Name: Peppermint Swirl Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 large egg; 1 tsp peppermint extract; 1 tsp red food coloring (gel-based recommended); 1 tsp baking powder

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The aroma of peppermint, the swirl of festive colors, and the delightful crunch of a cookie melt in your mouth. Peppermint Swirl Cookies are not just treats; they are an experience that dances on your taste buds and warms your spirit. Imagine biting into these vibrant cookies as they release a burst of minty freshness, making them perfect companions for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in. Each bite brings a wave of nostalgia, reminding you of winter wonderlands and joyful celebrations.

Now, let’s get real for a moment—who doesn’t love a cookie that looks like it belongs in a magazine? These Peppermint Swirl Cookies do more than just taste heavenly; they bring joy to any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, baking with kids, or just trying to impress your friends with your culinary skills (and maybe a little magic), these cookies are the answer. Get ready for an amazing flavor experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You'll Love This Peppermint Swirl Cookies

This incredible Peppermint Swirl Cookies transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Peppermint Swirl Cookies:

All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of any great cookie, it provides structure and chewiness.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the deal and helps achieve that lovely crisp texture.
Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over salt levels; it adds richness to our cookies.
Egg: One large egg binds everything together while lending moisture to our delicious treats.
Peppermint Extract: A few drops will elevate the flavor profile to peppermint perfection—use pure extract if possible!
Red Food Coloring: This is essential for creating those stunning swirls; consider using gel-based coloring for intensity.
Baking Powder: Helps our cookies rise perfectly while ensuring they remain light and fluffy.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Peppermint Swirl Cookies:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper—no one likes sticking cookies!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. It’ll take about two minutes using an electric mixer—or five minutes if you’re channeling your inner strongman!

Step 3: Add Egg and Extract

Beat in the egg along with peppermint extract until combined. Enjoy the refreshing aroma wafting up—it’s like Christmas came early!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to your butter mixture, stirring until just combined.

Step 5: Create Your Swirls

Divide the dough in half. Color one half with red food coloring until you reach your desired shade. Roll out both portions into separate logs and twist them together gently before slicing into rounds.

Step 6: Bake Away

Place cookie rounds on prepared baking sheets about two inches apart. Bake for about 10-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft.

Transfer to plates and serve warm or let cool completely before storing in an airtight container for optimal freshness.

Now that you have mastered these delightful Peppermint Swirl Cookies, get ready to share them with family or keep them all to yourself (no judgment here!). With their dazzling appearance and enchanting flavor profile, each bite is sure to spread joy during any occasion!

You Must Know About Peppermint Swirl Cookies

This showstopping Peppermint Swirl Cookies delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by creaming the butter and sugars together until fluffy, then mix in the eggs and vanilla extract. While that’s happening, combine dry ingredients separately. Finally, fold in crushed peppermint candies before baking to create a delightful swirl of flavor.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to switch up the extracts; almond or orange can add a unique twist. For a healthier version, use whole wheat flour or swap in coconut sugar. You can even add chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture and taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store your Peppermint Swirl Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to enjoy them warm later, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds—just enough to bring back their gooey goodness.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Peppermint Swirl Cookies

This professional-quality Peppermint Swirl Cookies relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Baking these cookies reminds me of my cousin’s holiday party where they vanished within minutes! Everyone was raving about the peppermint flavor while I stood there proudly — my secret weapon was finally revealed!

FAQs

What are Peppermint Swirl Cookies?

Peppermint Swirl Cookies are delightful treats that combine the refreshing flavor of peppermint with a sweet, buttery cookie base. These cookies are characterized by their vibrant red and white swirls, reminiscent of candy canes. The unique combination of vanilla and peppermint flavors creates a festive dessert perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion. Whether enjoyed with a cup of hot cocoa or shared with friends, these cookies are sure to delight your taste buds.

How do I make Peppermint Swirl Cookies?

To make Peppermint Swirl Cookies, start by preparing a simple sugar cookie dough. Divide the dough into two portions; mix one half with peppermint extract and red food coloring. Roll out each portion into logs and twist them together to create the iconic swirl effect. Bake until golden brown, allowing the cookies to cool before serving. The process is straightforward and yields deliciously cheerful cookies that everyone will love!

Can I use different flavors in Peppermint Swirl Cookies?

Absolutely! While traditional Peppermint Swirl Cookies feature peppermint flavoring, you can experiment with other extracts like almond or vanilla for a unique twist. Additionally, consider incorporating chocolate chips or nuts for added texture. The versatility of this cookie recipe allows you to customize it to suit your taste preferences while still enjoying the beautiful swirl design.

How long do Peppermint Swirl Cookies last?

Peppermint Swirl Cookies can last up to a week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy them for up to three months without losing flavor or texture. Just thaw them at room temperature before indulging again!

Conclusion

In summary, Peppermint Swirl Cookies are a festive treat that combines delightful flavors and an eye-catching appearance. Making them is easy and allows for creative variations to suit your preferences. Storing these cookies properly ensures that they remain fresh for days or even months if frozen. Whether baked for holidays or special occasions, Peppermint Swirl Cookies will leave a lasting impression on everyone who tries them!