Festive Candy Cane Pinwheel Cookies Recipe: Holiday Magic

Sweet holiday traditions come alive with these delightful candy cane pinwheel cookies that swirl peppermint magic into every delectable bite.

Festive baking reaches new heights of creativity with this eye-catching dessert.

Crimson and white spirals dance together, creating a visual treat that sparkles with seasonal cheer.

Soft, buttery dough transforms into a delicate masterpiece that melts in your mouth.

The classic combination of chocolate and peppermint delivers a nostalgic flavor that warms winter gatherings.

Crisp edges and a smooth texture make these cookies an irresistible addition to any holiday cookie platter.

Bake a batch and watch smiles spread as quickly as these beautiful pinwheels disappear.

Why Holiday Swirl Cookies Stand Out on the Tray

Whip Up Festive Delight: Dive into Holiday Magic with Swirl Cookies

• Create Colorful Memories: Stunning red and white swirled cookies bring instant cheer and wow factor to any holiday gathering, making them perfect for spreading seasonal joy.
• Master Simple Baking Technique: Even beginner bakers can nail these impressive-looking cookies with basic ingredients and straightforward step-by-step instructions that guarantee success.
• Customize with Creativity: Easily switch up colors and decorations to match different celebrations, transforming these cookies into versatile treats for birthdays, parties, or special events.
• Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Kids and adults will love the playful design and delicious taste, making these cookies a guaranteed hit at family gatherings or festive get-togethers.

Holiday Swirl Cookie Ingredient List

• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of the cookie dough that provides structure and texture.
• Butter: Creates a rich and tender base for the holiday swirl cookies.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with the cookie's golden color and crisp edges.
• Egg: Binds the ingredients together and contributes to the cookie's soft texture.

• Red Food Coloring: Provides the vibrant red swirl in the holiday cookies.
• Candy Canes: Adds a festive peppermint crunch and decorative element to the cookies.

• Powdered Sugar: Creates a smooth, sweet icing for dipping the cookie edges.
• Water: Helps thin and blend the powdered sugar into a dippable icing consistency.

Making Swirl Cookies for the Holidays

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 350 degrees Fahrenheit, getting ready for some festive baking magic.

Step 2: Whip the Butter

Grab your mixer and beat the butter and sugar together until they transform into a light, fluffy cloud of sweetness.

Step 3: Introduce the Egg

Gently fold in the egg, mixing just until everything comes together smoothly.

Step 4: Welcome the Flour

Carefully stir in the sifted flour, blending until a soft dough forms without overmixing.

Step 5: Create Two-Tone Dough

Tenderly work the dough with your hands until silky smooth.

Split the dough into two portions, then add a splash of red food coloring to one half, creating a festive color contrast.

Step 6: Chill Out

Shape the dough portions into flat discs, wrap them snugly in plastic wrap, and let them relax in the refrigerator for a quick 15-minute cool-down.

Step 7: Roll with Style

Between sheets of parchment paper, roll each dough half into a rectangular canvas about 8×12 inches wide.

Step 8: Swirl into a Log

Place the red dough on top of the plain dough, leaving a small border.

Using the parchment paper as your guide, carefully roll the doughs into a beautiful spiral log.

Wrap it up and return to the refrigerator for a 30-minute chill session.

Step 9: Slice and Bake

Cut the chilled log into delicate rounds about 1/2 inch thick.

Arrange on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes until the edges turn a gentle golden brown.

Step 10: Craft the Finishing Touch

Whip up a simple glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a splash of water until smooth and glossy.

Step 11: Dress Up the Cookies

Dip the edges of each cookie into the white glaze, then sprinkle with crushed candy canes for a festive crunch.

Let the cookies rest until the icing sets completely before storing in an airtight container.

Tips for Swirling Up the Best Cookies

• Refrigerate dough for the full recommended time to prevent spreading and maintain crisp swirl pattern during baking.
• Use a ruler and parchment paper to ensure even, uniform dough layers for perfect cookie swirls every time.
• Use a sharp, non-serrated knife and clean cuts between each slice to maintain clean cookie edges and beautiful design.
• Grind candy canes into fine, consistent pieces for an even coating and professional-looking cookie decoration.
• Let cookies cool completely before adding icing to prevent melting and ensure a neat, clean finish.

Holiday Swirl Cookie Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free Swirl Cookies: Replace wheat flour with almond or rice flour for a celiac-friendly version that maintains the classic swirl design.
• Vegan Holiday Cookies: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg instead of regular egg to create a plant-based festive treat.
• Chocolate Peppermint Variation: Add cocoa powder to one dough half and use crushed dark chocolate instead of candy canes for a rich winter cookie.
• Low-Sugar Option: Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener in place of traditional sugar, reducing overall calorie content while keeping the festive swirl pattern.

Swirl Cookie Serving Ideas for Parties

• Festive Platter Party: Arrange cookies in a circular wreath pattern on a sparkling white serving plate, creating a beautiful holiday centerpiece.
• Gifting Charm: Package cookies in clear cellophane bags tied with red ribbons, perfect for homemade holiday gifts or cookie exchanges.
• Coffee Companion: Serve alongside hot cocoa or peppermint mocha for a delightful seasonal treat that complements warm winter beverages.
• Dessert Buffet Star: Display on a tiered holiday stand with other Christmas cookies, highlighting their beautiful red and white swirl design.

Swirl Cookie Storage for the Holidays

• Store holiday swirl cookies in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain their delicate swirl design.
• Keep cookies at room temperature for up to 5 days, ensuring they remain fresh and crisp in a sealed container away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
• Freeze undecorated cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months, placing wax paper between layers to prevent breakage and maintain their shape.
• Always store cookies in a cool, dry place to prevent softening or losing their signature crunch, which can happen if exposed to humidity or dampness.

FAQs

• What ingredients make the red color in the cookies?

The red color comes from food coloring tint added to half the cookie dough during the preparation stage.

• Can I make these cookies without food coloring?

Yes, you can skip the red color or use alternative natural food coloring like beet juice or fruit-based colorings.

• How thick should I roll the dough for the best swirl effect?

Roll the dough into an 8×12 inch rectangle and aim for an even, thin layer to create a perfect swirl pattern.

• Are these cookies good for holiday gifting?

Absolutely! These festive swirl cookies look beautiful and taste delicious, making them perfect for holiday gift-giving or cookie exchanges.