Pinwheel Sugar Cookies
Pinwheel sugar cookies are a delightful treat that combines the fun of colorful design with the comforting flavor of classic sugar cookies. These eye-catching cookies feature layers of vibrant red and green, making them perfect for festive occasions or holiday gatherings. The moment you slice through the chilled dough to reveal the swirls, you’ll know they’re special enough to impress family and friends. This recipe not only brings joy to your kitchen but also creates cherished memories around the table.
What makes this recipe special
If you’re wondering why to make pinwheel sugar cookies, the answer is simple: they’re irresistibly delicious and wonderfully festive! With their cheerful colors and buttery flavor, these cookies elevate any occasion. They’re perfect for holidays, birthday parties, or simply as a fun baking project with the kids. Plus, they’re budget-friendly and come together quickly, making them a fantastic option for both beginner and seasoned bakers.
"These cookies are the highlight of our holiday baking traditions! The colors are vibrant, and the flavor is just divine!" – Anna T.
Preparing Pinwheel Sugar Cookies
Crafting these delightful pinwheel sugar cookies is an enjoyable process that results in stunning treats. The steps are straightforward, and you’ll find gathering your ingredients and preparing the dough is half the fun! Start by preheating your oven and lining your baking sheets. The dough will be rolled and layered, creating those iconic swirls that everyone adores. Get ready for a baking adventure!
Gather these items
To make these festive pinwheel sugar cookies, here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- Red and green food coloring
Optional note: If you’re looking for dietary swaps, you can replace the almond extract with additional vanilla if allergies are a concern.
Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, followed by the vanilla and almond extracts until well combined.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredient mixture until fully incorporated.
- Divide the dough into three equal parts. Keep one portion uncolored, then add red to one part and green to the other, mixing until the colors are well blended.
- Roll each colored dough portion between sheets of parchment paper into rectangles about 1/4 inch thick.
- Layer the dough rectangles on top of each other in the order of red, white, green. Roll them tightly into a log, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the fridge for at least one hour.
- Once chilled, slice the log into cookies about 1/4 inch thick.
- Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Best ways to enjoy it
When serving pinwheel sugar cookies, presentation is key! Arrange them on a festive platter, perhaps with additional decorations like a sprinkle of powdered sugar or edible glitter for extra flair. Pair these cookies with a warm glass of milk or hot cocoa for a delightful snack. They also make a fantastic gift when packaged in pretty tins or boxes for friends and family.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To keep your leftover pinwheel sugar cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will typically last about 1 week. For extended storage, consider freezing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transferring them to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, simply let them thaw at room temperature.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few tips to ensure your pinwheel sugar cookies turn out perfectly:
- Ensure your butter is softened, as it helps create that airy texture when creaming with sugar.
- Chill the dough well before slicing; this makes it easier to cut cleanly and maintain the layers.
- If you’re pressed for time, you can freeze the log of cookie dough as soon as it’s shaped. Simply slice and bake when you’re ready!
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative with these cookies! You can experiment with different colors for various holidays or add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a seasonal twist. For a chocolate version, try replacing a small portion of the flour with cocoa powder. There’s no limit to how you can customize these delicious cookies!
Common questions
What is the prep time for pinwheel sugar cookies?
The total prep time is about 30 minutes, but don’t forget to account for the chilling time of at least an hour.
Can I use margarine in place of butter?
You can substitute margarine, but keep in mind that it may alter the flavor and texture slightly.
How do I avoid spreading during baking?
Chilling the dough thoroughly is key! If you’re experiencing spreading, consider chilling the shaped cookies for an additional 10 minutes before baking.
Bake these pinwheel sugar cookies today and enjoy the colorful delight they bring to your table!
Pinwheel Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, followed by the vanilla and almond extracts until well combined.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredient mixture until fully incorporated.
- Divide the dough into three equal parts. Keep one portion uncolored, then add red to one part and green to the other, mixing until the colors are well blended.
- Roll each colored dough portion between sheets of parchment paper into rectangles about 1/4 inch thick.
- Layer the dough rectangles on top of each other in the order of red, white, green. Roll them tightly into a log, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the fridge for at least one hour.
- Once chilled, slice the log into cookies about 1/4 inch thick.
- Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
