Introduction
There’s something magical about the holiday season that makes indulging in festive treats all the more special. One delightful way to celebrate is with these charming Christmas Pinwheel Cookies. With their vibrant colors and tantalizing layers of chocolate and vanilla dough, these cookies are not only a feast for the eyes but also a burst of flavors in every bite. Perfect for sharing or simply enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa, these cookies are sure to become a cherished holiday tradition!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup red or green food coloring
- Sprinkles for decoration (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 42 minutes
Yield: Approximately 3 dozen cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for those delicious cookies.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—a truly delightful combination!
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, along with the vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined and smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until fully combined.
- Divide the dough into two equal halves. Mix the cocoa powder into one half and the food coloring into the other half to create two beautiful doughs.
- Roll out each portion of dough on parchment paper into rectangular shapes, about 1/4 inch thick, making sure to keep them evenly sized.
- Layer the chocolate dough on top of the colored dough, creating a festive visual experience. Carefully roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from one long side.
- Wrap the log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm it up, allowing those wonderful flavors to meld together.
- Once chilled, slice the log into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, giving them space to spread.
- If you’d like an extra festive touch, sprinkle colorful sprinkles on top of the cookies before baking.
- Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned—a mouthwatering sight!
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
- Ensure your butter is softened but not melted for the perfect cookie texture.
- Feel free to get creative with the colors! Using different shades for each layer can create a fun and unique presentation.
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week—if they last that long!
Cooking Techniques
The technique of rolling two doughs together is key to achieving those beautiful pinwheel designs. When rolling, take your time to keep the layers tight to prevent separation. Additionally, using parchment paper while rolling helps prevent sticking and makes it easier to transfer your dough to chill.
FAQ
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes! You can freeze the log before slicing for up to three months. Just allow it to thaw in the refrigerator before slicing and baking.
What if I don’t have food coloring?
You can simply omit the food coloring and enjoy classic chocolate and vanilla pinwheel cookies.
Can I add nuts or other flavors to the dough?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts, peppermint extract, or even a sprinkle of sea salt can enhance the flavor profile beautifully!
Conclusion
These Christmas Pinwheel Cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday gathering, bringing joy and sweetness with every bite. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or shared with loved ones, their festive appearance and delicious flavors are bound to warm hearts and spread cheer. Happy baking!