As the holiday season approaches, the scent of peppermint often fills my kitchen, reminding me of the warmth and joy that come with family gatherings. One of my favorite traditions is baking cookies that not only taste delicious but also bring a festive touch to our celebrations. Peppermint Swirl Cookies have become a staple in our home, cherished for their rich buttery flavor and refreshing minty twist. The vibrant red swirls make them visually stunning, perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying with loved ones over a warm cup of cocoa.
These cookies are not only delightful to eat but also fun to make. I remember the first time I made them with my children; their excitement as we rolled the dough and created the swirls was truly heartwarming. It’s a wonderful recipe to involve the family in, and the best part is that it’s quite easy to prepare, taking just over half an hour from start to finish. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply want to indulge in a sweet treat, these cookies are sure to please.
Join me in making these Peppermint Swirl Cookies that are sure to become a favorite in your household as well!
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 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
- Red gel food coloring
- 1/4 cup coarse sugar or crushed peppermint candies for coating
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In another bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. (The mixture should look creamy at this point)
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract to the butter mixture, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, beating until a dough forms. Divide the dough in half.
- Add red gel food coloring to one half of the dough, mixing until the color is evenly distributed.
- Roll out both halves of the dough separately into rectangles on a floured surface, then layer them on top of each other. Roll them up tightly to create a log shape.
- Chill the log in plastic wrap for at least 30 minutes. Once chilled, slice into rounds and place on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Sprinkle with coarse sugar or crushed peppermint candies before serving.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the butter is softened but not melted for a perfect dough consistency.
- Chill the dough if it becomes too sticky while rolling.
- Use gel food coloring for a vibrant red that won’t dilute the dough.
- For extra crunch, consider mixing in chopped nuts or chocolate chips before the final swirl.
Recipe Science
The technique of creaming butter and sugar together is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in a light and fluffy texture in the cookies. The addition of peppermint extract not only provides a refreshing flavor but also enhances the overall aroma, making these cookies a holiday favorite. The red gel food coloring allows for vibrant swirls without altering the dough’s consistency, creating an eye-catching treat.
Serving Suggestions
These Peppermint Swirl Cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or as a sweet treat to enjoy at home. Serve them alongside a warm beverage, such as hot chocolate or tea, for a cozy experience. For an elegant presentation, arrange them on a festive platter and add a few sprigs of mint or holly for decoration.
Storage & Leftovers
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies, ensuring they are properly wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature. Note that the texture may slightly change upon freezing, but the flavor remains delightful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute the butter with margarine?
While margarine can be used, using unsalted butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture in these cookies.
What if I don’t have peppermint extract?
You can substitute with an equal amount of vanilla extract for a different flavor profile, though the cookies will lack the characteristic minty taste.
Can I use a different color for the swirls?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different gel food colors to create your own festive designs.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Peppermint Swirl Cookies, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum.
Are these cookies suitable for freezing?
Yes, these cookies freeze well. Just ensure they are wrapped properly to maintain freshness.
