Name: Irresistibly Festive Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 290 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Sugar Cookie Dough (homemade or store-bought); 2-3 drops Red Food Coloring (Gel coloring recommended for deeper color); 1 cup Christmas Nonpareil Sprinkles (or other colorful varieties); 1 teaspoon Lemon Extract (optional for a fresh twist); 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract (optional for holiday flavor); 1 sheet Parchment Paper (to prevent sticking); 1 roll Plastic Wrap (for wrapping dough log)

There's nothing quite like the festive spirit that fills the kitchen during the holiday season, and today, I'm excited to share a delightful treat that embodies all that joy-Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies! Imagine the vibrant swirl of red and white dough, each bite revealing a soft, sweet flavor that will transport you back to cozy childhood memories. These cookies not only look like they belong on a holiday dessert platter, but they also make for a fun baking activity that the whole family can enjoy together.

Whether you're aiming to impress guests at a holiday gathering or simply want to indulge in a little holiday cheer, these customizable pinwheel cookies are the perfect solution. You can add your own creative twist with various flavors and colors, making them as unique as the memories you'll create while baking. So, don your apron, and let's dive into this fun and festive recipe that's sure to bring joy to your home this Christmas!

Why are Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies a must-try?

Delightful Appearance: These cookies are not just tasty; their colorful swirls are a feast for the eyes and make them perfect for any holiday spread.

Customizable Flavors: With the freedom to experiment with various flavors, you can create unique twists-think lemon zest or peppermint for a festive flair.

Easy Preparation: The straightforward method ensures that even novice bakers can whip up a batch with confidence.

Family Fun: Get the whole family involved! Rolling and layering the dough is a joyous activity that makes lasting memories.

Perfect for Gifting: Pack them in decorative boxes for a heartfelt homemade gift that friends and family will love.

Make Ahead: The dough can be prepared in advance and stored, making it a convenient choice for last-minute holiday baking.

Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookie Ingredients

• Gather everything you need for vibrant, festive treats!

For the Dough

Sugar Cookie Dough - The base of these cookies provides the perfect balance of sweetness and softness; homemade or store-bought works wonders.
Red Food Coloring - A few drops will transform half of the dough, adding a merry touch to your Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies. Gel coloring provides deeper saturation for a striking red.
Christmas Nonpareil Sprinkles - These festive sprinkles add delightful crunch and decoration; feel free to swap them with other colorful varieties to match your theme.

For Flavor Options

Lemon Extract - A splash of lemon extract elevates the flavors with a bright zestiness; perfect for a refreshing twist.
Peppermint Extract - Add a subtle hint of mint for a classic holiday flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.

For Rolling

Parchment Paper - Essential for rolling out your dough; it prevents sticking and makes the layering process a breeze.
Plastic Wrap - Use this to wrap your dough log tightly before refrigerating; it keeps the shape intact and prevents air exposure.

With these ingredients in hand, you'll be all set to create your dazzling Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies!

How to Make Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies

Separate Dough: Begin by dividing the sugar cookie dough into two equal portions. Mix red food coloring into one half until the color is vibrant and evenly distributed. This will create that beautiful festive swirl!
Roll Out Dough: On a sheet of parchment paper, roll the red dough into a thin rectangle, about ¼ inch thick. Do the same for the plain dough, ensuring both rectangles are roughly the same size.
Layer Dough: Carefully stack the rolled doughs with parchment paper between them. Gently peel off the top layer of parchment and press the two layers together. This will ensure they stick for the next step.
Form Log: With the layered dough, roll it tightly into a log shape, using the bottom parchment paper to help. If the dough seems too soft to handle, refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm it up.
Refrigerate: Tightly wrap the log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Once chilled, roll the log in sprinkles to coat, then wrap and chill again for another 3 hours or overnight for best results.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Slice the dough log into cookies and arrange on a baking sheet. Bake until they are set and just starting to color, approximately 12-20 minutes, depending on your oven and thickness.
Cooldown: After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This will help maintain their structure while cooling.

Optional: Sprinkle with powdered sugar for a snowy finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative and tailor these festive cookies to your liking!

Citrus Twist: Add lemon or orange zest to the dough for a refreshing, zesty flavor that brightens every bite.
Peppermint Delight: Incorporate peppermint extract instead of vanilla for a cool minty flavor that screams holiday cheer.
Nutty Addition: Stir in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a pleasant crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft dough.
Colorful Swirls: Use different shades of food coloring-try blue and yellow for a vibrant spring cookie or green and red for Christmas!
Chocolate Chip Surprise: Fold in mini chocolate chips for a delightful surprise with each slice, balancing sweetness and richness.
Matcha Marvel: Substitute a portion of the flour with matcha powder for a unique green tea flavor that's both trendy and delicious.
Cookie Sandwiches: Bake two pinwheel cookies with a layer of buttercream or frosting in between for a decadent cookie sandwich experience.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, inviting spice that highlights the festive season.

