Pinwheel Cookies
These vibrant pinwheel cookies are not only a delightful treat for the taste buds but also a colorful addition to holiday gatherings, perfect for family baking projects.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough Base
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Ensure butter is at room temperature.
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Use high-quality extract for best flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract Can be substituted for lemon or orange zest.
- Food coloring (red and green) For creating colorful dough.
- Sprinkles (optional) For decoration.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt, mixing well before setting it aside.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, followed by the vanilla and almond extract, ensuring everything is well combined.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Divide the dough into three equal portions: leave one plain, color the second part red, and the remaining part green with food coloring.
Rolling and Baking
- Roll out each portion between sheets of parchment paper into rectangles of even thickness.
- Layer the red and green dough on top of the plain dough, then roll it up tightly into a log.
- Chill the log in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm it up.
- Slice the chilled log into 1/4 inch thick rounds and place them on a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment.
- If desired, sprinkle the tops with colorful sprinkles for a festive touch.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let cool before serving.
Notes
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Can freeze for up to three months.