Delicious Peppermint Swirl Cookies Recipe for the Holidays Recipe

Introduction

These Delicious Peppermint Swirl Cookies are a festive treat perfect for the holidays. With a vibrant red and white swirl and a burst of refreshing peppermint flavor, they’re sure to delight family and friends. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make at home!

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Red food coloring
• Crushed candy canes

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Step 3: Beat in the large egg and peppermint extract until well combined.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Step 5: Split the dough in half. Leave one half plain, and add a few drops of red food coloring to the other half. Mix until the color is evenly distributed.
6. Step 6: Take a portion of the red dough and a portion of the plain dough. Roll each into a log about 1 inch in diameter. Place the two logs next to each other and gently press them together. Roll the combined dough slightly to blend the colors, keeping the swirls distinct.
7. Step 7: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
8. Step 8: Remove the dough from the fridge. Slice the logs into ¼-inch thick rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
9. Step 9: Sprinkle the tops of each cookie with crushed candy canes.
10. Step 10: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly soft but will firm up as they cool.
11. Step 11: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

• For a stronger peppermint flavor, add an extra ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract.
• Use gel food coloring if possible, as it provides more vibrant colors without thinning the dough.
• Try mixing crushed dark chocolate instead of candy canes on top for a different twist.

Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the baked cookies in a sealed container for up to three months. To reheat, let the cookies thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in a low oven to regain their crispness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 24 hours before slicing and baking.

What if I don’t have peppermint extract?

You can substitute vanilla extract for a milder flavor, but the peppermint taste is what makes these cookies special. For a similar minty effect, try adding a few drops of spearmint extract.