Save Festive sugar cookies with vibrant red-and-white peppermint swirls, perfect for holiday gatherings and gifting.
This cookie platter has become a holiday tradition in my family; everyone loves the festive look and refreshing peppermint flavor.
Ingredients
- Dough: 2 1/2 cups (315 g) all-purpose flour, 3/4 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter softened, 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract, 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
- Coloring: Red gel food coloring
- Garnish (optional): 1/2 cup (70 g) crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2 3 minutes.
- Step 3:
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Beat until combined.
- Step 4:
- Gradually add the flour mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms.
- Step 5:
- Divide dough in half. Add red food coloring to one portion and knead until desired color is achieved. Leave the other half plain.
- Step 6:
- Shape each dough half into a rectangle, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
- Step 7:
- Roll out each dough separately between parchment to a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick.
- Step 8:
- Stack the red dough over the plain dough, peel away the top parchment, and gently press together.
- Step 9:
- Starting from a long side, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes until firm.
- Step 10:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment.
- Step 11:
- Slice the chilled log into 1/4-inch rounds. Arrange on prepared sheets, spacing 2 inches apart.
- Step 12:
- Sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies if desired.
- Step 13:
- Bake for 10 12 minutes, until edges are just set and cookies are no longer shiny.
- Step 14:
- Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Save Sharing these cookies with my family creates joyful holiday memories and festive moments we cherish each year.
Notes
For a stronger mint flavor, increase the peppermint extract slightly. Pair with hot cocoa or peppermint tea for a festive treat.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, electric mixer, measuring cups and spoons, rolling pin, parchment paper, sharp knife, baking sheets, wire rack
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, and dairy (butter). Peppermint candies may contain soy or other allergens check packaging. Always double-check ingredient labels if you have food allergies.
Save These candy cane swirl cookies brighten any holiday table and make delightful gifts for loved ones.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I achieve the perfect swirl pattern?
Divide the dough, color one half with red gel food coloring, then layer and roll both together tightly before chilling. This process ensures a clear peppermint swirl pattern after slicing.
- → Can I increase the peppermint flavor?
Yes, slightly increase the peppermint extract in the dough to enhance the minty aroma without overpowering the balance.
- → Is chilling necessary before baking?
Chilling solidifies the dough, making slicing easier and helping maintain the swirl shape during baking.
- → What is the best way to store these sweets?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze up to one month to maintain freshness and texture.
- → Are crushed peppermint candies required?
They’re optional but add a pleasant crunch and boost the festive peppermint flavor when sprinkled atop before baking.