Save Festive sugar cookies with vibrant red-and-white peppermint swirls, perfect for holiday gatherings and gifting.
I first made these cookies for my family holiday party and they were an instant hit. The swirls are as fun to make as they are to eat.
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 has become a family tradition that brings everyone together during the holidays.
Notes
These cookies freeze well store in an airtight container for up to 1 month 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 festive cookies are sure to brighten your holidays with both color and flavor.
Recipe Help & Answers
- → What creates the red-and-white swirl effect?
The swirl effect comes from dividing the dough into two portions, one tinted red with gel food coloring, then rolling and layering them before shaping into a log and slicing.
- → How is the peppermint flavor incorporated?
Pure peppermint extract is added to the dough, infusing a subtle minty aroma and taste that's complemented by optional crushed peppermint candies sprinkled on top.
- → Why is chilling the dough important?
Chilling firms the dough, making it easier to roll, shape, and slice cleanly, which helps maintain the distinct swirl pattern during baking.
- → What tools are needed for preparation?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, an electric mixer, rolling pin, parchment paper, baking sheets, and a sharp knife for slicing the dough.
- → Can these treats be stored and frozen?
Yes, they freeze well when stored in an airtight container, retaining their texture and flavor for up to one month.