What to Serve with Christmas Pinwheel Cookies?

Get ready to elevate your holiday gatherings with delightful complements to these vibrant, festive sweets!

Hot Cocoa: The rich, chocolatey flavor warms the soul and perfectly contrasts the sweetness of the cookies. Plus, a sprinkle of marshmallows adds an extra festive touch.
Peppermint Bark: A delicious blend of chocolate and mint that mirrors the seasonal spirit while providing a crunchy texture that balances the softness of the cookies.
Fruit Tart: A refreshing tart with seasonal fruits adds a burst of color and a tangy contrast, making for a lovely visual presentation alongside your cookies.
Eggnog: Creamy and spiced, this classic holiday drink offers richness that complements the sweet flavors without overwhelming your taste buds.
Gingerbread Men: These spicy cookies play well with the softness and sweetness of your pinwheel cookies while creating a joyous themed dessert table.
Sugar-Free Vanilla Ice Cream: For a creamy finish, this subtly sweet ice cream provides a cool contrast to warm cookies, making every bite a delightful surprise.
Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses pairs well with the festive cookies, offering savory moments amidst the sweet experience and creating a balanced flavor profile.
Fruitcake: A traditional holiday treat, its dense texture and fruity flavor create a varied taste journey when enjoyed with pinwheel cookies, inviting nostalgia and warmth to the table.

With these thoughtful pairings, you're sure to impress your guests and create memorable holiday moments!

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 1 week or freeze it for up to 3 months. To get a head start, simply follow the steps to roll out and layer the dough, then wrap it in plastic wrap and chill as instructed. When you're ready to bake, simply slice the dough and bake until golden, ensuring you achieve those soft and festive cookies just in time for your gatherings. This way, they maintain their delightful qualities and are just as delicious as if they were freshly made!

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain their soft texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer, you can keep the cookies in the fridge for up to 10 days. Just make sure they are well-wrapped to avoid drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked dough for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, thaw in the fridge before slicing and baking for fresh treats anytime!

Reheating: If stored, you can gently reheat cookies in a warm oven (around 300°F) for about 5-7 minutes to bring back their softness and aroma.

Expert Tips for Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies

Chill Dough Well: Ensure the dough is thoroughly chilled before rolling. This helps maintain the shape and allows for clean cuts of the cookies.
Gentle with Sprinkles: When rolling the log in sprinkles, apply light pressure to preserve the beautiful pinwheel design. Too much force can flatten your swirls!
Experiment with Flavors: Don't hesitate to add your favorite extracts, like lemon or peppermint, to the dough. It adds an enticing twist to your Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies.
Storage Secrets: If you want to make ahead, freeze the unbaked dough for up to 3 months. Simply thaw before slicing and baking for fresh cookies anytime!
Check Oven Temperature: Each oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies. Adjust baking time as necessary to achieve that perfect 'set' without over-baking.
Use Quality Ingredients: Higher quality butter and pure extracts can elevate the flavor of your cookies, making each bite more delightful!

Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of sugar cookie dough should I use?
You can use either homemade or store-bought sugar cookie dough for these Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies. The key is to ensure that the dough is soft and easy to work with. If using store-bought, check that it has simple ingredients for the best flavor!

How should I store my Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies?
Once baked, store your Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This helps to retain their delightful softness and flavor. If you'd like to refrigerate them, they can last for up to 10 days, but make sure they're well-wrapped to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze the dough for Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked dough for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to bake, simply thaw the dough in the fridge overnight, slice, and proceed with the baking instructions.

What if my dough is too soft to roll?
If you find that your dough is too soft to handle, don't worry! Just pop it into the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm it up. This chilling step is crucial for the perfect pinwheel design and making clean cuts when slicing.

Can I modify the flavors in my Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies?
Yes, the fun part about these cookies is how customizable they are! Feel free to add extracts like lemon or peppermint to the dough for a unique taste, or experiment with different types of food coloring for a personal touch.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
While these cookies are generally safe for many diets, they do contain butter and flour, so make sure to check if anyone has allergies to those ingredients. If you're baking for pets, keep all baking goods away from them, as chocolate and certain sweeteners can be harmful to animals.