Introduction
When the holiday season rolls around, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house. These Peppermint Swirl Cookies are not just a delight for the taste buds; they bring a festive pop of color to your dessert table as well! With a rich buttery base and a whimsical swirl of red and green, these cookies are both a treat to eat and a joy to behold. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, each bite offers a refreshing hint of peppermint that will leave you craving more. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get baking!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
- Red and green gel food coloring
- Crushed peppermint candies for topping
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 42 minutes (including chilling time)
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating the perfect base for your cookies.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined and smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to the butter mixture, stirring until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Divide the dough into two equal portions. In one half, mix in the peppermint extract and a few drops of red gel food coloring, kneading until the color is beautifully vibrant. In the other half, do the same with green gel food coloring.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll each colored dough into a rectangle, about ¼ inch thick. The colors should be equally distributed for a lovely swirl effect.
- Place the red and green rectangles on top of one another gently, then roll them together to form a tight log. Wrap the log in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to help maintain shape while baking.
- Once chilled, carefully slice the log into ¼-inch thick rounds, placing them on the prepared baking sheets with a little space in between.
- Sprinkle the tops of the cookies generously with crushed peppermint candies to add a festive sparkle and crunch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow them to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
- For a more intense peppermint flavor, feel free to adjust the amount of peppermint extract according to your taste preference.
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Storing these cookies in an airtight container keeps them fresh for up to a week, although they’re likely to disappear much sooner!
Cooking Techniques
When making cookies, especially those with colorful swirls, it’s essential to handle the dough gently. Rolling it out too thin or applying too much pressure can lose the beautiful pattern you’re aiming for. Keeping the log chilled before slicing is also key for achieving clean, even rounds. This recipe employs the creaming method, which helps to incorporate air into the dough, yielding a light and fluffy finished product.
FAQ
Can I use different colors for the swirl?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with any colors you like to suit the season or occasion. Just remember to keep the colors festive!
What can I use instead of peppermint extract?
If you prefer a different flavor, almond extract or vanilla can be used. Just remember to adjust the quantity to taste.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, the dough can be frozen! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge before slicing and baking.
Conclusion
These Peppermint Swirl Cookies promise to bring a dash of holiday cheer to any gathering. They’re a delightful combination of flavor and festive flair, making them the perfect addition to your baking repertoire. So gather your loved ones, enjoy the process of creating these colorful treats, and savor the sweetness of the season with every delicious bite. Happy baking!