Peppermint Swirl Cookies
In the gentle embrace of winter, the kitchen fills with the sweet scent of freshly baked cookies, evoking memories of laughter, warmth, and togetherness. The moment I start to mix ingredients, I am transported back to chilly afternoons spent with my family, rolling dough and sharing stories while the air is heavy with the aroma of peppermint and vanilla. It is during these quiet moments that my heart feels most full, especially when I bake Peppermint Swirl Cookies, which have become a cherished tradition. Their vibrant colors, rich flavors, and whimsical appearance make every batch a celebration of joy and love.
Why This Peppermint Swirl Cookies Means So Much
The story of these cookies is woven into the very fabric of our family. I first discovered this delightful recipe tucked into my mother’s handwritten cookbook, its pages slightly smudged with flour, hinting at countless baking adventures. As a child, I loved to help her create these cookies, mesmerized by the way the red and white dough came together like a beautiful piece of art. The first bite would always be greeted with smiles. The combination of peppermint and fluffy cookie dough felt like a magical treat, perfect for sharing during the holiday season or any family gathering.
As an adult, I now cherish these moments with my own children. Each time we bake together, we’re creating more than just cookies; we are building a treasure trove of memories that will stay with them for a lifetime. The excitement in their eyes as they watch the dough twist and swirl fills me with a sense of purpose. These cookies have become a symbol of comfort, signaling that it’s time to gather around the table, share stories, and enjoy a sweet treat.
The creation of Peppermint Swirl Cookies is more than just a straightforward recipe. It’s a tradition that has flourished in my kitchen. It connects generations, allowing us to honor the past while embracing the present, transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary. With every batch, I feel the warmth of family and the joy of creation wrapped up in each delicious bite.
Bringing Peppermint Swirl Cookies Together
“Every time I stir this pot, it smells just like Sunday at home.”
Making Peppermint Swirl Cookies is far simpler than you might think. From the soft texture of the dough to the vibrant colors of the finished cookies, every step is filled with joy. First, it starts with the comforting sound of the mixer whirring as you cream the butter and sugar together, creating a light and fluffy base that promises an inviting sweetness. Each ingredient you add creates a medley of flavors that blend beautifully, filling your kitchen with familiar scents that make it feel like home.
After the dough is crafted, it transforms into two distinct portions—one pure white and the other a bright, cheerful red. The act of kneading in the gel food coloring feels like a painting project. It’s a delightful way to engage the children, letting them see how something plain can become so vibrant with just a little extra effort. Rolling the dough between sheets of parchment paper becomes a fun family activity, as we joke and measure carefully. The anticipation builds as we layer the dough and roll it tightly, creating a beautiful log lined with stripes.
Once prepared, we coat the log in sparkling sugar, which gives it a festive touch, almost like candy canes. The sight of the dazzling exterior is enough to make anyone smile. Finally, we wrap the dough in plastic and patiently wait as it chills in the refrigerator. During this time, we talk about our hopes for the season, laughter echoing through the kitchen, blending with the memories of holidays past.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering what you need for these cookies is quite simple and often allows you to work with what you have on hand.
1 cup Unsalted butter, softened
1 cup Granulated white sugar
1 large Egg
1 tsp Peppermint extract
1/2 tsp Vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups All-purpose flour
1/2 tsp Baking powder
1/2 tsp Salt
Red gel food coloring
1/2 cup White sparkling sugar or nonpareils (for coating the edges)
For this recipe, using fresh butter gives richness and a comforting flavor, while a little extra vanilla can bring out a cozy aroma. I recommend choosing quality ingredients. An extra hint of peppermint creates a holiday nostalgia that is hard to resist. Whether it is for a festive gathering or a cozy afternoon, the magic truly happens when you bring together these simple elements.
Step-by-Step Directions
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Make the Dough: In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until fluffy (about 2 minutes). Beat in the egg, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour, baking powder, and salt until a soft dough forms. The mixture should be smooth and glossy, signaling that it’s just right.
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Color Half: Divide the dough into two equal portions. Leave one portion plain while adding red gel food coloring to the second half. Knead the dough until the color is bright and even, creating a cheerful holiday hue that will delight everyone.
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Roll and Stack: Roll the plain dough out between two sheets of parchment paper into a large rectangle (about 1/4 inch thick). The texture will feel soft and pliable under your rolling pin. Do the exact same with the red dough, ensuring that both layers are uniform in size. Remove the top parchment from both sheets, gently revealing your vibrant creations.
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The ‘Jelly Roll’: From the long edge, tightly roll the stacked dough into a log (like a cinnamon roll). Press gently as you roll to prevent gaps, embracing the delight of working with your hands. This step is where the cookie’s personality truly begins to show.
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Coat and Chill: Pour the sparkling sugar onto a baking sheet. Roll the cookie log in the sugar until the outside is fully coated in a glistening layer. Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight). The waiting is worth it, as it will help the flavors meld and deepen.
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Slice and Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the log from the fridge and, using a sharp knife, slice it into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place them on a baking sheet, where they will soon come to life in the oven. Bake for 10–12 minutes until the edges are just set but not browned, filling your home with an irresistible aroma.
Serving Peppermint Swirl Cookies With Family Warmth
One of the most rewarding aspects of making Peppermint Swirl Cookies is sharing them with loved ones. When the cookies come out of the oven, I love to gather everyone around the table. The sight of the vibrant cookies, still slightly warm, sparks conversations filled with laughter and joy. I often place them on a festive platter, the sweet color contrast drawing everyone’s attention and excitement.
