Christmas Pinwheel Cookies

Name: Christmas Pinwheel Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 tsp vanilla extract; Red gel food coloring; Green gel food coloring; Powdered sugar for dusting

Published: November 1, 2025

by samuel cullingham

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Christmas Pinwheel Cookies:

All-Purpose Flour: A staple in baking, this provides the structure needed for our cookies.
Unsalted Butter: Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a rich flavor.
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the cookies perfectly, balancing out the richness of the butter.
Eggs: These bind everything together and add moisture; use large eggs for best results.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of this adds warmth and depth to your cookie dough.
Food Coloring: Get creative with red and green gel food coloring to create those festive pinwheels!
Powdered Sugar: For dusting on top after baking, adding a sweet finish that looks beautiful.

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

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Christmas Pinwheel Cookies:

Step 1: Prepare Your Dough

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in eggs one at a time along with vanilla extract; mix thoroughly until combined.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this mixture into your butter-sugar blend until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Color Your Dough

Divide your dough into two equal parts. In one half, add red food coloring until you achieve your desired shade; in the other half, add green food coloring. You can mix them until they’re vibrant—don’t be shy!

Step 4: Roll Out Your Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out each colored dough between parchment paper to about a quarter-inch thick. Stack them on top of each other carefully so they don’t stick.

Step 5: Create Your Swirls

Starting from one end, gently roll up the dough tightly into a log shape. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about an hour to firm up—it’s worth the wait!

Step 6: Bake Your Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice logs into quarter-inch rounds and place them on a lined baking sheet. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Transfer to plates and dust with powdered sugar for the perfect finishing touch! These cookies will not just taste wonderful but will also make everyone feel festive as they admire their colorful swirls.

Now go ahead—bake these Christmas Pinwheel Cookies and let them bring joy to your home this holiday season!

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Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by mixing your dough and then chill it for easy rolling. Roll out each color separately before layering them together. Finally, slice the pinwheels and bake until golden brown for perfectly cooked cookies every time.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to swap out vanilla extract for almond extract for a nutty twist. You can also experiment with different food coloring to create festive designs or add sprinkles for extra flair!

Storing & Reheating

Store your Christmas Pinwheel Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you need to reheat them, pop them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes to bring back their delightful texture.

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Baking these cookies always reminds me of the time my niece declared me “the best baker ever” after tasting my Christmas Pinwheel Cookies. Her face lit up like a Christmas tree!

FAQs

What are Christmas Pinwheel Cookies?

Christmas Pinwheel Cookies are delightful holiday treats that feature a unique, colorful swirl design. These cookies combine various flavors and colors of dough, rolled together and sliced to reveal the beautiful pinwheel pattern. Typically made with basic ingredients such as flour, sugar, butter, and eggs, they can be flavored with vanilla or almond extract and dyed with food coloring for that festive touch. When baked, these cookies not only look stunning but also taste deliciously sweet, making them a favorite during the holiday season.

How do you make Christmas Pinwheel Cookies?

To make Christmas Pinwheel Cookies, start by preparing your cookie dough in two batches: one plain and one colored. Roll each dough into a rectangle between parchment paper. Layer the colored dough over the plain dough and roll it tightly to form a log. Chill the log in the refrigerator until firm. Once ready, slice the log into even rounds and bake until golden. The result will be beautifully swirled cookies that are perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings or gifting to loved ones.

Can Christmas Pinwheel Cookies be stored?

Yes, Christmas Pinwheel Cookies can be stored to maintain their freshness. Place cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap individual cookies or stacks in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can typically last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature.

What variations can be made for Christmas Pinwheel Cookies?

There are numerous variations you can try when making Christmas Pinwheel Cookies! You can experiment with different flavorings like peppermint extract or orange zest for a unique twist. Adding chocolate chips or nuts can enhance texture and flavor too. Additionally, use various colors of food coloring to create vibrant designs that match your holiday theme. These variations not only add creativity but also allow you to cater to different taste preferences among family and friends.

Conclusion

In summary, Christmas Pinwheel Cookies are not only visually appealing but also scrumptious treats that bring joy during the holiday season. Their easy preparation makes them perfect for baking with family or friends while creating lasting memories. With countless variations available, these festive cookies can suit any palate or party theme. Enjoy making and sharing Christmas Pinwheel Cookies this year as part of your holiday traditions!