Name: Deliciously Colorful Christmas Pinwheel Cookies to Wow Guests
Prep time: 60 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 105 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened); 1 cup Granulated Sugar; 1 teaspoon Almond Extract; 1 large Egg; 3 cups All-Purpose Flour; few drops Red Food Coloring; few drops Green Food Coloring; 1 cup Christmas Sprinkles (optional)

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As the holiday season rolls around, the scent of fresh cookies wafting through the kitchen brings back cherished memories of family gatherings. This year, I’ve decided to whip up a batch of Christmas Pinwheel Cookies—vibrant, festive treats that add a splash of color to any cookie platter. Crafted with simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, these delightful cookies are not only impressively eye-catching but also a breeze to make. They’re perfect for holiday parties or cozy evenings spent with loved ones as you share stories over cocoa. Ready to create some holiday magic? Let’s dive into how to make these unforgettable Christmas Pinwheel Cookies!

Why Are Christmas Pinwheel Cookies Special?

Festive, Vibrant Design: The eye-catching swirls of color make these cookies a visual delight, perfect for holiday parties.
Simple Ingredients: With pantry staples like butter and sugar, you can whip up a batch with ease.
Chewy Texture: Enjoy the delightful chewiness that makes each bite irresistible.
Customizable: Feel free to experiment with flavors and sprinkles—try these with Lemon Raspberry Cookies for a different twist!
Crowd-Pleaser: Their festive look and deliciousness will impress guests of all ages, making them a hit at any gathering.

Christmas Pinwheel Cookies Ingredients

These simple ingredients bring the festive spirit to life!

For the Dough

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; use salted butter if that’s what you have—just reduce any added salt.
Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and helps with cookie spread during baking; organic cane sugar works well too.
Almond Extract – Enhances flavor with a nutty undertone; can be swapped with vanilla extract for a different taste.
Egg – Binds ingredients together for better structure; a flax egg serves as a great vegan substitute.
All-Purpose Flour – The cornerstone of cookie structure; gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free option, just add xanthan gum for better texture.

For the Color

Red/Green Food Coloring – Gives cookies their festive hues; consider natural coloring options, though results may vary.

For the Finishing Touch

Christmas Sprinkles – Adds a fun, festive flair to the cookie edges; optional but highly recommended for a holiday vibe.

With these simple ingredients, you’re already on your way to creating your delicious Christmas Pinwheel Cookies!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Pinwheel Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Dough
Start by creaming together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Then, add 1 whole egg, 1 egg yolk, and 1 teaspoon of almond extract, mixing until fully incorporated. This will form the foundation for your delicious Christmas Pinwheel Cookies.

Step 2: Incorporate Flour
Gradually add in 3 cups of all-purpose flour on low speed, mixing until combined. Once incorporated, increase the speed and mix until a soft dough forms, about 1-2 minutes. To ensure your dough maintains its shape, aim for a consistency that holds together without being sticky, which is vital for cutting and rolling your Christmas Pinwheel Cookies.

Step 3: Color Dough
Divide your dough into three equal portions. Keep one portion plain, and color the remaining two portions with red and green food coloring respectively by adding a few drops and kneading until uniform shades are achieved. You want each color to be vibrant since they will create the festive swirls in your Christmas Pinwheel Cookies, so mix thoroughly until you’re satisfied with the hues.

Step 4: Roll Out
On a lightly floured surface, roll each colored dough out to a thickness of ¼ inch. Layer the red and green dough over the plain dough, ensuring the edges meet evenly. This step requires gentle yet firm rolling to create a cohesive sheet, as this vibrant layering will be the highlight of your Christmas Pinwheel Cookies’ appearance.

Step 5: Form Log
Starting from one edge, carefully roll the layered dough tightly into a log shape, ensuring the seam is on the bottom to create a seamless finish. Make sure to apply equal pressure as you roll to maintain the even thickness throughout your log. This step is crucial for achieving beautiful spirals in your Christmas Pinwheel Cookies once sliced.

Step 6: Chill
Once your log is shaped, roll it in festive Christmas sprinkles, pressing gently to ensure they adhere nicely. Wrap the log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough is essential as it prevents the cookies from spreading during baking, helping to maintain their vibrant colors and beautiful pinwheel design.

Step 7: Preheat Oven
While your log is chilling, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Preheating ensures that your Christmas Pinwheel Cookies bake evenly and achieve the perfect texture. The aroma of warming spices and sugar will soon fill your kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around for cookie time!

Step 8: Slice and Bake
After chilling, remove the log from the refrigerator and slice it into ¼-inch thick rounds. Place each slice on your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about an inch apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers of the cookies look just lightly glossy. This timing will help keep your cookies soft and chewy.

Step 9: Cool
Once baked, remove your Christmas Pinwheel Cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. After they have slightly cooled and firmed up, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial to achieving the desired texture, ensuring that your cookies are chewy and deliciously festive!

