Christmas Pinwheel Cookies Recipe

Christmas Pinwheel Cookies Recipe is a delightful treat that brings festive cheer to any gathering. These visually stunning cookies are as fun to make as they are to eat, offering a swirl of vibrant colors and rich flavors in every bite. The best part? They are surprisingly easy to whip up, adding a splash of holiday spirit to your cookie platter.

What Are Christmas Pinwheel Cookies?

Christmas Pinwheel Cookies are enchanting cookies that feature a swirl of different colored doughs, typically red and green, which represent the festive season. As you slice into the cookies, you reveal the mesmerizing swirls that not only look beautiful but taste absolutely delicious. The combination of buttery goodness and festive colors makes them a favorite during the holiday season.

Ingredients for Christmas Pinwheel Cookies Recipe

To make these festive cookies, gather the following ingredients:

  • Butter: 1 cup, softened
  • Sugar: 1 cup granulated sugar
  • Eggs: 2 large eggs
  • Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons
  • Flour: 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • Baking powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Salt: ½ teaspoon
  • Food coloring: Red and green for festive colors
  • Powdered sugar: For dusting (optional)

How to Make Christmas Pinwheel Cookies

Making these cookies is straightforward and can be a fun family activity. Follow these simple steps:

  1. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
  2. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. This mixture should be smooth and well combined.
  3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
  1. Divide the Dough: Once the dough is ready, divide it in half. For one half, you can leave it as is. For the other half, add the food coloring, mixing until you achieve a vibrant color.
  2. Chill the Dough: Once colored, wrap both portions of the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. This helps the dough firm up for easier handling.
  3. Roll Out the Dough: After chilling, take both doughs out and roll them out on a floured surface. Aim for a thickness of about ¼ inch. You want to keep the shapes as uniform as possible.
  1. Layer the Doughs: Place one layer of colored dough on top of the other. Press down gently to ensure they stick together.
  2. Roll into a Log: Starting from one edge, carefully roll the layered dough into a log shape, maintaining tightness as you go. Wrap the log in plastic wrap again and chill for another 30 minutes.
  3. Slice and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the log from the fridge and slice it into ¼ inch thick cookies. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
  1. Cool Down: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Tips for the Perfect Christmas Pinwheel Cookies

  • Use Food Safe Gloves: When mixing food coloring into the dough, consider using gloves to avoid staining your hands.
  • Uniform Thickness: Try to maintain even dough thickness when rolling out, so the cookies bake evenly.
  • Chill Thoroughly: Do not skip the chilling steps! Chilling the dough helps firm it up, making it easier to roll and cut.
  • Experiment with Flavors: You can add almond or peppermint extract for a festive twist!

How to Serve Christmas Pinwheel Cookies

These cookies make a stunning centerpiece on any holiday dessert table. Here are some serving ideas:

  • Cookie Platters: Arrange your cookies on festive platters along with other holiday treats.
  • Gift Giving: Pack cookies in clear bags or decorative tins to share with friends and family.
  • With Hot Beverages: Pair these cookies with a cup of hot cocoa, coffee, or tea for a cozy treat.

Storage Tips for Christmas Pinwheel Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, follow these simple storage tips:

  • Airtight Containers: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the cookie dough logs before baking. Just wrap them tightly and store in the freezer. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
  • Keep Separated: If storing different types of cookies, it’s best to keep them separated to avoid flavor mixing.

Variations of Christmas Pinwheel Cookies

These pinwheel cookies are versatile, and you can easily customize them. Here are a few variations to consider:

  • Chocolate Pinwheel Cookies: Mix cocoa powder into half the dough for a chocolate and vanilla swirl.
  • Sprinkle Topped: Roll the log in festive sprinkles before slicing to add extra flair.
  • Minty Delight: Add peppermint extract and green food coloring for mint-flavored cookies.
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Nutritional Benefits of Christmas Pinwheel Cookies

While these cookies are definitely a treat, there are a few nutritional aspects to consider:

  • Moderation is Key: Enjoy these cookies as part of a balanced diet, especially during the festive season.
  • Coconut Oil Alternate: Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.
  • Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to increase fiber content.

Christmas Pinwheel Cookies are not just a treat; they embody the spirit of the holiday season with their beautiful colors and delightful taste. Making them can become a fun tradition and a wonderful way to bring friends and family together in the kitchen. This recipe is sure to leave your loved ones smiling with each colorful, delicious bite! Happy baking!