Christmas Pinwheel Cookies

The holiday season is a magical time for baking, and few treats capture the festive spirit quite like Christmas Pinwheel Cookies. With layers of red and green cookie dough rolled together into a whimsical pinwheel pattern, these cookies are both a visual delight and a sweet indulgence. Optional sprinkles add a cheerful touch, making them a standout addition to any holiday cookie tray or dessert table.

Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a family tradition, or just a cozy afternoon at home, these cookies are fun to make and even more fun to eat. Kids and adults alike will marvel at the beautiful swirl pattern, while the buttery, soft texture keeps everyone coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive and Fun: Red and green swirls instantly bring holiday cheer to your kitchen.
• Soft and Buttery: These cookies are tender with just the right amount of chewiness.
• Customizable: Add sprinkles or even a dusting of powdered sugar to elevate the festive flair.
• Kid-Friendly Baking: Simple steps make it a great project for baking with kids.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Dough can be chilled ahead of time, perfect for holiday prep.
• Perfect for Sharing: Makes about 28 cookies, ideal for gifting or cookie exchanges.

Ingredients Breakdown

Cookie Dough

• 2 3/4 cups plus 2 tbsp (384g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup (224g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 1/4 cups (259g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• Red and green gel icing color
• 3–4 tbsp sprinkles (optional)

Yield: 28 cookies
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
Cook Time: 9 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 34 minutes

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Medium and large mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Parchment paper
• Rolling pin
• Rimmed plates for sprinkles
• Sharp knife or pizza cutter
• Baking sheets
• Silicone baking mats (optional)
• Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside for later.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together unsalted butter and sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. The mixture should noticeably lighten in color.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add egg to the creamed butter mixture and mix until fully incorporated. Stir in vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until the dough comes together. Use a rubber spatula to ensure a cohesive ball. The dough should be thick but not sticky. Avoid overmixing.

Step 5: Divide and Color Dough

Divide the dough in half. Color one half with red gel icing color and the other half with green gel icing color. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes until firm but still rollable.

Step 6: Roll Out Dough

Roll each dough ball out between two sheets of parchment paper into approximately 8×14-inch rectangles at ¼-inch thickness. Trim uneven edges and re-incorporate scraps as needed. Chill the rolled dough for 5–10 minutes (or freeze for 3–4 minutes) to firm it up for easier assembly.

Step 7: Assemble Pinwheels

Place the red rectangle on top of the green one, carefully peeling off the parchment paper. Align edges as best as possible and gently press to adhere. Use a pizza cutter or pastry cutter to straighten edges if necessary.

Step 8: Roll into Logs

Starting with the long side, roll the layered dough tightly into a log. Cut the log in half to create two logs. Wrap each in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.

Step 9: Slice and Add Sprinkles

Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. Slice each log into ½-inch thick cookies. Optional: roll the edges in sprinkles for extra festivity.

Step 10: Bake

Place cookies 2 inches apart on prepared sheets. Bake for 9–12 minutes, or until just before edges begin to brown. Allow cookies to cool on the sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.

Step 11: Store

Store in an airtight container. Best enjoyed within 4–5 days.

Tips & Variations

• Uniform Shapes: Chill dough thoroughly before rolling for clean pinwheel patterns.
• Extra Fun: Use colored sugar or holiday-themed sprinkles for decoration.
• Flavor Twist: Add ½ tsp peppermint extract for a festive minty touch.
• Mini Pinwheels: Slice logs thinner for bite-sized cookies perfect for parties.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend. Dough may be slightly more delicate.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

Christmas Pinwheel Cookies are lightly sweet with a tender, buttery bite. The contrast of red and green dough is purely visual, but the texture is soft and slightly chewy, making these cookies a delight with every bite.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with hot chocolate for a cozy holiday treat.
• Stack on a festive platter with other holiday cookies for a colorful display.
• Gift in decorative boxes for family, friends, or neighbors.

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	148 kcal
Carbohydrates	20.4 g
Sugars	9.7 g
Protein	1.7 g
Fat	7.2 g
Cholesterol	24.1 mg
Sodium	90.5 mg

Dietary Notes: Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs. Vegetarian-friendly.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Dough Preparation: Dough can be colored, rolled, and chilled ahead of time for easier holiday baking.
• Storage: Store baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap logs tightly in plastic and freeze for up to 1 month. Slice and bake directly from frozen, adding a few minutes to baking time.

FAQs

1. Can I make these cookies without gel coloring?
Yes, the dough will still be delicious. The color is purely festive.

2. How do I prevent cookies from losing their swirl pattern?
Chill dough before rolling and slice logs evenly. Avoid excessive handling.

3. Can I use sprinkles?
Absolutely! Optional sprinkles add extra holiday flair.

4. Can these cookies be made gluten-free?
Yes, using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Dough may be slightly more delicate, so handle gently.

5. Can I bake these ahead for a party?
Yes, logs can be prepped and baked the day of your event for freshest results.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Task	Time
Prepare Dough	15 min
Chill Dough	20–30 min
Roll Out & Assemble	30 min
Chill Logs	2 hours
Bake Cookies	9–12 min
Cool	5 min
Total	3 hr 34 min

Serving Suggestions

• Arrange on a festive platter for holiday parties.
• Pair with a warm cup of cocoa or tea.
• Stack in a decorative tin for gift-giving.

Recipe Variations

1. Peppermint Pinwheels: Add ½ tsp peppermint extract to dough.
2. Mini Pinwheels: Slice logs thinner for bite-sized treats.
3. Chocolate Pinwheels: Mix 2 tbsp cocoa powder into one half of the dough.
4. Sprinkle Explosion: Roll edges in rainbow or themed holiday sprinkles for extra fun.

Ingredient Spotlight

Unsalted Butter: Key for tender, flavorful dough. Keep cold for easier rolling.

Gel Icing Colors: Provide vibrant, festive hues without altering dough texture. A little goes a long way.

Pro Baking Tips

• Chill for Success: Cold dough keeps pinwheels neat and prevents spreading.
• Roll Evenly: Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain rectangular shape.
• Gentle Slicing: Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to avoid squished edges.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Room Temperature: Airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing Dough Logs: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap for up to 1 month. Slice and bake directly from frozen.
• Reheating: Warm slightly in the microwave or oven for a fresh-baked feel.

Expanded Conclusion

Christmas Pinwheel Cookies are a festive, fun, and delicious addition to any holiday baking lineup. With their vibrant red and green swirls, tender buttery texture, and customizable decorations, they bring joy both to the baker and the eater.

Perfect for cookie trays, gift boxes, or cozy afternoons with family, these cookies are as joyful to make as they are to eat. From the bright, cheerful pattern to the rich, buttery flavor, every bite captures the magic of the holiday season.

Bring these pinwheel cookies to your next holiday gathering, and watch them disappear in minutes—because who can resist a bite of buttery, festive goodness?

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