Name: Festive Peppermint Swirl Cookies for Holiday Cheer
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 160 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (Substitute with gluten-free flour blend if needed.); 1 teaspoon baking powder (Acts as a leavening agent.); 1/4 teaspoon salt (Balances sweetness.); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (Softened for better creaming.); 1 cup granulated sugar (Adds sweetness.); 1 large egg (Binds ingredients together.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Introduces warm notes.); 1 teaspoon peppermint extract (Signature minty taste.); a few drops red gel food coloring (Creates vibrant swirls.)

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As I stood in my kitchen, surrounded by the delightful warmth of holiday spices, the unmistakable scent of peppermint wrapped around me like a cozy blanket. That’s when I knew it was the perfect time to whip up a batch of Peppermint Swirl Cookies. These vibrant, mint-infused treats are not just a feast for the eyes with their beautiful swirls, but they also promise a delightful balance of crisp edges and soft, tender centers. Perfect for festive gatherings or simply indulging on a cozy afternoon, this easy recipe allows bakers of all skill levels to create tempting, bakery-perfect cookies right at home. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—you can easily switch up the flavors to make them your own! Are you ready to add a touch of holiday magic to your cookie tray?

Why are Peppermint Swirl Cookies special?

Festive Flavor Explosion: These cookies showcase the iconic taste of peppermint, making them a delightful treat for the holiday season.

Visual Appeal: With their stunning red and white swirls, they are as breathtaking as they are delicious, sure to be the star of any cookie platter.

Versatile Variations: Experiment with different flavors by swapping extracts or colors, allowing you to craft a version that satisfies your taste buds perfectly.

Easy to Bake: Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned baker, this recipe is approachable for all skill levels, making it a fun activity for friends and family.

Great for Gifting: Present these cookies in decorative boxes for thoughtful holiday gifts that spread joy and cheer to loved ones.

Indulge in these delightful Peppermint Swirl Cookies alongside your favorite hot cocoa, and you’ll find yourself in a delightful winter wonderland!

Peppermint Swirl Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Base

All-purpose flour – Essential for structure; substitute with gluten-free flour blend if needed.
Baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent to ensure a light texture.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Unsalted butter – Provides richness; make sure it’s softened for better creaming.
Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and a fluffy texture when creamed with butter.
Large egg – Binds ingredients together and helps retain moisture.
Vanilla extract – Introduces warm notes to complement the peppermint flavor.
Peppermint extract – Gives these Peppermint Swirl Cookies their signature minty taste.

For the Color and Coating

Red gel food coloring – Creates vibrant swirls without adding moisture; avoid liquid versions.
Coarse sugar or crushed peppermint candies – Adds a crunchy texture and an extra sprinkle of minty goodness on the surface.

With these ingredients at hand, you’re well on your way to creating a batch of festive Peppermint Swirl Cookies that will delight everyone at your holiday gatherings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt until well combined. This ensures your Peppermint Swirl Cookies have a uniform texture and rise evenly. Set the bowl aside to allow the flavors to meld while you move on to the next step.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, combine 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat them together on medium speed for about 3-5 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, which will lend a delightful softness to your cookies.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Now, add one large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed until everything is fully incorporated, about 1-2 minutes. The scent of peppermint will start to fill your kitchen, creating a charming holiday atmosphere.

Step 4: Mix Dry into Wet
Gradually add the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want your dough for the Peppermint Swirl Cookies to be cohesive but still tender. You should see no dry flour remaining, and the dough should form into a ball.

Step 5: Divide and Color Dough
Carefully divide the dough in half, placing one half in a separate bowl. Leave it plain while adding a few drops of red gel food coloring to the other half. Use a spatula to fold the color in, until the dough is beautifully rich and vibrant—this is what creates the lovely swirls!

Step 6: Chill Dough
Wrap each half of the dough tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring there are no gaps for air to escape. Refrigerate the wrapped dough for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps firm up the dough, making it easier to roll later and ensuring clean swirls in your final Peppermint Swirl Cookies.

Step 7: Roll Out Dough
Once chilled, remove the dough from the fridge. On a lightly floured surface, use a rolling pin to roll each colored half into rectangles measuring about 10 by 12 inches, maintaining an even thickness of about 1/4 inch. This step is crucial for achieving the signature swirls and will be visually striking once baked.

Step 8: Layer and Roll
Carefully stack the plain dough on top of the red dough, gently pressing them together to bond. Starting from one long side, roll the dough into a tight log, ensuring the colors swirl attractively. Use your hands to shape it as necessary, creating a beautiful log that will yield stunning cookies.

Step 9: Second Chill
Wrap the dough log in plastic wrap again, ensuring it’s well sealed, and chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours. This second chilling is vital for firming up the dough, which makes slicing easier and keeps the dough from spreading too much when baking.

Step 10: Preheat Oven
After the dough has chilled, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper, readying them for your delicious Peppermint Swirl Cookies. The anticipation of that festive aroma filling your kitchen will be delightful.

Step 11: Slice Cookies
Once the dough log is firm, carefully remove it from the fridge. Optionally, roll the log in coarse sugar or crushed peppermint candies for added texture and flavor. Using a very sharp knife, slice the log into 1/4-inch rounds, ensuring each cookie shows off its beautiful swirls.

Step 12: Bake Cookies
Place the sliced cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft. Keep a close eye to prevent overbaking, as the cookies continue to firm up while cooling.