Expert Tips for Christmas Pinwheel Cookies

Chill the Dough: Essential for preventing cookie spread and maintaining that lovely pinwheel look during baking. Don’t skip this step!
Don’t Overbake: Remove them from the oven when the centers are set but still glossy, ensuring a chewy texture in your cookies.
Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheets helps prevent sticking and promotes even baking for your colorful Christmas Pinwheel Cookies.
Precise Slicing: For perfect pinwheels, use a sharp knife and cut straight down into the log without dragging, maintaining the integrity of the spiral.
Experiment with Flavor: Feel free to swap almond extract for vanilla or peppermint, giving your Christmas Pinwheel Cookies a personal twist!

Christmas Pinwheel Cookies Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these delightful cookies to suit your taste and dietary preferences!

Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, adding xanthan gum for better texture.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute instead of unsalted butter to keep it plant-based.
Chocolate Twist: Mix in ½ cup of cocoa powder for a chocolatey version, adding some more powdered sugar if needed for sweetness.
Minty Fresh: Swap almond extract with peppermint extract to create a refreshing, holiday-inspired flavor.

Engage your senses by imagining the warm aroma of peppermint filling your kitchen as you bake!

Fruity Delight: Add in ½ cup of finely chopped dried cranberries or cherries for a burst of fruity flavor and added texture.
Nutty Crunch: Stir in ½ cup of finely chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a delightful crunch in every bite.

And if you’re excited about more festive treats, check out these Lemon Raspberry Cookies for a refreshing twist or Chocolate Chip Cookies to satisfy your classic cravings!

Spice It Up: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or ginger for a warm kick that complements the festive season perfectly.

What to Serve with Festive Christmas Pinwheel Cookies

Sharing a batch of Christmas Pinwheel Cookies means creating a warm, inviting atmosphere, perfect for holiday cheer.

Hot Cocoa: The rich, chocolate flavor enhances the cookies’ sweetness, creating a beloved pairing that warms the heart.
Spiced Apple Cider: This warm beverage’s cinnamon and clove notes beautifully complement the almond flavor in the cookies, adding festive warmth.
Peppermint Bark: The coolness of mint offsets the sweetness of the cookies, providing a refreshing contrast that keeps festivities lively.
Cheesecake Squares: The creamy texture offers a delightful balance, making for an indulgent dessert spread that’s sure to impress any guest.
Nuts and Dried Fruit Platter: Crunchy and chewy, this combination adds a healthy option to your dessert table, balancing out the richness of the cookies.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of silky vanilla ice cream provides a smooth, creamy texture that melts beautifully over the warm cookies.

Let your holiday celebrations sparkle over delightful pairings that enhance the joy of your Christmas Pinwheel Cookies!

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Pinwheel Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough log up to 3 days in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. For longer storage, the dough can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just slice and bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat the oven, slice the chilled log into rounds, and bake until perfectly set. This way, you’ll enjoy chewy, festive cookies that are just as delicious as fresh without any last-minute hassle!

Storage Tips for Christmas Pinwheel Cookies

Airtight Container: Store your Christmas Pinwheel Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain their delicious softness and vibrant colors.

Freezer: If you want to keep them longer, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for best results.

Thawing: To enjoy frozen cookies, simply thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you prefer them warm, pop them in a 350°F oven for a few minutes to refresh their chewy texture.

Reheating: If your cookies have been stored in the fridge, reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in the oven for 5 minutes at 350°F to revive their chewy goodness.

Christmas Pinwheel Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right food coloring for my Christmas Pinwheel Cookies?
When selecting food coloring, opt for gel-based colors to achieve vibrant hues without adding excess liquid to your dough. Avoid liquid food coloring, as it may alter the consistency. For a more natural approach, consider using beet juice for red and spinach juice for green, though results may vary in color vibrancy.

How should I store my Christmas Pinwheel Cookies?
Absolutely! To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This helps preserve their soft and chewy texture. If you want to enjoy them longer, you can freeze the cookies, securely wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag, for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze the cookie dough for Christmas Pinwheel Cookies?
Very much so! To freeze the dough, simply prepare and form the log as instructed, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just slice the frozen log into rounds and bake as directed—no need to thaw first!

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will firm it up, making it easier to roll out. Another option is to sprinkle a bit of flour on your surface and your rolling pin to help manage stickiness. Adding flour a little at a time ensures the dough doesn’t end up too dry.

Are Christmas Pinwheel Cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
If you’re making these cookies for someone with nut allergies, be sure to replace the almond extract with vanilla extract, as nuts may be present in extracts or sprinkles. Always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they are free from cross-contamination with nuts, ensuring a safe treat for everyone.

Why did my cookie colors blend while baking?
The main reason for blending colors is not chilling the dough properly before slicing and baking. Chilling helps prevent cookie spread and keeps your vibrant colors distinct. Additionally, be sure to handle the dough gently and don’t overmix once the colors are added, as overworking can lead to swirls blending during baking.