Peppermint Pinwheels

There’s something magical about the holidays, and for me, nothing brings that magic to life quite like Peppermint Pinwheels. As a child, I remember the anticipation that came with the first frosty days of winter—when the air turned crisp and the scent of peppermint filled the house. That’s when my family would gather in the kitchen, flour dusting our aprons, ready to create these beautiful cookies. Rolling out the dough and adding vibrant splashes of red food coloring felt like an art project, and the end result was always a masterpiece. These cookies that look as good as they taste are perfect for festive gatherings, and I can’t wait to share this delight with you!

Ingredients Required for Peppermint Pinwheels

In creating Peppermint Pinwheels, the ingredients play a crucial role in bringing flavor, texture, and the vibrant color that makes these cookies special. Each component complements the others, creating a delicious harmony. The star players are the all-purpose flour for structure, butter for richness, and the peppermint extract that delivers that iconic flavor. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need:

• All-Purpose Flour – 2 cups: This provides the necessary structure for the cookies, allowing them to hold their shape while baking.
• Baking Powder – 1/2 teaspoon: Acts as a leavening agent, helping the cookies rise slightly for a softer texture.
• Salt – 1/2 teaspoon: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
• Butter – 3/4 cup, room temperature: Adds richness and moisture, creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Sugar – 3/4 cup: Sweetens the dough and helps achieve a nice golden color when baked.
• Egg Yolk – 1: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together effectively.
• Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon: Provides a warm, sweet flavor that complements the peppermint.
• Peppermint Extract – 1/2 teaspoon: The star ingredient that gives these cookies their refreshing taste.
• Red Food Coloring: For adding a festive touch, transforming half the dough into a vibrant pink!

How to Prepare Peppermint Pinwheels

Making Peppermint Pinwheels is a delightful experience that brings a sense of joy into the kitchen. With every step, you’ll be greeted by wonderful aromas and an exciting transformation of ingredients. Let’s get started on this journey!

1. Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. This step is essential as it helps to eliminate any lumps and ensures that the ingredients are evenly combined. Set this mixture aside for later use.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter and sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes. You should see a pale color change, indicating that air has been incorporated, which will help the cookies rise perfectly.
3. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until fully incorporated. The addition of the yolk enriches the dough, adding moisture and color.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture you set aside earlier. Do this slowly to avoid any mess. As you mix, you’ll see the dough start to form. Don’t overmix; just combine until you no longer see any dry flour.
5. Incorporate the peppermint extract into the dough, mixing until well combined. This is where the magic happens; the aroma of peppermint will fill your kitchen!
6. Divide the dough into two equal halves. Take one half and add red food coloring to it, mixing until the color is evenly distributed and you achieve the desired shade of pink. Leave the other half of the dough plain.
7. Roll each half of dough between two pieces of wax paper into rectangles about 16 x 10 inches in size. This method keeps the dough from sticking while you roll it out smoothly.
8. Layer the pink dough on top of the white rectangle, aligning the edges carefully. Then, roll up tightly, starting at the long edge. As you roll, gently peel off the paper, making it easy to form a tight log.
9. Wrap the rolled dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for several hours. This step is crucial as it firms up the dough, making it easier to slice later.
10. Take the dough out and slice it into 1/4-inch thick pieces. Lay the slices flat on an ungreased cookie sheet, spacing them apart to allow for spreading during baking.
11. Bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for 10 minutes or until they are lightly golden and firm to the touch. Be careful not to overbake, as you want them to remain soft inside.
12. Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool completely on racks before serving. The cooling process helps them firm up, making them perfect for enjoying or gifting!

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

Adapting recipes is always a fun way to make them your own! Here are some great tips for customizing Peppermint Pinwheels to suit your taste or occasion:

• Storage: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness. They should stay good for up to a week.
• Freezing: You can freeze the rolled dough before slicing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then store it in a freezer bag for up to three months.
• Pairing: These cookies are delicious with a warm cup of hot chocolate or served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Flavor Variations: Try adding different extracts like almond or hazelnut for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
• Decorating: Get creative with decorations! Drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies or sprinkle them with crushed candy canes for extra flair.

Serve This Peppermint Pinwheels With

When it comes to serving Peppermint Pinwheels, the options are endless! Here are some ideas to make your cookie experience even more delightful:

• Hot Cocoa: Pairing these cookies with a warm cup of hot cocoa is a match made in heaven. The chocolatey flavor complements the refreshing peppermint beautifully.
• Festive Platter: Create a dessert platter with a mix of holiday sweets, including Peppermint Pinwheels, sugar cookies, and fudge for a festive gathering.
• Gifts: Package them in decorative boxes or tins to give as thoughtful homemade gifts during the holiday season. Everyone loves receiving cookies!
• Tea Time: Enjoy these cookies with a cup of your favorite tea for a cozy afternoon treat. The peppermint flavor adds a refreshing touch.
• Celebration Treat: Serve them during festive celebrations, such as Christmas parties or family gatherings. They add a fun and colorful element to the dessert table.

FAQ

Conclusion

Peppermint Pinwheels are not just cookies; they’re a slice of holiday joy! The refreshing blend of peppermint and the festive colors make them a must-have for any winter occasion. I encourage you to try making these delightful treats and share them with your loved ones; they’re sure to brighten up any gathering!

Peppermint Pinwheels

The ultimate festive treat, Peppermint Pinwheels are visually stunning and deliciously refreshing! With their vibrant swirls and melt-in-your-mouth texture, these cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings. Make a batch tonight to delight your family and friends!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 48 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 120

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 1/2 teaspoon Baking Powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 3/4 cup Butter room temperature
• 3/4 cup Sugar
• 1 each Egg Yolk
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
• 1/2 teaspoon Peppermint Extract
• 1 each Red Food Coloring

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Baking Sheet
• Peeler

Method

 

1. Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl; set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat sugar and butter together until light and fluffy.
3. Add egg yolk and vanilla extract. Slowly mix in flour mixture. Mix in extracts until well combined.
4. Divide dough into halves. Add red food coloring to one half until it turns pink. Leave the other half white.
5. Roll each half of dough between two pieces of wax paper. Roll into a 16 x 10 in. rectangle.
6. Place pink dough on top of the white rectangle. Roll up tightly, starting at the long edge and peel the paper off as you roll. Wrap in plastic wrap.
7. Refrigerate for several hours. Slice 1/4 inch thick and place slices on an ungreased cookie sheet.
8. Bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes; or until lightly golden and firm. Remove to racks to cool completely.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• Tip 2: Freeze rolled dough tightly wrapped for up to three months.
• Tip 3: Pair cookies with hot cocoa for a delightful treat.
• Tip 4: Swap peppermint for other extracts for unique flavors.
• Tip 5: Get creative with decorations like melted chocolate or crushed candy canes.

Previous PostReuben Dip

Next Post Dairy Free Roasted Carrot Ginger Soup

Meet Fiona Lewis

I love cooking with the seasons and keeping things rustic and real. I believe the best meals are the ones shared with friends and family. I had so much fun creating this recipe, and I can't wait to hear what you think of it!