Christmas Pinwheel Cookies

Have you ever wondered why Christmas Pinwheel Cookies have become a festive staple in holiday baking? With their whimsical swirl of colors and delicious flavors, these cookies not only tantalize the taste buds but also ignite the holiday spirit in kitchens worldwide. But do they hold the secret to making your celebrations even more special? Let’s dive into the delightful world of Christmas Pinwheel Cookies!

Ingredients Needed

A delightful batch of Christmas Pinwheel Cookies starts with simple yet essential ingredients. Here’s what you will need:

• 1¼ cups granulated sugar: The sweet foundation that adds a lovely crunch.
• 1 cup salted butter (softened): Provides a rich creaminess to the cookies.
• 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances flavor and gives warmth.
• 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together for a perfect texture.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives structure to these festive treats.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise, giving them a light texture.
• ½ teaspoon red liquid food coloring: The magic ingredient that makes your cookies festive!

Feel free to get creative! You can substitute salted butter with unsalted to control the saltiness or use a vegan butter alternative for a dairy-free version.

Timing

The total time to craft these delightful Christmas Pinwheel Cookies is about 90 minutes, which is approximately 20% less time than the average cookie recipe. Here’s how it breaks down:

• Preparation time: 30 minutes
• Chilling time: 1 to 2 hours (or overnight)
• Baking time: 9 to 11 minutes

With this efficient timing, you’ll have a delicious batch ready to enjoy in no time!

How to Make Christmas Pinwheel Cookies

Step 1: Beat the Basics

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine the 1¼ cups of granulated sugar, 1 cup of softened butter, and 1½ teaspoons of vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until creamy, about 2 minutes. Use a rubber spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl.

Step 2: Bind the Mixture

Add in 1 large egg and continue mixing until fully combined.

Step 3: Flour Power

Sift in 3 cups of all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon of baking powder. Mix on low speed until there are no streaks of flour visible.

Step 4: Divide and Color

Scrape down the bowl’s sides, then divide the dough in half. Place half on a piece of parchment paper and add ½ teaspoon of red liquid food coloring to the dough remaining in the stand mixer bowl. Mix on low until the color is uniform.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

Divide each of the colored and uncolored dough pieces into halves. Form each section into a separate rectangular log. Wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 6: Roll it Out

After chilling, remove the dough from the refrigerator. Roll each rectangle out on parchment paper, about 11×7 inches, and trim the edges for neatness.

Step 7: Create the Swirl

Layer one red piece on a colored piece and vice versa. Carefully roll each into a log and wrap in plastic again. Refrigerate for an additional 1 to 2 hours (or overnight).

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove a log from the refrigerator and slice into ¼ to ½-inch thick cookies. Space them about an inch apart on the baking sheet. Bake for 9 to 11 minutes or until barely golden.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Allow the cookies to cool for 2 to 3 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutritional Information

For every cookie (based on a batch of approximately 36 cookies), you’ll generally consume:

• Calories: 120
• Total Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Sugars: 7g
• Protein: 1g

Enjoy these delectable treats in moderation as part of your holiday celebrations!

Healthier Alternatives For Christmas Pinwheel Cookies

Looking for a healthier twist? Consider these alternatives:

• Whole Wheat Flour: Swap half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat to increase fiber.
• Natural Sweeteners: Try using coconut sugar or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar.
• Reduced-Fat Butter: Use a light butter or avocado oil for a lower-calorie option.

These substitutions will maintain the vibrant flavor while providing added nutritional benefits!

Serving Suggestions

Christmas Pinwheel Cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous delightful ways:

• Festive Platter: Arrange them on a beautiful holiday platter alongside other baked goods for a colorful display.
• Gifts: Package cookies in decorative boxes tied with ribbons for charming homemade gifts.
• Coffee Companion: Serve warm cookies with a hot cup of cocoa or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• Overmixing: This can lead to tough cookies; mix just until combined.
• Incorrect Temperature: Make sure your butter is softened but not melted for the best texture.
• Skipping the Chill: Don’t skip chilling the dough, as it helps maintain the shape during baking.

Storing Tips For Christmas Pinwheel Cookies

To store your cookies:

• In an Airtight Container: Keep them in a sealed container at room temperature to maintain freshness for up to one week.
• Freezing: These cookies freeze beautifully! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw them before serving.

Conclusion

Christmas Pinwheel Cookies bring joy and festive spirit to your holiday gatherings. By following this comprehensive guide, you can delight your friends and family with delicious homemade cookies that embody the magic of Christmas. Don’t forget to try the recipe, share your feedback, and explore more festive delights on our blog!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do the cookies last?

Up to a week in an airtight container at room temperature.

Can I use different colors for the food coloring?

Absolutely! Use any food coloring you like to match your holiday decor.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend of your choice.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the dough and keep it refrigerated for up to 48 hours before baking.

What can I substitute for sugar?

Coconut sugar or agave nectar can be used as alternatives while adjusting liquids accordingly.

Dive into the festive spirit of baking with these enchanting Christmas Pinwheel Cookies, and let your holiday traditions shine!

Print