swirl Cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their minty sweetness. Here are some great options:

1. Peppermint Hot Cocoa
   A rich and creamy hot cocoa infused with peppermint, perfect for dunking the cookies.
2. Fruit Salad
   A light and refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cookies.
3. Cheese Platter
   Offer a selection of cheeses, including mild cheeses like brie, which contrast nicely with the sweet flavors.
4. Spiced Nuts
   Roasted spiced nuts provide a crunchy texture and savory contrast to the soft cookies.
5. Yogurt Parfait
   Layers of yogurt, granola, and berries create a delightful treat that pairs well with dessert.
6. Iced Tea
   A glass of cool iced tea enhances the cookie experience with its refreshing qualities.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Peppermint Swirl Cookies, it’s important to steer clear of common errors that can affect your results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the dough can lead to sticky cookies that lose their shape. Always chill the dough before rolling and slicing.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can make your cookies tough instead of tender. Mix until just combined for the best results.
• Inconsistent rolling: Rolling the dough unevenly can result in unevenly baked cookies. Aim for uniform thickness for consistent baking.
• Not using parchment paper: Baking directly on sheets without parchment can cause sticking. Always line your baking sheets for easy removal and cleanup.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Using an incorrect oven temperature can lead to overbaking or underbaking. Use an oven thermometer for accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Freezing Peppermint Swirl Cookies

• Place cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• These cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Peppermint Swirl Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds until just warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Peppermint Swirl Cookies that may help clarify your baking process.

Can I use different extracts in Peppermint Swirl Cookies?

Yes, you can substitute peppermint extract with vanilla or almond extract for a different flavor profile.

How do I make Peppermint Swirl Cookies gluten-free?

To make these cookies gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

What is the best way to decorate Peppermint Swirl Cookies?

You can drizzle melted chocolate or add festive sprinkles on top after baking for added decoration.

How long do Peppermint Swirl Cookies last?

When stored properly, these cookies will last up to one week at room temperature or three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

Peppermint Swirl Cookies are not only visually stunning but also deliciously festive. Their vibrant colors and delightful peppermint flavor make them perfect for holiday gatherings. Feel free to customize them with different flavors or toppings to suit your taste!

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Peppermint Swirl Cookies

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

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Description

Delight in the festive spirit with Peppermint Swirl Cookies, a stunning treat that adds color and flavor to your holiday celebrations. With their eye-catching red and white swirls, these cookies are not just beautiful but deliciously infused with refreshing peppermint essence. They make an excellent choice for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or simply enjoying during cozy evenings at home. The straightforward preparation process ensures that even novice bakers can whip up a batch of these delightful cookies with ease. Plus, their versatility allows you to customize the colors and toppings to suit any occasion. Bake a batch today and share them with family and friends for a joyful treat that embodies the warmth of the season.

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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
• 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. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined.
5. Divide dough in half; leave one half plain and add red gel food coloring to the second half.
6. Chill both doughs wrapped in plastic wrap for at least 30 minutes.
7. Roll out each dough into rectangles about 1/4 inch thick.
8. Layer red dough on top of plain dough; roll into a log shape and chill again for two hours.
9. Slice the log into rounds about 1/4 inch thick; place on prepared baking sheets.
10. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until edges are lightly golden; cool before serving.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 90
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: <1g
• Cholesterol: 15mg