Peppermint Swirl Cookies
There’s something completely enchanting about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen. It’s a scent that evokes memories of family gatherings, cozy winter evenings, and the joyful hustle and bustle of preparing treats for loved ones. As the warmth of the oven fills the air, all your cares seem to melt away. It is in moments like these that I find my heart full and my spirit lifted, especially with a batch of Peppermint Swirl Cookies. These sweet, colorful delights have a way of not just satisfying your taste buds but also bringing together families and creating cherished moments around the table.
Why This Peppermint Swirl Cookies Means So Much
Every family has those special recipes that warm the heart and bring smiles to faces. For my family, Peppermint Swirl Cookies hold a cherished place in our hearts. I remember the first time I made them; it was a chilly December afternoon. With the holiday season in full swing, our home was buzzing with excitement, and the kitchen was the warmest spot in the house. As we gathered around, pouring flour and sugar, we shared stories and laughter, creating a symphony of happiness while we baked.
My children’s eyes lit up when I added the red gel food coloring to the dough. Their giggles rang out as we swirled the two doughs together, crafting the vibrant logs that would eventually become those delightful cookies. The peppermint scent began to dance through the air, and I knew we were in for something special. Each batch became a part of our family traditions, celebrated and anticipated each year. I love that when we bake Peppermint Swirl Cookies, we are not just making treats; we are weaving memories that bridge generations.
Bringing Peppermint Swirl Cookies Together
“Every time I stir this pot, it smells just like Sunday at home.”
Making these delightful cookies is truly a joyful process. It begins with the gentle whisking of dry ingredients in one bowl, the sound of flour softly settling as it mixes with baking powder and salt. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, the electric mixer comes to life, churning together softened butter and granulated sugar into a creamy, fluffy blend that welcomes you with its rich aroma.
As you beat in the egg and the fragrant extracts of vanilla and peppermint, you can almost taste the magic of holiday cheer. The way the dough begins to come together as you gently fold in the dry ingredients creates a connection between the flour, the butter, and the sweet memories of baking that I hold dear. A soft dough forms, and you can almost hear the excitement bubbling in the kitchen, waiting for the next step.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for Peppermint Swirl Cookies is like collecting little treasures that will come together to create something magical. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 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
As you gather each item, remember that fresh butter gives this recipe its richness, while a little extra vanilla can create a cozy aroma that wraps around your senses. Each ingredient plays a part in the symphony of flavors waiting to come together.
Step-by-Step Directions
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process is key to getting that perfect texture.
Beat in the egg, then the vanilla extract and peppermint extract until well combined. Let the sweet scents envelop you, creating anticipation for what’s to come.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined and a soft dough forms. Be gentle here; do not overmix, as you want to keep it soft and airy.
Divide the dough in half. Leave one half plain, and in the other, add red gel food coloring, mixing until the color is uniform.
This is the key to sharp swirls: wrap each ball of dough separately in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps firm the dough, making it less sticky.
Once chilled, on a lightly floured surface, roll out the plain dough into a 10×12 inch rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Repeat with the red dough, rolling it to the same size and thickness.
Carefully lay the red dough rectangle directly on top of the plain dough rectangle. Gently press them together.
Starting from one long side, carefully roll the layered dough tightly into a log. Press gently to eliminate air pockets as you roll; a consistent tightness ensures that each cut will show beautiful swirls.
Wrap the dough log tightly in plastic wrap and chill again in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until very firm. This second chilling is vital for preventing squished slices.
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Remove the chilled dough log from the refrigerator. If desired, brush the log lightly with water or a whisked egg white, then roll it in the coarse sugar or crushed peppermint candies to coat evenly.
Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1/4 inch thick rounds. Place these delightful shapes about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Do not overbake; you want to preserve that soft texture inside.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Breathe in the comforting aroma while you wait — it is worth every moment.
Serving Peppermint Swirl Cookies With Family Warmth
When it comes to sharing Peppermint Swirl Cookies, the best moments happen gathered around the table with loved ones. I often plate them on a festive holiday platter, the vibrant red swirls peeking through the soft cookies, beckoning everyone to indulge. Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a quiet evening after dinner, these cookies invite smiles and spark joyful conversations.
