Peppermint Swirl Cookies For are an exciting treat that adds a splash of color and flavor to any holiday gathering. These cookies feature a delightful peppermint taste that evokes the spirit of the season. With their vibrant swirls of red and green, they not only taste fantastic but also look beautiful on your dessert table. As a perfect addition to your festive celebrations, let’s dive into the delicious world of these minty cookies!

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Swirl Cookies For

These peppermint cookies are a must-try for several reasons. First, they offer a refreshing minty flavor that pairs perfectly with holiday festivities. With their stunning visual appeal, they serve as a festive centerpiece for any dessert spread. Additionally, they are simple to make, making them an ideal choice for both novice and experienced bakers. You can also customize them with various decorations, ensuring they fit any occasion. These delightful cookies are perfect for Christmas and other holiday peppermint treats, making them a versatile addition to your baking repertoire. Plus, they can be made in advance, allowing you to enjoy the festive season without stress!

Ingredients for Peppermint Swirl Cookies For

Gather these items:

2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
1 cup of unsalted butter
1 cup of granulated sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon of peppermint extract
½ teaspoon of baking powder
a pinch of salt
red food coloring
green food coloring
peppermint candy canes (crushed)

How to Make Peppermint Swirl Cookies For Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Line a couple of baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Then, add 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract, mixing until well combined.
Step 4: Gradually mix in 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt until just combined.
Step 5: Split the dough into two equal portions. To one half, add a few drops of red food coloring and mix until the color is uniform. To the other half, add green food coloring and mix well.
Step 6: Wrap each portion in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Step 7: Once chilled, take a tablespoon of each color of dough and roll them into logs of equal length. Gently twist the logs together to create a swirl effect, then slice into ½ inch thick discs.
Step 8: Place the cookie discs on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Step 9: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. While they cool, sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for an extra festive touch.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Peppermint Swirl Cookies For

Keep these in mind:

Chill the dough thoroughly to achieve clean swirls.
Use fresh peppermint extract for the best flavor.
Experiment with different colors for a fun twist.
Ensure your baking sheets are lined to prevent sticking.
Remember to check the cookies early to avoid overbaking.

Best Ways to Serve Peppermint Swirl Cookies For

These cookies shine brightly on any dessert table! Serve them alongside hot cocoa or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. You can also package them as gifts for friends and family, making them perfect holiday peppermint treats. For a festive twist, place them in a decorative tin with other minty cookies or seasonal treats.

How to Store and Reheat Peppermint Swirl Cookies For

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you need to keep them longer, consider freezing them. To reheat, simply let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds. This is a great way to enjoy them fresh again!

Frequently Asked Questions About Peppermint Swirl Cookies For

What’s the secret to perfect Peppermint Swirl Cookies For?

The secret lies in chilling the dough adequately to ensure the swirls hold their shape. This technique helps achieve that beautiful marbled effect without blending the colors too much, enhancing both flavor and appearance.

Can I make Peppermint Swirl Cookies For ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and keep it wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it easier to bake fresh cookies whenever you’re ready for a treat during the holiday season.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Peppermint Swirl Cookies For?

To avoid mistakes, ensure your butter is softened but not melted, as this affects the texture. Also, be cautious not to overmix the dough once you add the flour, which can lead to tough cookies. Follow the chilling instructions for perfect swirls!

Variations of Peppermint Swirl Cookies For You Can Try

Looking for some exciting twists? Here are a few ideas:

Vegan peppermint swirl cookies: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg for a plant-based option.
Gluten-free peppermint cookies: Replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend.
Chocolate peppermint swirl cookies: Add cocoa powder to one half of the dough for a chocolatey flavor.
Soft peppermint cookies for the holidays: Reduce baking time slightly for a softer texture.

For more festive recipes, check out our Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze or Cranberry Orange Pancakes. If you’re looking for a delicious drink to pair with your cookies, try our Whipped Honey Coffee.

Peppermint Swirl Cookies For Festive Holiday Treats

Author: basmer
Total Time: 42 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Delicious Peppermint Swirl Cookies for Festive Treats

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a couple of baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Then, add 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract, mixing until well combined.
Gradually mix in 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt until just combined.
Split the dough into two equal portions. To one half, add a few drops of red food coloring and mix until the color is uniform. To the other half, add green food coloring and mix well.
Wrap each portion in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Once chilled, take a tablespoon of each color of dough and roll them into logs of equal length. Gently twist the logs together to create a swirl effect, then slice into ½ inch thick discs.
Place the cookie discs on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. While they cool, sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for an extra festive touch.