Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Peppermint Swirl Cookies are a delightful treat that brings the festive spirit to your kitchen. With their vibrant red and white swirls, these cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, gift-giving, or simply enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa. The combination of buttery goodness and refreshing peppermint flavor makes them a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Visual Appeal: The striking red and white swirls create an eye-catching treat that looks great on any dessert table.
• Festive Flavor: The refreshing peppermint extract gives these cookies a wonderful holiday taste that everyone loves.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a festive dessert or package them as gifts; they’re sure to please anyone who receives them.
• Batch-Friendly: This recipe yields about four dozen cookies, making it ideal for sharing at parties or keeping on hand for family treats.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Peppermint Swirl Cookies, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more 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 fluffy texture.
• Mixing bowls: Allows for easy organization of ingredients while mixing dry and wet components separately.
• Plastic wrap: Essential for chilling the dough, which helps maintain the perfect consistency for rolling.
• Sharp knife: Provides clean cuts when slicing the dough log into cookie rounds, preserving the beautiful swirls.

Ingredients

For the 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 Coloring 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, 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 well combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a soft dough to form.

Step 4: Divide the Dough

Divide the dough in half. Keep one half plain. Add red gel food coloring to the second half, mixing until you achieve a uniform color.

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 Rectangles

Once chilled, roll out the plain dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle measuring about 10×12 inches and 1/4 inch thick. Repeat this with the red dough until both rectangles are equal in size.

Step 7: Layer the Doughs

Carefully place the red rectangle directly on top of the plain rectangle. Gently press them together to ensure they stick.

Step 8: Roll into Log Shape

Starting from one long side, carefully roll up the layered dough tightly into a log shape. Press gently as you roll to eliminate air pockets while keeping it consistent to maintain definition in your swirls.

Step 9: Chill Again

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

Step 10: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper in preparation for baking.

Step 11: Coat with Sugar

Remove your chilled dough log from refrigeration. If desired, brush lightly with water or whisked egg white before rolling it in coarse sugar or crushed peppermint candies to coat evenly.

Step 12: Slice Cookies

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

Step 13: Bake

Bake these delightful cookies for about 8 to 10 minutes or until their edges are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking!

Step 14: Cool Down

Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delicious Peppermint Swirl Cookies!

How to Serve Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Peppermint Swirl Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s for a festive gathering or a cozy night in, these cookies can be served to impress family and friends.

With Hot Chocolate

• Pair your cookies with a warm cup of hot chocolate for a comforting winter treat. The rich chocolate complements the refreshing peppermint perfectly.

As Party Favors

• Wrap individual cookies in decorative bags tied with ribbons. They make charming party favors that guests will appreciate during holiday gatherings.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a festive dessert platter alongside other treats like brownies or cupcakes. This adds color and variety to your holiday spread.

With Ice Cream

• Serve these cookies as an ice cream sandwich by placing a scoop of vanilla or mint chocolate chip ice cream between two cookies. It’s a fun twist that’s sure to please.

For Cookie Exchanges

• These vibrant cookies are ideal for cookie exchanges during the holiday season. Their unique swirls make them stand out among traditional offerings.

How to Perfect Peppermint Swirl Cookies

To achieve the best results with your Peppermint Swirl Cookies, consider these helpful tips.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough helps firm it up, making it easier to roll and ensuring clean swirls when sliced.
• Use Quality Extracts: Opt for high-quality peppermint extract for a more pronounced flavor that enhances the overall taste of your cookies.
• Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the baking time. Remove the cookies when they are lightly golden around the edges for optimal texture.
• Experiment with Colors: While red is classic, try adding green gel food coloring for a creative twist that adds to the festive spirit.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Peppermint Swirl Cookies can be complemented by several side dishes that enhance their flavors and add variety to your dessert table.

1. Hot Chocolate: A rich and creamy beverage that pairs beautifully with the minty freshness of the cookies.
2. Berry Compote: A homemade sauce made from mixed berries adds a tart contrast that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
3. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites offer a creamy texture that works well alongside the crunch of the cookies.
4. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can refresh the palate after enjoying sugary treats.
5. Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts provide a savory option that enhances the sweet notes of peppermint.
6. Homemade Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream can serve as a delightful dip for your cookies, adding extra creaminess.
7. Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels dipped in chocolate makes an excellent snack alongside sweet peppermint treats.
8. Mini Cupcakes: Offer mini cupcakes with festive flavors like vanilla or chocolate to create an enticing dessert selection.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Peppermint Swirl Cookies can be a delightful experience, but common mistakes can hinder your success. Here are some errors to watch out for:

• Overmixing the Dough: This can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a tender texture.
• Skipping Chilling Time: Not chilling the dough can cause melting and poor swirl definition. Always chill your dough for the recommended time.
• Using Incorrect Measurements: Baking is precise. Use measuring cups and spoons accurately to ensure the right balance of ingredients.
• Not Using Parchment Paper: Baking directly on sheets can lead to sticking. Always line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy removal.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Each oven is different. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your baking temperature is accurate for perfect cookies.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Peppermint Swirl Cookies

• Freeze cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months.
• For best results, layer parchment paper between the cookies.

Reheating Peppermint Swirl Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie for 10-15 seconds at medium power; enjoy warm but don’t overheat!
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Peppermint Swirl Cookies.

Can I make Peppermint Swirl Cookies without food coloring?

Yes! You can skip the food coloring for a classic look or use natural colorants if desired.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading?

Ensure your dough is well-chilled before baking, as this helps maintain shape during cooking.

What can I use instead of red gel food coloring?

You could use beet juice or another natural coloring option to achieve a similar effect.

How long do Peppermint Swirl Cookies last?

When stored properly, they can last up to one week in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.

Can I customize these cookies?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips or other flavors like almond extract for variety.

Final Thoughts

These Peppermint Swirl Cookies are not only visually stunning but also deliciously festive. Their versatility allows you to customize them with various extracts or toppings. Try making them for your next holiday gathering or just as a special treat!