While enjoying these treats, we might gather around the stories of past holidays, reminiscing about the sweet moments that brought us here. Sometimes, we pair them with mugs of steaming hot cocoa topped with fluffy marshmallows, creating a cozy atmosphere. Every bite of these cookies, with their delightful swirl, feels like a warm hug, reminding us of the importance of togetherness during this season.
The children often enjoy decorating their own cookies or creating simple cookie sandwiches, further telling their tales through their creations. The simple act of sharing and savoring these lovely cookies connects us as a family, enriching our lives with warmth and love. Peppermint Swirl Cookies have become not just a delicious treat but a tradition that unites us around the table, creating memories to last a lifetime.
Storing Peppermint Swirl Cookies for Tomorrow
Keeping Peppermint Swirl Cookies fresh is easy, which means you can enjoy them well beyond the initial baking day. I recommend storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps them soft and delicious, allowing the flavors to continue to meld overnight.
If you find your cookies are still around the next day, you might notice that their flavors become even deeper and more comforting. They can also be enjoyed chilled, offering a delightful texture that surprises the taste buds. If you have extra batches, you can freeze the cookie dough log before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, ensuring no air can reach it. When the craving hits, slice them up and bake them frozen for a fresh treat any day of the week.
Amelia’s Kitchen Notes
As you embark on your own baking adventure, here are a few tips learned from my kitchen over the years:
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Substitutions: If you do not have peppermint extract on hand, vanilla extract or almond extract can also provide a delightful flavor. Experimentation is part of the fun.
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Roll Uniformly: A good tip is to roll the dough to an even thickness. Not only does it help with baking evenly, but it also enhances the visual appeal of your cookies once cut.
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Cleaning Up: Keeping a small bowl of soapy water handy while baking can make it easier to clean up afterward. Just toss any tools and utensils in right away, and your kitchen will be tidy in no time.
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Explore Colors: Don’t hesitate to try different food colors or sprinkles. Each batch can be customized for different holidays or family celebrations, giving your cookies a unique flair.
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Ratio of Cookie: If you love a thicker cookie, think about slightly adjusting your slicing width to 1/2 inch instead of 1/4 inch for a softer, chewier interior.
Family Variations on Peppermint Swirl Cookies
In our home, we love to experiment with this recipe. One favorite twist is to add crushed candy canes on top of the cookies before baking, infusing an extra layer of minty goodness and a delightful crunch. Another variation is to switch the peppermint flavor with orange or lemon for a bright citrus version that has become popular during the spring.
You can also use chocolate dough alongside the vanilla to create a chocolaty treat with a festive flair. The playful contrasts offer everyone a chance to enjoy something special, making the Peppermint Swirl Cookies a canvas for creativity.
Every family has its unique take on these sweets, and I always love hearing about different traditions and adaptations. The essential part remains: the heart and joy shared while making and enjoying these delightful cookies together.
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. You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it, or even freeze it for later enjoyment.
What if I don’t have red gel food coloring?
You can substitute it with any other food coloring you love, or leave it out altogether for a classic white dough. The cookies will still taste delightful and be a hit.
Can I add chocolate chips to the dough?
Absolutely! Chocolate chips are a fantastic addition that complements the peppermint and adds a rich, indulgent element to the cookies.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky to work with, add a little extra flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency. It should be easy to handle without being overly dry.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While butter adds a wonderful richness, margarine can also be used. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
A Final Thought
As I reminisce about these Peppermint Swirl Cookies, I am filled with gratitude for the moments shared, the laughter heard, and the love created in my kitchen. I hope this recipe brings a little warmth and inspiration to your home, just like it does in mine. May your kitchen be a place of celebration, creation, and family bonding, where every cookie baked adds a sprinkle of joy to your life.
Until the next time we gather in the kitchen, may your days be filled with flavors that comfort and memories that warm your heart.
Peppermint Swirl Cookies
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- 1 cup Unsalted butter, softened Using fresh butter adds richness.
- 1 cup Granulated white sugar Provides sweetness.
- 1 large Egg Adds moisture and richness.
- 1 tsp Peppermint extract Can substitute with vanilla or almond extract.
- 1/2 tsp Vanilla extract Enhances flavor.
- 2 1/2 cups All-purpose flour Base of the dough.
- 1/2 tsp Baking powder Leavening agent.
- 1/2 tsp Salt Balances sweetness.
- to taste Red gel food coloring Adjust to achieve desired color.
For Coating
- 1/2 cup White sparkling sugar or nonpareils Used for coating the cookie log.
Instructions
Make the Dough
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until fluffy (about 2 minutes).
- Beat in the egg, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour, baking powder, and salt until a soft dough forms. The mixture should be smooth and glossy.
Color Half
- Divide the dough into two equal portions.
- Leave one portion plain and add red gel food coloring to the second half, kneading until the color is bright and even.
Roll and Stack
- Roll the plain dough out between two sheets of parchment paper into a large rectangle (about 1/4 inch thick).
- Repeat with the red dough, ensuring both layers are uniform in size.
- Remove the top parchment from both sheets.
The 'Jelly Roll'
- From the long edge, tightly roll the stacked dough into a log.
- Press gently while rolling to prevent gaps.
Coat and Chill
- Pour the sparkling sugar onto a baking sheet.
- Roll the cookie log in the sugar until fully coated.
- Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight).
Slice and Bake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the log from the fridge and slice it into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
- Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are set but not browned.
