Homemade Peppermint Swirl Cookies for the Holidays

Peppermint Swirl Cookies are a fun and colorful treat that many people enjoy during the winter months. These cookies have a soft texture and a light peppermint flavor that feels cool and sweet at the same time. The swirl pattern makes them look special even though the steps are simple.

I like making these cookies when the weather gets cold and the kitchen feels cozy. They are great for sharing with family, bringing to school events, or setting out on a holiday table. The peppermint flavor is gentle and not too strong, so kids and adults both enjoy them.

These cookies bake up soft with a smooth surface. When you break one open, the inside stays tender and fresh. If you enjoy peppermint treats, you may also like my Peppermint Meltaways, which are soft and delicate, or my Cake Mix Cookies, which are quick and easy when time is short.

What Makes Peppermint Swirl Cookies Special

These cookies stand out because of their look and flavor. The red and white swirl gives them a cheerful style that feels perfect for winter baking. Even though they look fancy, they are easy to make at home.

The peppermint flavor adds a fresh taste without being sharp. It blends well with the buttery dough and gives the cookies a clean finish. The texture stays soft, not crunchy or dry.

Another reason people love these cookies is that the dough is easy to handle. It rolls smoothly and keeps its shape when baked. This makes the swirl pattern clear and bright after baking.

Ingredients You Will Need

• Two and one-quarter cups all-purpose flour
• One half teaspoon baking powder
• One quarter teaspoon salt
• One cup unsalted butter softened
• One cup granulated sugar
• One large egg at room temperature
• One teaspoon vanilla extract
• One half teaspoon peppermint extract
• Red food coloring

These ingredients work together to make soft cookies with a clean peppermint taste and a clear swirl design.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the dry ingredients

In a medium bowl, add the flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir gently with a spoon until everything is mixed well. Set the bowl aside.

Step 2: Cream the butter and sugar

Place the softened butter and sugar into a large mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer or a sturdy spoon to mix until the mixture looks light and fluffy. This step takes about two to three minutes and helps the cookies stay soft.

Step 3: Add the egg and flavoring

Add the egg to the butter mixture. Mix until fully blended. Pour in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract. Stir slowly so the flavor spreads evenly through the dough.

Step 4: Combine wet and dry ingredients

Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture a little at a time. Mix gently until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix. Stop once the dough comes together and no dry flour is left.

Step 5: Divide and color the dough

Divide the dough into two equal parts. Leave one half plain. Add a few drops of red food coloring to the second half. Knead gently until the color spreads evenly. Add more color if needed.

Step 6: Chill the dough

Wrap each dough piece in plastic wrap. Place both in the refrigerator for at least one hour. Chilling makes the dough easier to shape and helps the cookies keep their swirl.

Step 7: Roll the dough

Once chilled, roll each dough piece into a long rope of the same length. Place the red rope next to the plain rope. Gently press them together.

Step 8: Create the swirl

Carefully twist the two ropes together to form a spiral. Roll lightly to smooth the surface and keep the swirl tight.

Step 9: Slice the cookies

Use a sharp knife to cut the dough into half inch slices. Place the slices on a parchment lined baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.

Step 10: Bake the cookies

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes. The edges should look set, but the tops should stay light.

Step 11: Cool before serving

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them rest on the baking sheet for five minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool fully.

Why Chilling the Dough Matters

Chilling helps the dough stay firm. This keeps the swirl shape clear while baking. Warm dough can spread too much and blur the design.

Cold dough also makes slicing cleaner and easier. This step helps every cookie look neat.

Helpful Tips for Best Results

• Use softened butter, not melted.
• Do not add too much peppermint extract.
• Chill the dough long enough before shaping.
• Slice with a sharp knife for clean edges.
• Do not overbake or cookies will dry out.

These tips help keep the cookies soft and pretty.

Easy Variations to Try

• Add crushed candy canes for extra crunch.
• Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate.
• Use green food coloring for a holiday look.
• Sprinkle sugar on top before baking.

Each option adds a small twist without changing the base recipe.

How to Store Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. Keep them in a cool place away from heat.

For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes. The dough can be chilled for up to two days before baking.

Can I skip the food coloring?

Yes. The cookies will still taste the same without color.

Why did my cookies spread too much?

The dough may not have been chilled long enough.

Are these cookies good for kids?

Yes. The flavor is mild and the texture is soft.

A Cookie That Feels Festive and Fun

Peppermint Swirl Cookies bring color, flavor, and comfort to any cookie tray. They look special, taste gentle, and feel familiar. The soft texture and light peppermint flavor make them easy to enjoy.

These cookies are simple to make and fun to share. They work well for holidays, school events, or a quiet afternoon at home.