Name: Perfect Peppermint Swirl Cookies: Easy Holiday Treat
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 2 h 42 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon peppermint extract; Red gel food coloring (or any festive color of your choice)

Peppermint Swirl Cookies have been a cherished part of my holiday traditions for as long as I can remember. The vibrant red and white swirls always reminded me of candy canes, and the crisp, minty scent filled our kitchen with pure Christmas magic. Making these homemade peppermint swirl cookies brings back such warm memories of decorating with my family. They’re surprisingly simple to whip up, making them an easy peppermint swirl cookies recipe for anyone wanting to add a festive touch to their celebrations. Get ready to create some delicious memories! Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Swirl Cookie Recipe

There are so many reasons why this recipe is a holiday favorite! These cookies are:

Irresistibly Delicious: The perfect balance of buttery cookie and cool peppermint makes these a treat for any palate.
Quick to Make: You can have these easy peppermint swirl cookies ready for baking in under 30 minutes.
Festive and Beautiful: The classic red and white swirls look stunning on any holiday cookie platter.
Budget-Friendly: Made with simple pantry staples, they’re an affordable way to spread holiday cheer.
Family Fun: Rolling and slicing the dough is a wonderful activity to do with kids, creating truly homemade peppermint swirl cookies together.
Versatile: They pair perfectly with hot cocoa or coffee, making them ideal for any winter gathering.
Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone adores the bright, refreshing flavor and charming appearance.

Ingredients for Classic Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Whipping up these delightful peppermint swirl sugar cookies is straightforward with these simple ingredients. The key to their perfect texture and flavor lies in the quality of each component. Using softened butter creates a creamy base, while the peppermint extract provides that signature refreshing taste.

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – This forms the structure of our cookies.
½ teaspoon baking powder – Helps the cookies rise just a bit for a tender crumb.
¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened – Essential for a rich, buttery flavor and tender texture. Make sure it’s soft, not melted!
¾ cup granulated sugar – Provides sweetness and helps create that classic cookie crispness.
1 large egg – Acts as a binder, holding our dough together.
1 teaspoon peppermint extract – This is where the magic happens, infusing that wonderful minty flavor.
Red gel food coloring – For those beautiful, festive swirls. You can also use green or another color you love!

How to Make Homemade Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Ready to create some beautiful and delicious cookies? This guide will walk you through exactly how to make peppermint swirl cookies that look as amazing as they taste. The process is simpler than you might think, and the result is a stunning batch of red and white swirl cookies perfect for any festive occasion.

Step 1: First things first, let’s get that oven ready! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a couple of baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon salt. This dry mixture forms the base of our cookie dough. Set this aside for now.
Step 3: Grab a large mixing bowl. Cream together the ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened and ¾ cup granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale yellow. This is crucial for a tender cookie texture.
Step 4: Beat in the 1 large egg and the 1 teaspoon peppermint extract until everything is well combined and smooth. The scent of peppermint should start filling your kitchen!
Step 5: Now, it’s time to divide the dough. Split the dough evenly into two separate bowls. Leave one half plain, and to the second bowl, add your red gel food coloring. Mix it thoroughly until you achieve a beautiful, consistent hue.
Step 6: Lay down two sheets of parchment paper. Place one half of the dough on one sheet and the other half on the second. Roll out each dough half into a rectangle, aiming for about ¼-inch thickness and matching sizes. Chill both rectangles in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This firms them up for easier handling.
Step 7: Once chilled, carefully peel the parchment paper off one dough rectangle. Gently place it on top of the other dough rectangle, lining them up as best as you can. Carefully peel off the second sheet of parchment paper. Trim the edges to make them neat.
Step 8: Starting from one of the longer sides, tightly roll the layered dough into a log. This is where the signature swirl pattern begins to form! Wrap the log securely in plastic wrap.
Step 9: Refrigerate the dough log for at least 2 hours, or even better, overnight. This chilling step is vital for clean slices and preventing the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
Step 10: Once the dough is well-chilled and firm, remove it from the refrigerator. Slice the log into ¼-inch thick rounds. Arrange the cookie slices on your prepared baking sheets, leaving a little space between each one.
Step 11: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are just beginning to set and turn lightly golden. You want them slightly soft in the center for that perfect chewy texture.
Step 12: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your gorgeous, homemade red and white swirl cookies!

Perfect Peppermint Swirl Cookies: Easy Holiday Treat - Peppermint Swirl Cookies - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Achieving that perfect swirl and texture is easier than you think with a few insider tricks. These tips will help you make truly memorable cookies every time.

Ensure your butter is softened, not melted, for the creamiest dough base.
Chill the dough thoroughly; this is non-negotiable for clean slicing and shape retention.
Don’t overbake! The cookies will continue to set as they cool, so aim for just-set edges.
For a more intense peppermint flavor, add a tiny bit more extract, but be cautious not to add too much liquid.

What’s the secret to perfect Swirled peppermint cookies?

The secret to perfect swirled peppermint cookies is chilling the dough thoroughly before slicing. This firming step ensures clean cuts and prevents the layers from blurring, resulting in beautifully defined swirls for the best peppermint swirl cookies. For more baking tips, check out these last recipes.

