Save Pin Festive sugar cookies with vibrant red-and-white peppermint swirls, perfect for holiday gatherings and gifting.
This cozy chicken stew has become a family favorite that warms us during cold evenings.
Ingredients
- Dough: 2 1/2 cups (315 g) all-purpose flour 3/4 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp salt 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar 1 large egg 1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
- Coloring: Red gel food coloring
- Garnish (optional): 1/2 cup (70 g) crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
- Step 3:
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Beat until combined.
- Step 4:
- Gradually add the flour mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms.
- Step 5:
- Divide dough in half. Add red food coloring to one portion and knead until desired color is achieved. Leave the other half plain.
- Step 6:
- Shape each dough half into a rectangle, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
- Step 7:
- Roll out each dough separately between parchment to a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick.
- Step 8:
- Stack the red dough over the plain dough, peel away the top parchment, and gently press together.
- Step 9:
- Starting from a long side, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes until firm.
- Step 10:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment.
- Step 11:
- Slice the chilled log into 1/4-inch rounds. Arrange on prepared sheets, spacing 2 inches apart.
- Step 12:
- Sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies if desired.
- Step 13:
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are just set and cookies are no longer shiny.
- Step 14:
- Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Save Pin These cookies are a holiday tradition for our family, bringing everyone together over sweet treats.
Notes
These cookies freeze well store in an airtight container for up to 1 month Pair with hot cocoa or peppermint tea for a festive treat
Required Tools
Mixing bowls Electric mixer Measuring cups and spoons Rolling pin Parchment paper Sharp knife Baking sheets Wire rack
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, and dairy (butter) Peppermint candies may contain soy or other allergens check packaging Always double-check ingredient labels if you have food allergies
Save Pin
Enjoy your candy cane swirl cookies fresh or frozen for a festive treat anytime.
Questions & Answers
- → How is the candy cane swirl effect achieved?
The dough is divided and colored red in one half, then layered and rolled tightly with the plain dough before slicing, creating the signature swirl.
- → Can the peppermint flavor be intensified?
Yes, slightly increasing the peppermint extract will enhance the minty aroma and taste without overpowering the dough.
- → What is the best way to store these cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze for up to one month to maintain freshness and texture.
- → Are there any allergen considerations?
These contain wheat, eggs, and dairy. Crushed peppermint candies may contain soy or other allergens; check packaging carefully.
- → What tools are needed to create these cookies?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, an electric mixer, rolling pin, parchment paper, sharp knife, and baking sheets.