When it comes to delightful holiday treats, peppermint swirl cookies take the spotlight with their delightful colors and invigorating flavor. These cookies are not just a feast for the eyes but are also bursting with that familiar peppermint taste, making them an instant favorite for all ages. Just imae breaking into a warm, soft cookie that has layers of beautiful red and white, reminiscent of a candy cane—what’s not to love?
Interestingly, these cookies carry a special place in many family traditions. I remember the first time I tried these at a family gathering; my aunt had baked a whole batch, and the vibrant swirls had everyone gathered around the dessert table. Not only are they simple to whip up, but they also bring everyone together for the joy of baking. If you enjoy recipes like our classic chocolate chip cookies, then you’re in for a treat with these peppermint swirl cookies. They’re quick, easy to prepare, and a fantastic way to celebrate flavors that truly evoke the spirit of unity and joy. Prepare to impress your friends and family with these radiant, minty delights!
What are Peppermint Swirl Cookies?
Let’s talk about the name “peppermint swirl cookies.” I mean, isn’t it fun just to say? The swirls alone make them sound like a candy shop concoction! When you hear “peppermint,” you might think of those delightful mints that sneak their way into holiday candy dishes. But with these cookies, you get a taste of that same refreshing flavor in a warm, gooey treat that’s simply irresistible! It’s the perfect blend of festive fun and sweet indulgence. After all, it has been famously said that “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and a batch of peppermint swirl cookies is sure to earn some serious affection from your loved ones. So why not give this playful treat a spin in your kitchen? Your taste buds will thank you!
Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Swirl Cookies
These peppermint swirl cookies have everything that makes them a must-try recipe. First off, the vibrant red and white swirls make for an eye-catching dessert that is perfect for any occasion, be it a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends. The second highlight is their cost-saving benefit. Why buy expensive holiday cookies when you can create a batch at home for a fraction of the price? Plus, there’s something incredibly rewarding about serving your homemade treats. Lastly, the crunchy edges paired with a soft, chewy center and that refreshing peppermint taste truly elevate the cookie to a whole new level.
If you’re looking for something equally enjoyable, why not try our classic sugar cookies? They’re scptious on their own, but add peppermint, and you have a unique twist worth exploring. So, roll up your sleeves and prepare to embark on a delightful baking adventure!
How to Make Peppermint Swirl Cookies
Quick Overview
Making peppermint swirl cookies is as straightforward as it is delicious. With a preparation time of about 30 minutes and additional time for baking and cooling, you can have these festive cookies ready for enjoying in no time. You’ll love how easy they come together and how satisfying it is to see those beautiful swirls come to life—definitely a holiday treat that will impress!
Key Ingredients for Peppermint Swirl Cookies
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Red food coloring (gel preferred)
- ½ cup crushed candy canes (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Be by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your cookies bake evenly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—this will take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the Egg and Extracts: Beat in the egg, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Divide the Dough: Split the dough in half and place one half back in the mixing bowl. Add a few drops of red food coloring to the remaining half, mixing until you achieve your desired color.
- Form the Swirls: On a piece of parchment paper, form a rectangle with each dough color. Layer one dough on top of the other and roll them up like a jelly roll, ensuring the two colors stick together.
- Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough roll in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Slice and Bake: Once chilled, slice the dough into ¼ inch thick rounds and place them on a lined baking sheet. If desired, sprinkle crushed candy cane on top. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
What to Serve Peppermint Swirl Cookies With
Enjoying peppermint swirl cookies becomes even more delightful when paired with a warm beverage. Consider serving them with a steaming cup of hot chocolate or a refreshing peppermint tea. The combination of the warm drink and the cool minty cookies creates a comforting and inviting experience. For a sweeter touch, you can also serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Top Tips for Perfecting Peppermint Swirl Cookies
To elevate your peppermint swirl cookies to perfection, keep these tips in mind:
- Chill Wisely: Don’t skip the chilling step! It helps the dough firm up so you get those perfect cookie shapes.
- Food Coloring Fun: Adjust the amount of red food coloring based on your preference—go bold or keep it subtle!
- Flavor Boost: If you’re a peppermint enthusiast, try adding some extra crushed peppermint candy into the dough for added texture and flavor.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To ensure your peppermint swirl cookies stay fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll typically stay delicious for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the cookies. Simply place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can last up to three months. For a warm treat, reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving. Enjoy your peppermint swirl cookies fresh and delightful, just as they were intended!
So there you have it! Peppermint swirl cookies are a delightful addition to any kitchen, combining flavor, festivity, and fun. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe will surely become a cherished favorite. Get ready to swirl, bake, and enjoy these beauties with your friends and family!
Peppermint Swirl Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Beat in the egg, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Divide the dough in half. Add red food coloring to one half and mix until desired color is achieved.
- On parchment paper, form a rectangle with each dough color. Layer one dough on top of the other and roll them up like a jelly roll.
- Wrap the dough roll in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Once chilled, slice the dough into ¼ inch thick rounds and place on a lined baking sheet.
- Sprinkle crushed candy cane on top if desired. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
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