If you’re looking for a festive and fun treat to brighten up your holiday gatherings, these Easy Colorful Christmas Pinwheel Cookies are just what you need! These delightful cookies feature a vibrant swirl of red and green dough, making them as beautiful as they are delicious. Perfect for holiday cookie trays or as a sweet gift, these cookies are sure to bring smiles to your loved ones.
What makes these pinwheel cookies so special is their charming appearance and the buttery flavor that everyone loves. With simple ingredients and a fun rolling technique, these Easy Colorful Christmas Pinwheel Cookies will be a delightful addition to your holiday baking!
These Easy Colorful Christmas Pinwheel Cookies feature a buttery dough flavored with vanilla and almond, swirled with bright red and green colors. Ready in about 1 hour (plus chilling time), these cookies are a festive treat that’s sure to impress!
With straightforward ingredients and easy preparation, you can whip up these scrumptious cookies in no time. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Exciting Story:
The first time I made Easy Colorful Christmas Pinwheel Cookies, it was during a busy holiday season, and I wanted to create something visually stunning yet simple. As I prepared the dough and added the festive colors, my kitchen transformed into a holiday wonderland filled with delightful scents of butter and sugar.
Once baked, the cookies looked enchanting with their vibrant swirls. The first bite was pure joy—the buttery flavor combined with the charming appearance made these cookies a hit at our holiday party. These Easy Colorful Christmas Pinwheel Cookies have since become a cherished tradition in our family!
Why These Easy Colorful Christmas Pinwheel Cookies?
- Festive and Fun: The bright colors and swirling patterns make these cookies perfect for holiday celebrations.
- Easy to Make: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this recipe is great for bakers of all levels!
- Customizable: You can use different colors and flavors to suit your preferences.
How to Make Easy Colorful Christmas Pinwheel Cookies
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract, mixing until well combined.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
- Divide the Dough: Divide the dough into three equal portions. Leave one portion plain, and add a few drops of red food coloring to one portion and green food coloring to the other. Mix until the colors are well incorporated.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a piece of parchment paper or wax paper, roll out each colored dough into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Make sure to keep them separate.
- Layer the Dough: Place the green layer on top of the plain layer and the red layer on top of the green layer. Gently press the layers together to stick.
- Roll into a Log: Starting from one end, carefully roll the layered dough into a log shape. Wrap the log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm.
- Slice and Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove the chilled dough log from the refrigerator and slice it into 1/4 inch thick rounds. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve and Enjoy: Your Easy Colorful Christmas Pinwheel Cookies are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them on a festive platter and watch everyone delight in these beautiful treats.
Tips For Easy Colorful Christmas Pinwheel Cookies
- Use Food Coloring Gel: For more vibrant colors, consider using gel food coloring instead of liquid.
- Chill Thoroughly: Make sure the dough is well chilled to help maintain the shape when slicing.
Substitutions and Variations
- Different Extracts: You can use lemon or peppermint extract for a different flavor profile.
- Add Sprinkles: Before baking, sprinkle some festive sprinkles on top for added decoration.
Make a Healthier Version
- Use coconut oil in place of butter and substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
Closing For Easy Colorful Christmas Pinwheel Cookies
And there you have it! These Easy Colorful Christmas Pinwheel Cookies are a delightful and fun treat that will impress anyone who tries them. Don’t forget to let us know how your cookies turn out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes for more delightful holiday goodies!
Frequently Asked Questions For Easy Colorful Christmas Pinwheel Cookies
How long can I store leftovers?
These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked cookie dough log for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before slicing and baking.
What can I use instead of butter?
You can use margarine or coconut oil as a substitute.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! The dough can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The edges should be lightly golden, and the centers may appear soft.
Can I add other flavors?
Yes! Feel free to mix in cocoa powder for a chocolate version or additional spices for a unique twist.
What if I want to make it spicier?
Adding a hint of cinnamon can give your cookies a warm spice!
What sides pair well with these cookies?
Serve with a glass of milk, hot cocoa, or a festive holiday drink!
How can I make this more festive?
Consider using holiday-themed cookie cutters for different shapes!
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
These cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature; it’s not recommended to reheat them.
Can I use flavored extracts in the recipe?
Yes! You can use other extracts to enhance the flavor of your cookies.
How can I enhance the flavors?
Consider adding a drizzle of icing or a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch!
Easy Colorful Christmas Pinwheel Cookies
Course: Cake, Christmas, Cookies Recipe, Occasions, Weight watchers4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcalIngredients
- For the Cookie Dough:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Red and green food coloring
Directions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract, mixing until well combined.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
- Divide the Dough: Divide the dough into three equal portions. Leave one portion plain, and add a few drops of red food coloring to one portion and green food coloring to the other. Mix until the colors are well incorporated.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a piece of parchment paper or wax paper, roll out each colored dough into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Make sure to keep them separate.
- Layer the Dough: Place the green layer on top of the plain layer and the red layer on top of the green layer. Gently press the layers together to stick.
- Roll into a Log: Starting from one end, carefully roll the layered dough into a log shape. Wrap the log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm.
- Slice and Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove the chilled dough log from the refrigerator and slice it into 1/4 inch thick rounds. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve and Enjoy: Your Easy Colorful Christmas Pinwheel Cookies are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them on a festive platter and watch everyone delight in these beautiful treats.