I love to serve them alongside a warm cup of cocoa or a fragrant spiced tea. Sometimes, my kids and I enjoy them right off the cooling rack, still warm and slightly gooey in the center. It’s a simple pleasure that makes our time together feel special. The playfulness of the cookies brings laughter to a family game night or serves as a sweet treat enjoyed while watching our favorite holiday movie.
Storing Peppermint Swirl Cookies for Tomorrow
Every cookie that comes out of the oven deserves a little love in how it is stored. To keep those Peppermint Swirl Cookies fresh and wonderful, I recommend placing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will hold their flavor and softness for up to a week, although I suspect they won’t last that long.
Another option is to freeze them for those moments you need a little something sweet. Place the cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag, taking care to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. They can be thawed for a quick treat whenever the craving strikes. Interestingly, I find that the flavors mellow and deepen overnight, making the experience even richer the next day.
Amelia’s Kitchen Notes
If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute the peppermint extract with almond extract for a different flavor profile that’s equally delightful.
For a bit of crunch and flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the dough, giving each bite an unexpected texture.
Be sure to keep your workspace lightly floured when rolling out the dough to prevent sticking and cracking.
If clean-up feels daunting after creating your masterpieces, use parchment paper on your counter when rolling the dough. It makes cleanup a breeze.
Always allow your butter to soften at room temperature for that perfect creaminess. It makes all the difference in your cookie’s texture.
Family Variations on Peppermint Swirl Cookies
Every family bakes their own story into recipes. Sometimes, we find ourselves sneaking in other seasonal ingredients just to keep things fresh. For instance, during Thanksgiving, we might swap out some of the vanilla for pumpkin spice, giving the cookies a warm twist that feels like autumn.
Another favorite is adding a dash of lemon zest to the dough, creating a refreshing contrast with the peppermint, giving an unexpected yet delightful flavor burst.
Kids love to help with fun “decorations,” and sometimes we use colorful sprinkles before baking or drizzle melted chocolate on top once they cool. Each of these little tweaks keeps our Peppermint Swirl Cookies feeling personal and alive with loving memories.
FAQs About Peppermint Swirl Cookies
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, and honestly, it might taste even better the next day once the flavors have settled and come together. The dough can also be made in advance and frozen.
What can I use instead of peppermint extract?
If peppermint isn’t your favorite, you can use vanilla or almond extract for a different yet equally delicious flavor.
How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
Chilling the dough not only makes it easier to handle but also helps maintain the shape of your cookies during baking, preventing excessive spreading.
A Final Thought
As I write this, I can almost feel the warmth of my family gathered close, laughter echoing through the kitchen as we savor the sweet, minty delights of Peppermint Swirl Cookies. I hope this recipe brings a little warmth and inspiration to your kitchen, just as it does in mine. Through each layer of dough and every swirl of color, may you find joy in creating and sharing these cookies with those you hold dear. Here’s to sweet moments spent with loved ones, one cookie at a time.
Peppermint Swirl Cookies
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Use fresh butter for richness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Extra vanilla can enhance aroma.
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract Can be substituted with almond extract.
- 1 tbsp red gel food coloring Used to create swirls in dough.
Coating
- 0.25 cup coarse sugar or crushed peppermint candies For coating the cookies.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, then the vanilla extract and peppermint extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined and a soft dough forms.
- Divide the dough in half. Leave one half plain, and add red gel food coloring to the other half, mixing until the color is uniform.
- Wrap each ball of dough separately in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Shaping
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the plain dough into a 10×12 inch rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Repeat with the red dough.
- Carefully lay the red dough rectangle on top of the plain dough rectangle and gently press them together.
- Starting from one long side, roll the layered dough tightly into a log, pressing gently to eliminate air pockets.
- Wrap the dough log tightly in plastic wrap and chill again for at least 2 hours, or until very firm.
Baking
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Remove the chilled dough log from the refrigerator. If desired, brush lightly with water or a whisked egg white, then roll in coarse sugar or crushed peppermint candies.
- Slice the log into 1/4 inch thick rounds and place on the prepared baking sheets about 1 inch apart.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Do not overbake.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
