Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Peppermint Swirl Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly captures the festive spirit of the holiday season. These cookies not only boast a stunning visual appeal with their beautiful red and white swirls, but they also deliver a refreshing peppermint flavor that’s sure to please friends and family alike. Ideal for Christmas gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply as a sweet indulgence, these cookies combine ease of preparation with impressive results.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these cookies without any hassle.
• Festive Appearance: The vibrant red and white swirls make these cookies a showstopper at any holiday event.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of vanilla and peppermint creates a refreshing taste that pairs perfectly with coffee or cocoa.
• Versatile for Occasions: These cookies are perfect for holidays, parties, or even as gifts, bringing joy anytime they’re shared.
• Family-Friendly Fun: Involve your loved ones in the fun of creating and decorating these colorful treats together.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Peppermint Swirl Cookies successfully, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Plastic wrap
• Rolling pin
• Parchment paper
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: This tool makes creaming the butter and sugar easy, ensuring a fluffy texture.
• Mixing bowls: Having separate bowls allows for efficient organization when preparing different parts of the recipe.
• Plastic wrap: It is crucial for chilling the dough properly to maintain its shape during baking.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when slicing the dough, which helps maintain the beautiful swirl pattern.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

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 Decoration

• 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 aside this mixture while you work on 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 along with vanilla extract and peppermint extract until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined to form a soft dough. Avoid overmixing to keep your cookies tender.

Step 4: Color the Dough

Divide the dough into two equal halves. Keep one half plain. Add red gel food coloring to the second half, mixing until you achieve an even color throughout.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Wrap each ball of dough separately in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step firms up the dough for easier handling without color bleeding.

Step 6: Roll Out Dough

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

Step 7: Layer Doughs Together

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

Step 8: Forming The Log

Starting from one long side, tightly roll up the layered dough into a log shape. Press gently as you roll to eliminate air pockets while keeping it tight for defined swirls.

Step 9: Chill Again

Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap once more and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until very firm. This prevents squishing when slicing.

Step 10: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Prepare baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.

Step 11: Coat The Log

Remove chilled dough from refrigeration. Optionally brush it lightly with water or whisked egg white before rolling it in coarse sugar or crushed peppermint candies for an extra festive touch.

Step 12: Slice Cookies

Using a sharp knife, slice the log into rounds approximately 1/4 inch thick. Arrange slices about an inch apart on prepared baking sheets.

Step 13: Bake Cookies

Bake for about 8 to 10 minutes until edges turn lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake them!

Step 14: Cool Down

Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets for several minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Enjoy your delicious Peppermint Swirl Cookies—perfectly festive for any occasion!

How to Serve Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Serving Peppermint Swirl Cookies is a delightful way to spread joy during the holidays or any special occasion. These visually stunning cookies can be enjoyed in various ways.

Festive Cookie Platters

• Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter with other holiday treats for a vibrant display.
• Pair them with various flavors, such as chocolate or vanilla cookies, for an appealing contrast.

Hot Beverages

• Serve with hot cocoa or peppermint tea for a cozy combination.
• The warmth of the beverages enhances the minty flavor of the cookies.

Gift Packaging

• Package the cookies in festive boxes or tins as homemade gifts.
• Add a personal touch by including a handwritten recipe card.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to create delicious ice cream sandwiches.
• Choose mint, vanilla, or chocolate ice cream to complement the peppermint flavor.

Holiday Parties

• Offer these cookies at holiday gatherings as a sweet treat for guests.
• They make excellent conversation starters due to their striking appearance.

How to Perfect Peppermint Swirl Cookies

To ensure your Peppermint Swirl Cookies are perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling both the individual doughs and the rolled log helps maintain clean swirls and prevents sticking.
• Use Quality Extracts: Opt for high-quality peppermint extract for a more pronounced flavor that elevates your cookies.
• Roll Evenly: When rolling out the dough, aim for an even thickness to ensure uniform baking and presentation.
• Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking; they should be golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
• Sharp Knife: Use a sharp knife when slicing the log to achieve clean cuts and maintain the swirl pattern.
• Decorate Creatively: Experiment with different toppings like crushed candy canes or colored sugar for added visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Pairing side dishes with Peppermint Swirl Cookies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Peppermint Hot Chocolate
   A rich and creamy hot chocolate infused with peppermint flavors complements these cookies perfectly.

2. Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
   The smoothness of vanilla bean ice cream provides a lovely contrast to the minty cookies.

3. Fruit Salad
   A fresh fruit salad adds brightness and balances out the sweetness of the cookies.

4. Chocolate Fondue
   Dip your peppermint swirl cookie halves in warm chocolate fondue for an indulgent treat.

5. Coffee or Espresso
   A cup of strong coffee or espresso pairs well, cutting through the sweetness while highlighting flavors.

6. Cheese Platter
   Offer assorted cheeses for those who enjoy contrasting flavors; mild cheeses balance well with sweet treats.

7. Milkshake
   Create a festive milkshake using peppermint ice cream blended with milk for a refreshing drink option.

8. Spiced Tea
   Serve spiced tea as a warm beverage option that enhances the holiday spirit while complementing minty flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Peppermint Swirl Cookies can be delightful, but a few common mistakes can hinder your baking experience. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Incorrect Dough Temperature: If the dough is too warm, it can become sticky and hard to handle. Always chill the dough as instructed to maintain its shape.

• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a tender texture.

• Skipping Chilling Time: Not chilling the dough adequately can cause the colors to bleed together. Follow the chilling instructions for distinct swirls.

• Improper Slicing Technique: Using a dull knife or applying too much pressure while slicing can ruin the cookie shape. Use a sharp knife and slice gently.

• Overbaking Cookies: Keeping cookies in the oven even slightly longer than needed can lead to dryness. Watch closely and remove them once they are lightly golden.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooled cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Peppermint Swirl Cookies

• Wrap individual cookies tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Peppermint Swirl Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on low power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm for 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Peppermint Swirl Cookies?

Peppermint Swirl Cookies are festive treats made with vibrant red and white dough, infused with peppermint flavor. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings!

Can I use other flavors instead of peppermint?

Absolutely! You can swap peppermint extract with flavors like vanilla or almond for a unique twist on these cookies.

How do I achieve sharper swirls in my cookies?

Chilling the dough properly before rolling is key. It helps maintain distinct layers and prevents the colors from bleeding.

How long will Peppermint Swirl Cookies last?

When stored properly, these cookies will remain fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Yes! You can replace butter with plant-based substitutes and use flax eggs or applesauce instead of an egg for a vegan version of Peppermint Swirl Cookies.

Final Thoughts

Peppermint Swirl Cookies are not only visually stunning but also deliciously festive. Their appealing flavors make them a delightful addition to any holiday table. Feel free to customize your swirls with different colors or flavors, making each batch uniquely yours!