Step 13: Cool
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The visual beauty of your Peppermint Swirl Cookies will shine through as they set, ready to be enjoyed alongside a cozy cup of cocoa.

How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to 5-7 days. To keep them fresh, place a slice of bread in the container; it helps maintain moisture.

Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate them for up to 1 week; however, it’s best to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.

Freezer: Freeze the baked Peppermint Swirl Cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1 hour, then transfer to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 1 month.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, reheat straight from the freezer in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, allowing their delightful aroma to fill your kitchen once again!

What to Serve with Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Every sip and bite can take you on a cozy, festive journey, making your gatherings even more special.

Hot Cocoa: Rich and creamy, this classic pairing enhances the peppermint flavor, creating a warming, indulgent experience on chilly evenings.
Coffee: The robust notes of coffee contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies, making them an excellent companion for your morning or afternoon break.
Peppermint Tea: Light and refreshing, this herbal option echoes the minty essence of the cookies, perfect for those seeking a soothing drink.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the crisp edges and soft centers of the cookies, balancing sweetness with cold, velvety richness.
Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake slices offer a rich and tangy contrast that plays beautifully against the festive peppermint swirls.
Fruit Platter: Fresh fruits like strawberries and oranges add a refreshing burst, cleansing the palate and enhancing the festive atmosphere of your gathering.
Holiday Punch: Serve a festive holiday punch for a cheerful non-alcoholic choice that echoes the season’s spirit while refreshing your guests.
Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels dipped in chocolate adds delightful contrast, appealing to both sweet and savory cravings.

Expert Tips for Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Butter Temperature: Use softened butter at room temperature for easier creaming. This helps incorporate air for that light, fluffy texture your Peppermint Swirl Cookies deserve.
Chill Time Matters: Don’t skip the chilling steps. Properly chilling the dough keeps it firm and manageable, essential for achieving those beautiful swirls in the cookies.
Sharp Knife: Always use a very sharp knife for slicing the log. A dull knife can squish the dough and ruin the pretty swirls you worked hard to create.
Watch the Oven: Keep a close eye on the cookies while they bake; they can go from perfectly golden to overbaked in a flash. Remember, they’ll firm up as they cool!
Color Caution: If you notice the colors bleeding, ensure your dough is adequately chilled before rolling and work quickly on a lightly floured surface. This will help maintain those beautiful swirls.

Peppermint Swirl Cookies: Fun Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these delightful cookies in a multitude of ways!

Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum for a similar texture without gluten.
Color Swap: Use different gel food colorings to create unique cookie designs, like green for a festive touch or blue for a winter wonderland theme.
Extract Twist: Try almond or orange extracts instead of peppermint for an intriguing flavor makeover. Each variation brings a new taste while still being delicious.
Chocolate Delight: Add mini chocolate chips to the dough for a delightful chocolate-peppermint fusion. The sweetness of chocolate adds a wonderful depth to these festive cookies.
Minty Crunch: Incorporate crushed peppermint candies directly into the dough for added texture and an extra minty blast in every bite.
Dairy-Free: Swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter to cater to those with dairy sensitivities.
Spice it Up: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spicy twist that still pairs beautifully with the peppermint flavor.
Serving Suggestion: Enjoy these cookies with a warm cup of hot cocoa, just like you would with my favorite Chocolate Chip Cookies for the perfect winter treat.

No matter which variation you choose, these Peppermint Swirl Cookies are sure to impress your family and friends this holiday season!

Make Ahead Options

These Peppermint Swirl Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 2 days in advance by wrapping the unbaked log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating it. Alternatively, for longer storage, the raw cookie dough can be frozen for up to 2-3 months; just make sure to wrap it securely to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy these festive treats, simply slice the chilled log and bake as directed. This prep-ahead method ensures you can enjoy delicious, bakery-quality Peppermint Swirl Cookies with minimal effort when needed!

Peppermint Swirl Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right peppermint extract?
Absolutely! When choosing peppermint extract, opt for pure extracts over imitation ones for a more robust flavor. Look for darker bottles to protect the extract from light, as this helps preserve its potent aroma and flavor. It should have a fresh, minty smell that makes your taste buds tingle!

What’s the best way to store my Peppermint Swirl Cookies?
To keep these delightful treats fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5-7 days. A clever trick I often use is placing a slice of bread inside the container—this helps retain moisture and keeps your cookies soft and delightful.

Can I freeze Peppermint Swirl Cookies?
Certainly! To freeze your cookies, first place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour. Once they’re frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to bring back that freshly baked texture.

How do I prevent my cookie dough from spreading too much when baking?
Very good question! The key to preventing spreading lies in adequately chilling the dough, as it firms up the butter. Ensure you chill the dough for at least 2 hours before baking and watch your oven temperature closely. Further, use the recommended measurements without substituting ingredients unnecessarily, as this can impact texture.

Are these cookies safe for my pets?
No, it’s best to keep Peppermint Swirl Cookies away from pets. Ingredients like chocolate and high sugar content can be harmful to dogs and cats, so ensure they stick to their treats while you enjoy these festive delights guilt-free. Always check with a vet if you’re unsure about what human foods are safe for your furry friends!

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make gluten-free Peppermint Swirl Cookies, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for one that contains xanthan gum to mimic the texture. It might take a little experimentation, but many gluten-free mixes will yield delicious results!