Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Peppermint Swirl Cookies are a delightful treat that brings festive cheer to any occasion. Their striking red and white swirls not only make them visually appealing but also infuse your kitchen with the refreshing aroma of peppermint. These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply as a sweet indulgence any time of the year. With an easy-to-follow recipe, you can impress your family and friends with these beautiful and tasty cookies.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant red swirls create an eye-catching treat that looks as good as it tastes.
• Festive Flavor: The combination of vanilla and peppermint extracts offers a unique flavor that is perfect for holidays.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create these impressive cookies.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for Christmas parties, bake sales, or as a fun addition to dessert trays at any gathering.
• Delightful Texture: Soft and chewy with a slight crunch from the coating, these cookies offer a delightful bite every time.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making Peppermint Swirl Cookies, gather your tools to streamline the process. Having everything ready will make baking smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Plastic wrap
• Rolling pin
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheets

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar, ensuring a fluffy texture.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve even thickness for your dough layers, crucial for sharp swirls.
• Parchment paper: Prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheets, making cleanup easier.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make your own Peppermint Swirl Cookies:

For the Cookie 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 the Color 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 Your Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside while you work on the wet ingredients.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg along with the vanilla extract and peppermint extract until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined; be careful not to overmix. A soft dough should form.

Step 4: Divide and Color Dough

Divide the dough in half. Leave one half plain while adding red gel food coloring to the second half. Mix until you achieve a uniform color.

Step 5: Chill Dough for Sharp Swirls

Wrap each ball of dough separately in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up the dough, which will prevent colors from bleeding during rolling.

Step 6: Roll Out Dough

Once chilled, lightly flour your surface. Roll out the plain dough into a 10×12 inch rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Repeat with the colored dough.

Step 7: Layer Doughs Together

Carefully lay the red dough rectangle on top of the plain rectangle. Gently press them together to adhere.

Step 8: Roll into a Log

Starting from one long side, roll both layers tightly into a log. Press gently as you roll to eliminate air pockets while ensuring that it remains tight throughout.

Step 9: Chill Again for Firmness

Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap again. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until very firm; this helps maintain your swirls when slicing.

Step 10: Preheat Oven

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

Step 11: Coat Your Dough Log

Remove chilled dough log from refrigerator. If desired, brush lightly with water or whisked egg white before rolling in coarse sugar or crushed peppermint candies for added sweetness and crunch.

Step 12: Slice Cookies

Using a sharp knife, slice the log into rounds about 1/4 inch thick. Place sliced cookies approximately 1 inch apart on prepared baking sheets.

Step 13: Bake Your Cookies

Bake cookies in preheated oven for about 8 to 10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden—be sure not to overbake!

Step 14: Cool Before Serving

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

Enjoy your delicious Peppermint Swirl Cookies!

How to Serve Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Serving Peppermint Swirl Cookies can elevate any festive gathering. Their vibrant colors and delightful flavors make them a perfect treat for holiday events or cozy family gatherings. Here are some creative ways to serve these delicious cookies.

Festive Cookie Platter

• Arrange a variety of cookies, including Peppermint Swirl Cookies, on a decorative platter. Add some greenery or holiday-themed decorations for a cheerful touch.

Hot Chocolate Pairing

• Serve warm Peppermint Swirl Cookies alongside rich hot chocolate. The cookie’s minty flavor enhances the chocolate experience, making it a delightful combination.

Gift Packaging

• Package individual cookies in clear cellophane bags tied with festive ribbons. This makes for a charming homemade gift during the holidays.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two Peppermint Swirl Cookies to create ice cream sandwiches. Choose peppermint or vanilla ice cream for a refreshing twist!

How to Perfect Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Creating the perfect Peppermint Swirl Cookies involves attention to detail and following some essential tips. Here are some helpful suggestions for achieving cookie perfection.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough before baking helps maintain the shape and prevents spreading, ensuring that your swirls remain distinct.
• Use Gel Food Coloring: For vibrant swirls, opt for gel food coloring rather than liquid dye, as it provides more intense color without altering the dough’s consistency.
• Roll Evenly: When rolling out the dough, aim for an even thickness to ensure uniform baking and consistent swirls in every cookie.
• Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye on your cookies as they bake. Remove them from the oven once the edges are lightly golden to maintain a soft texture.
• Store Properly: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh and chewy for longer.

Best Side Dishes for Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your Peppermint Swirl Cookies can enhance your dessert table and create a cohesive theme. Here are some excellent options that complement these festive treats.

1. Mint Tea – A warm cup of mint tea perfectly complements the peppermint flavor of these cookies and adds a soothing element to your dessert spread.
2. Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad with berries and citrus can balance out the sweetness of the cookies while adding a burst of color.
3. Cheese Platter – Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda on a cheese platter; their creaminess pairs well with the crispness of the cookies.
4. Chocolate Fondue – Set up a chocolate fondue station with fruits and marshmallows for dipping, creating an interactive dessert experience alongside your cookies.
5. Holiday Punch – A non-alcoholic holiday punch made with fruit juices and sparkling water can refresh guests after enjoying sweet treats.
6. Gingerbread Men – These classic holiday cookies offer another layer of flavor that pairs nicely with the minty notes of your Peppermint Swirl Cookies.
7. Spiced Nuts – Serve spiced nuts as a crunchy contrast; their savory taste will balance out the sweetness of your cookies beautifully.
8. Vanilla Yogurt Parfaits – Layer yogurt with granola and seasonal fruits for a light option that complements the richness of peppermint treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Peppermint Swirl Cookies, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Not chilling the dough: Chilling the dough helps firm it up, making it easier to roll and preventing the colors from bleeding. Always chill your dough before slicing.
• Overmixing the ingredients: Mixing too much can make cookies tough. Mix just until combined for a soft and tender cookie.
• Skipping the second chill: The second chilling of the log is crucial for keeping the swirls defined. Don’t skip this step; it ensures your cookies maintain their shape.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to overbaked or underbaked cookies. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.
• Not measuring flour properly: Too much flour can result in dry cookies. Use a kitchen scale or spoon and level method to measure accurately.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Peppermint Swirl Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• For best results, freeze before baking or fully cooled baked cookies.

Reheating Peppermint Swirl Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions that often come up when making Peppermint Swirl Cookies.

Can I use other extracts besides peppermint?

Yes! You can substitute with other extracts like vanilla or almond for different flavor profiles.

How do I make my Peppermint Swirl Cookies more festive?

Consider adding crushed candy canes on top or using colored sprinkles before baking for a holiday touch.

What can I use instead of red gel food coloring?

You can use beet juice or natural food coloring alternatives for a vibrant color.

Can I leave out the peppermint extract?

If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce it or omit it altogether. The vanilla will still provide sweetness.

How long do these cookies last?

Peppermint Swirl Cookies stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Final Thoughts

Peppermint Swirl Cookies not only bring festive cheer but are also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with various colors and flavors, making them perfect treats year-round. Try out this delightful recipe and enjoy every swirl!