If you dream of sweet, festive treats, Peppermint Swirl Cookies are for you! These colorful cookies bring joy to any holiday gathering. Imagine biting into a soft, minty cookie with a delightful swirl of red and green. In this post, I’ll guide you through easy steps, share tips for the perfect bake, and offer fun variations. Let’s make your holiday baking both simple and delicious!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Festive Flavor: The combination of peppermint and vanilla creates a delightful holiday flavor that everyone loves.
- Visual Appeal: The vibrant red and green swirls make these cookies a stunning addition to any holiday platter.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Perfect for Gifting: Packaged beautifully, these cookies make a lovely homemade gift for friends and family during the holidays.
Ingredients
To make Peppermint Swirl Cookies, you’ll need a few simple items. Here’s the list of ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies
– Red and green gel food coloring
– Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Each ingredient plays a key role. The flour gives the cookies structure. Baking powder helps them rise. Salt adds flavor, while butter and sugar create a rich base. The egg binds the dough, and extracts give it that sweet peppermint flavor. Crushed peppermint candies add crunch and a burst of minty taste. Food coloring makes the cookies festive and fun. Finally, powdered sugar can make them look extra special.
With these ingredients ready, you’re set to create a delightful holiday treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps the cookies bake evenly and not stick.
2. Mix the dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Set this bowl aside for now.
3. Cream the butter and sugar. In a large bowl, beat 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar. Mix until it is light and fluffy. This should take about 3 to 5 minutes.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients. Add in 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract. Mix well. Gradually add the dry mix to the butter mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
Dough Preparation
1. Divide and color the dough. Split the dough in half. In one half, mix in 1/4 cup of crushed peppermint candies. In the other half, add a few drops of red gel food coloring. Stir until you get a bright red color. You can add green too for fun.
2. Shape the cookie dough. Take about 1 tablespoon of each dough and roll them into small balls. Press them together gently, then roll them to form a swirl.
3. Arrange on the baking sheet. Place the cookie dough balls on the lined baking sheet. Leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie. This helps them spread without sticking together.
Baking Process
1. Baking time and tips. Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes. They should be lightly golden at the edges. They may look soft but will harden as they cool.
2. Cooling instructions. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your holiday treat!
Tips & Tricks
Recipe Tips
– Achieving the perfect swirl: To make a good swirl, roll each color into a ball. Press them together softly. Then, roll them gently to blend without mixing too much. This keeps the pretty colors.
– Substitutions for ingredients: If you need to swap an ingredient, try using margarine for butter. You can also use almond extract in place of peppermint. Just keep the flavor balance in mind.
– Creaming butter for optimal texture: Make sure your butter is soft. It should feel like a pillow when you press it. Creaming it with sugar should take about 3-5 minutes. You want it light and fluffy for the best cookie texture.
Presentation Tips
– How to dust with powdered sugar: Use a fine mesh sieve to dust the cookies. Hold it above the cookies and tap lightly. This adds a nice touch without clumping.
– Adding festive decorations: Get creative with toppings! Use crushed peppermint candies, colored sprinkles, or even edible glitter. Just sprinkle them on before the cookies cool for the best stick.
Pro Tips
- Chill the Dough: For easier handling and better shape retention, chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before rolling it into balls.
- Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper prevents the cookies from sticking and ensures even baking.
- Color Swirl Technique: For a more defined swirl, use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the two dough colors together before baking.
- Storage Tips: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for longer freshness.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can easily change the flavor of these cookies. Here are some fun ideas:
– Using different extracts: Instead of peppermint, try almond or orange extract. These will give a unique twist to the cookies. Almond adds a nutty taste, while orange brings a bright citrus note.
– Changing the type of candies: You can swap peppermint candies for crushed chocolate or toffee bits. This change will give the cookies a whole new flavor. Chocolate pairs well with vanilla, while toffee adds a nice crunch.
Dietary Variations
These cookies can fit many diets. Here are some options:
– Gluten-free options: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Make sure the blend works for baking. This will help you keep the same texture and flavor.
– Vegan adaptations: Replace the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. Use a flax egg instead of a large egg. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. This will keep your cookies delicious and plant-based.
These variations make it fun to bake. You can create your perfect version of peppermint swirl cookies!
Storage Info
Proper Storage
To keep your Peppermint Swirl Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps keep them soft. You can use a plastic container or a glass jar. Make sure to layer parchment paper between the cookies to avoid sticking.
You can store the cookies at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, place them in the fridge. The fridge can keep them fresh for about two weeks. However, the cookies may lose some of their softness in the fridge.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing these cookies is easy and a great way to save some for later. First, let the cookies cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about two hours until firm. This method prevents them from sticking together.
Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months.
When you want to enjoy a cookie, simply take it out of the freezer. Let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. You can also microwave it for about 10-15 seconds if you prefer a warm cookie.
FAQs
Common Questions
What is the best way to store Peppermint Swirl Cookies?
Store your Peppermint Swirl Cookies in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh. You can place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. They stay good at room temperature for about a week. For longer storage, put them in the fridge.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Then, store it in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze the dough. Just thaw it in the fridge before you bake.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading?
To stop cookies from spreading too much, chill the dough before baking. After shaping, place the dough in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape while baking.
Troubleshooting Tips
What to do if dough is too sticky?
If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. Start with a tablespoon at a time. Mix well after each addition. This will help the dough firm up and be easier to handle.
Fixing crumbled cookies
If your cookies crumble, it may be due to too little fat or overbaking. Make sure to measure butter and sugar correctly. If they are dry, add a little milk to the dough next time. To fix crumbled cookies, you can bake them into a cookie crumble topping for ice cream or yogurt.
Now you have all the tools to bake delicious Peppermint Swirl Cookies. We covered the key ingredients needed, easy steps to prepare the dough, and helpful baking tips to get the best results. Remember, you can also get creative with flavors and dietary options. Store your cookies well to keep them fresh, and troubleshoot any issues that arise. Enjoy sharing these festive treats with friends and family. Happy bakin
