Peppermint Pinwheels
Sweet peppermint pinwheels with colorful swirls and a buttery, festive flavor, perfect for holiday gatherings or cookie exchanges, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients except food coloring.
- Divide the dough evenly into halves; add food coloring to one half of the dough, then refrigerate for one hour.
- Take the plain dough and roll it on a lightly floured surface into a 16 by 9 inch rectangle.
- Do the same with the colored dough, then lay it over the plain dough.
- Roll them together and wrap tightly in wax paper.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- When ready to bake, heat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the dough about 1/4 inch thick and place on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your butter is soft but not melted, as this will help create a light texture. If you don’t have food coloring, you can leave the dough plain or use cocoa powder for a chocolate variation. To add a festive twist, consider incorporating crushed peppermint candies into the dough for extra flavor and crunch.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful as a holiday treat or served at winter gatherings. They pair beautifully with a warm cup of cocoa or a glass of milk. Consider serving alongside other festive sweets like Velvety Chocolate Pie or Carol's Carrot Cake for a delightful dessert platter that will impress your guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Peppermint Pinwheels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the sliced cookies, placing parchment paper between layers, for up to three months. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to regain their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peppermint Pinwheels contains roughly 85 calories, with 0g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different extract instead of peppermint?
Absolutely! You can substitute peppermint extract with almond, vanilla, or even orange extract for a different flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust the quantity to taste, as some extracts are stronger than others. Experimenting with flavors can lead to fun variations of the original recipe.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when they turn a light golden brown around the edges. Keep in mind that they will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven, so it's best to take them out just before they reach your desired doneness to prevent over-baking.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. After rolling it up in wax paper, refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together and can make for a more flavorful cookie. Just remember to slice and bake when you're ready to enjoy!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).