Peppermint Swirl Cookies:

The holidays are a time for warmth, family, and, of course, delicious treats! And what better way to celebrate the season than with these gorgeous Peppermint Swirl Cookies? These cookies aren’t just visually stunning with their vibrant red and white swirls; they also deliver a delightful burst of peppermint flavor that perfectly captures the essence of Christmas. Imagine the smiles as you share these cookies, their festive appearance and minty taste invoking cherished memories and creating new ones. Trust me, these cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

I’ve been baking for over 15 years, and I’ve always been drawn to recipes that are both beautiful and delicious. I’ve perfected these Peppermint Swirl Cookies over several holiday seasons, tweaking the recipe to achieve the perfect balance of flavor and texture. This recipe uses a simple sugar cookie base, but the addition of peppermint extract and the swirling technique elevate it to something truly special. Plus, with peppermint trending year after year during the holidays, these cookies are always a hit and perfect for gifting or enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these festive delights. Understanding the role of each ingredient will help you achieve the best possible results!

• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the structure of the cookie. I recommend using unbleached all-purpose flour for the best flavor. Too much flour can result in dry cookies, so measure carefully.
• Baking Powder: A leavening agent that helps the cookies rise and become tender. Ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal results; it loses its effectiveness over time.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and balances the sweetness.
• Unsalted Butter: Provides richness and tenderness. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy creaming. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the amount of salt in the recipe.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cookies and helps create a crisp edge.
• Egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture. Use a large egg at room temperature.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies. Use pure vanilla extract for the best results.
• Peppermint Extract: The key ingredient for that refreshing peppermint flavor! Start with a small amount and add more to taste.
• Red Food Coloring (Gel): Creates the vibrant red swirl. Gel food coloring is preferred over liquid as it’s more concentrated and won’t affect the consistency of the dough.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Be sure it contains xanthan gum for structure.
• Vegan Option: Replace the butter with vegan butter sticks, the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes), and ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly.
• Extract Alternatives: If you don’t have peppermint extract, you can use ½ teaspoon of mint extract with ¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract to get a similar flavor profile.

Expert Tips

Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to ensure these Peppermint Swirl Cookies turn out perfectly every time. Here are my top tips:

• Chill the Dough: This is crucial! Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes (or even longer) prevents the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.
• Don’t Overbake: Overbaked cookies will be dry and brittle. Bake just until the edges are lightly golden brown.
• Even Slices: Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to slice the dough log evenly. This will ensure that all the cookies are the same size and bake uniformly.
• Adjust Peppermint Extract: Start with a smaller amount of peppermint extract and adjust to your preference. Remember, a little goes a long way!
• Experiment with Swirls: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your swirls! You can try different techniques to achieve unique patterns.

Storage

To keep your Peppermint Swirl Cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Place the cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

FAQ

Why are my cookies spreading too much?

Cookies spreading too much usually indicates that the dough was not chilled sufficiently or that the butter was too soft. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes and that your butter is softened but still cool to the touch.

Can I use liquid food coloring instead of gel?

While you can use liquid food coloring, gel food coloring is preferred because it’s more concentrated and won’t affect the consistency of the dough. If using liquid, you may need to use more to achieve the desired color, which could make the dough slightly wetter.

How can I make the red color more vibrant?

For a more vibrant red color, use a high-quality gel food coloring specifically designed for baking. You can also let the dough sit for a while after adding the food coloring, as the color tends to deepen over time.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough! Wrap the dough log tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before slicing and baking.

What if I don’t have peppermint extract?

If you don’t have peppermint extract, you can use ½ teaspoon of mint extract with ¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract to get a similar flavor profile. You could also use crushed peppermint candies, but adjust the sugar in the recipe accordingly.

How do I prevent the cookies from sticking to the baking sheet?

To prevent sticking, use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to line your baking sheet. This will also make cleanup easier.

Can I add chocolate chips to these cookies?

Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips (white chocolate or dark chocolate would be delicious) is a great way to customize these cookies. Simply fold them into the dough before shaping it into a log.

These Peppermint Swirl Cookies are more than just a treat; they’re a celebration of the holiday spirit! With their festive appearance and refreshing peppermint flavor, they are sure to bring joy to everyone who tries them. So, gather your ingredients, put on some holiday music, and get ready to bake up a batch of these delightful cookies. Don’t forget to share your creations and tag me in your photos! Happy baking, and happy holidays!

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