There’s something magical about the holiday season, especially when it comes to cookies. Imagine a platter filled with vibrant, swirl-patterned Christmas pinwheel cookies that practically scream “eat me!” With their delightful mix of buttery flavors and festive colors, they’re like little edible ornaments. Thick NYC Christmas Cookies The aroma wafts through the house, making it feel as cozy as a warm blanket on a snowy day. You can almost hear the carols playing softly in the background as you prepare to dive into this deliciousness.
Every year, I whip up these Christmas pinwheel cookies and channel my inner pastry chef. I remember one holiday gathering when my cousin mistook them for the snowflakes on our tree—talk about a compliment! They’re perfect for cookie exchanges or simply to enjoy with friends over hot cocoa. Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks Grab your apron; we’re about to embark on a baking adventure that will leave your taste buds singing!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Christmas pinwheel cookies recipe is incredibly easy to make, allowing even novice bakers to impress family and friends
- The colorful swirls create an eye-catching presentation that brightens up any dessert table
- Enjoy the delightful combination of buttery flavor with a hint of vanilla and chocolate in every bite
- These cookies are versatile enough for any holiday occasion or just because you deserve a treat!
I still chuckle when my sister announced these were her new favorite cookies after one bite—that was a true victory moment for me! For more inspiration, check out this Thanksgiving appetizers recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Unsalted Butter: Use room temperature butter for easy creaming with sugar and maximum flavor.
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Granulated Sugar: Sweeten your dough perfectly; it balances the rich butter nicely.
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All-Purpose Flour: Regular flour works best here; ensure it’s sifted for light, airy cookies.
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Cocoa Powder: Choose unsweetened cocoa powder for those rich chocolatey layers.
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Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor; avoid imitation if possible.
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Eggs: One large egg binds everything together beautifully; ensure it’s at room temperature.
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Food Coloring (Red and Green): Get vibrant colors for those festive swirls; gel coloring works best.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Baking Space: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.
Cream Together Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks pale and has doubled in volume.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate one large egg along with pure vanilla extract into your mixture. Beat until well combined—this adds depth to our cookie dough!
Mix Dry Ingredients Separately: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and cocoa powder until blended evenly. This step ensures no lumps sneak into our delicious dough.
Combine Mixtures Together: Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps our cookies tender.
Create Colorful Layers: Divide the dough in half. Color one half red and the other green using food coloring. Roll each portion between sheets of wax paper into rectangles about 1/4 inch thick—this part gets messy but oh-so-fun!
Assemble Your Pinwheels: Place one colored rectangle on top of the other, then roll them tightly into a log shape like a candy cane. Candy Cane Heart Lollipops Wrap in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour.
Slice and Bake!: Once chilled, preheat your oven again if needed. Slice your chilled log into 1/4-inch rounds and place them on prepared baking sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are firm yet soft in the center.
Enjoy those delightful Christmas pinwheel cookies! Let them cool slightly before transferring them to wire racks—this helps maintain their iconic shape.
Now that you’re armed with this fun-filled Christmas pinwheel cookies recipe and tips, get ready to impress everyone at your holiday gatherings! Happy baking! Raspberry Champagne Cupcakes.
You Must Know
- Christmas pinwheel cookies not only impress with their festive colors but also allow for endless creativity
- The delightful blend of flavors and textures makes them a favorite for holiday gatherings, ensuring every bite is a cheerful surprise!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by chilling the dough before rolling it out. This helps maintain shape and makes slicing easier.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out sprinkles for crushed candy canes or nuts to add unique flavors and textures.
Storing & Reheating
Store your pinwheel cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Reheat gently in the microwave for a few seconds if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve stunning results, roll the dough evenly and tightly for perfect spirals
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking while rolling
- Don’t skip chilling time; it makes slicing easier and keeps cookies from spreading too much during baking
Making these cookies reminds me of my childhood when I’d sneak bites of raw dough while my mom baked. The smell filled our home, making every moment feel cozy and magical.
FAQ
What is the best way to slice pinwheel cookies?
Use a sharp knife and slice slowly to maintain clean edges and prevent squashing.
Can I freeze Christmas pinwheel cookies?
Yes, freeze them in an airtight container for up to three months for later enjoyment.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Cookies should be lightly golden around the edges but soft in the center when done.
Christmas Pinwheel Cookies
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
These vibrant Christmas pinwheel cookies are a delightful blend of buttery flavor and festive colors, making them the perfect treat for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in. With their beautiful swirl patterns and rich taste, they’re sure to impress family and friends alike. Easy to make and fun to decorate, these cookies will fill your home with the warm aroma of festive baking.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- Red and green gel food coloring
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour and cocoa powder then gradually add to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Divide the dough in half; color one half red and the other green using food coloring.
- Roll each portion between wax paper into rectangles about 1/4 inch thick.
- Layer one colored rectangle on top of the other and roll tightly into a log shape. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least an hour.
- Slice chilled log into 1/4-inch rounds, placing them on prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are firm but centers remain soft.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Holiday
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
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