Can I make Peppermint swirl cookie dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! The peppermint swirl cookie dough can be made up to 2 days in advance and kept refrigerated in its log form. Just slice and bake when you’re ready, making them perfect for holiday prep. You can learn more about our about Niki Air Fryer here.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Candy cane cookies recipe?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your dough is well-chilled before slicing, as warm dough will spread excessively. Also, be mindful of how much food coloring you use; too much can alter the dough’s texture. When baking, watch them closely; overbaking leads to dry cookies. For more information on baking science, you can refer to resources like The Science of Cooking.

Best Ways to Serve Holiday Peppermint Swirl Cookies

These festive beauties are more than just a cookie; they’re a celebration on a plate! Imagine them nestled alongside a steaming mug of hot cocoa, the rich chocolate and cool mint being a match made in heaven. They also pair wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or a spiced chai tea, offering a refreshing counterpoint to the warm beverage.

For a truly memorable dessert spread, arrange these holiday peppermint swirl cookies alongside other festive treats like gingerbread or shortbread. Their vibrant red and white pattern instantly elevates any cookie platter, making them a showstopper at parties. They’re also perfect for a simple afternoon treat when you need a little pick-me-up. Enjoying these peppermint swirl cookies is all about embracing the joy of the season! You can find more home baking ideas here.

Nutrition Facts for Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Understanding the nutritional breakdown helps you enjoy these festive treats mindfully. Each of these delightful peppermint swirl sugar cookies offers a balanced profile, perfect for a holiday indulgence.

Calories: 105
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Protein: 1g
Carbohydrates: 13g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 35mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more details on dietary information, please see our GDPR policy.

How to Store and Reheat Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Once your beautiful peppermint swirl cookies have cooled completely, it’s time to think about storing them. Proper storage is key to keeping these festive treats fresh and delicious. For short-term storage, place the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delightful for about 3 to 4 days this way. This makes them a fantastic make-ahead option for busy holiday schedules.

If you’re looking for longer-term storage solutions, or if you’ve made a big batch of easy peppermint swirl cookies, the freezer is your best friend. You can freeze the baked and cooled cookies for up to 3 months. Wrap them well in plastic wrap, then in a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, simply bring them back to room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying. You can also warm them gently in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for a few minutes for that just-baked warmth. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.

Frequently Asked Questions About Peppermint Swirl Cookies

What are peppermint swirl cookies?

Peppermint swirl cookies are delightful, festive treats characterized by their distinctive red and white (or other colored) swirls, reminiscent of candy canes. They are typically made from a simple sugar cookie dough, divided and colored before being layered and rolled into a log. This log is then sliced into rounds and baked, creating a beautiful swirled pattern in each cookie. They offer a delightful combination of buttery sweetness and refreshing peppermint flavor, making them a popular choice for the holidays.

Why are peppermint swirl cookies popular?

These cookies are popular for several reasons! Their visual appeal is undeniable; the striking swirls make them a beautiful addition to any cookie platter. Beyond their looks, the classic combination of sweet cookie and cool peppermint is incredibly appealing, especially during the winter months. They evoke a sense of nostalgia and holiday cheer for many. Plus, they are relatively easy to make, fitting well into busy holiday baking schedules. The fact that they look and taste so special makes them a beloved part of Christmas traditions. For our policies, please review our terms of use.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you absolutely can make homemade peppermint swirl cookies gluten-free! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a good quality 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Most blends work well, just ensure it contains xanthan gum. You might find the dough behaves slightly differently, so be prepared to adjust slightly if needed. The chilling step becomes even more important with gluten-free doughs to prevent spreading.

How do I get vibrant swirls in my cookies?

To achieve vibrant swirls, use a high-quality gel food coloring. Gel colors are concentrated and won’t add extra moisture to the dough, unlike liquid colors, which can make the dough sticky. Divide your dough evenly and color one half. When layering the doughs, ensure they are the same thickness for even rolling. Roll the log tightly to compress the layers, which helps maintain that beautiful swirl pattern during baking.

Peppermint Swirl Cookie Variations You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic recipe, the possibilities for peppermint swirl cookies are endless! Don’t be afraid to play around and discover your own favorite twists. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next batch of holiday peppermint swirl cookies.

Chocolate Peppermint Swirl Cookies: For a richer flavor, add 2-3 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder to one half of the dough before adding food coloring. This creates a delicious chocolate-peppermint combination.
Gluten-Free Swirled Peppermint Cookies: As mentioned in the notes, easily adapt this recipe by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This makes them accessible for everyone to enjoy.
Spiced Peppermint Swirl Cookies: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the plain dough half for a subtle warmth that complements the cool peppermint.
No-Bake Peppermint Swirl Cookies: While baking gives them their signature crispness, you can create a no-bake version using crushed cookies mixed with a peppermint-infused frosting or condensed milk mixture, then rolled and chilled.

These peppermint swirl cookie variations ensure there’s a delightful option for every taste and dietary need! For more information about our site, please see our privacy policy.