When it comes to holiday baking, Christmas pinwheel cookies are where creativity and deliciousness collide. These swirl-patterned cookies bring a pop of color and plenty of cheer to any cookie tray. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to make—no fancy equipment needed, just a little patience and a whole lot of holiday spirit. For more festive cookie ideas, check out Blackberry Lime Lush Recipe.
A Brief History of Holiday Pinwheels
Christmas cookies have been a holiday tradition for centuries, but pinwheel cookies are a relatively modern twist. Their vibrant design traces back to the mid-20th century when bakers began experimenting with food dyes and patterns to wow at parties. They’re the kind of cookie that looks like it came straight out of Santa’s workshop, and they’re just as magical to eat! If you’re interested in other classic cookie recipes, you might enjoy Luscious Plum and Raspberry Cake.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you dive in, make sure your pantry is stocked with these essentials:
For the Dough
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup (softened)
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Egg: 1 large
- All-purpose flour: 3 cups
- Baking powder: 1 tsp
- Salt: ½ tsp
For the Swirls
- Food coloring: Red and green gel colors work best for vibrant swirls.
- Sprinkles: Optional but highly recommended for an extra festive flair.
Tools to Make Life Easier
- Rolling pin
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Plastic wrap
- Baking sheet
- Sharp knife or floss (yes, floss works wonders for slicing these cookies!)
How to Prepare the Perfect Christmas Pinwheel Cookies
Step 1: Make the Dough
Cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy—this takes about 2-3 minutes. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until combined. In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until a dough forms.
Step 2: Divide and Dye
Split the dough into two equal portions. Add red food coloring to one half and green to the other. Knead each portion separately until the colors are fully incorporated.
Step 3: Roll It Out
Roll each dough portion between two sheets of parchment paper until it’s about ¼ inch thick. Chill the rolled dough for about 20 minutes to make it easier to handle.
Step 4: Create the Swirls
Place the green dough on top of the red dough, carefully peeling away the parchment paper. Roll the dough into a tight log—start from the short end for smaller cookies or the long end for larger ones.
Step 5: Chill and Slice
Wrap the dough log in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible. Once firm, slice the log into ¼-inch thick cookies using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving about an inch between each. Bake for 10-12 minutes, just until the edges start to set.
Pro Tips for Foolproof Swirls
- Use Gel Food Coloring: Gel-based colors are more vibrant and won’t alter the dough’s texture.
- Chill is Key: Keeping the dough cold ensures clean slices and helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
- Don’t Overbake: These cookies should stay soft, so keep an eye on them!
Nutrition Facts
| Serving Size | 1 Cookie |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Fat | 6g |
| Carbs | 15g |
| Protein | 1g |
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Christmas pinwheel cookies with a glass of cold milk, a mug of hot cocoa, or even a holiday cocktail. They’re a standout on any dessert table and make fantastic gifts when wrapped in festive tins or cellophane bags. For more holiday baking inspiration, explore these delightful recipes.
Healthier Alternatives
Want to make these a little less indulgent? Swap half the butter with unsweetened applesauce, or try using whole wheat pastry flour for a fiber boost. You can also experiment with natural food coloring made from beet or spinach powder.
Other Holiday Favorites
Luscious Plum and Raspberry Cake
- Sponge Cake with Cream and Strawberries
- Decadent Grated Chocolate Croissant
- Luscious Plum and Raspberry Cake
FAQs About Christmas Pinwheel Cookies
1. Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! Wrap the dough log tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Let it thaw slightly before slicing and baking.
2. Why are my cookies spreading too much?
This usually happens when the dough isn’t cold enough. Make sure to chill the log thoroughly before slicing and baking.
3. Can I use different colors?
Of course! Blue and white make for a frosty winter vibe, or you can try rainbow swirls for a year-round treat.
4. How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container, they’ll stay fresh for up to a week—if they last that long!
Conclusion
If you’re looking to bring some extra magic to your holiday season, Christmas pinwheel cookies are a must-try. They’re festive, fun, and totally customizable. Go ahead, whip up a batch—you might just start a new family tradition!