Easy Peppermint Swirl Cookies

These Peppermint Swirl Cookies are soft, buttery, and beautifully marbled with festive red and white swirls. They have a gentle peppermint flavor that feels refreshing and cozy at the same time. Best of all, they are simple to make and look impressive on any holiday cookie tray.

I originally shared a version of these peppermint swirl cookies a few years ago, and they quickly became a reader favorite during the holidays. I decided it was time to update the recipe with clearer steps and extra tips so you can make them with confidence.

If you love peppermint, this recipe is going to be a new favorite. And if you prefer a milder mint flavor, you can easily adjust the peppermint extract to suit your taste.

Kitchen Equipment Needed :

• Large mixing bowl : For combining the dough ingredients smoothly.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer : Helps cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Rubber spatula : Perfect for folding and shaping the dough.
• Baking sheet : For baking the cookies evenly.
• Parchment paper : Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.

Tips for

– Use gel food coloring for more vibrant color without adding extra liquid to the dough.

– If the dough cracks while rolling, let it rest for a few minutes to soften slightly.

– For cleaner slices, use a sharp knife and wipe it between cuts.

– Do not overbake these cookies, as they should stay pale and soft.

– Chilling the dough is essential because it helps the cookies keep their swirl shape while baking.

– You can double the recipe if you are baking for a crowd or gifting cookies.

What to Eat with Peppermint Swirl Cookies ??

These cookies pair beautifully with warm drinks like hot chocolate, peppermint mocha, or a simple cup of coffee, which balance the sweetness and highlight the chocolate notes. For a family-friendly option, serve them with cold milk or creamy vanilla milk.

Peppermint Swirl Cookies also shine on dessert boards and brunch tables, where they add a pop of color and seasonal charm. Whether enjoyed on their own or alongside your favorite drink, they’re a simple yet elegant treat everyone will love.

Ingredients :

These peppermint swirl cookies use basic baking ingredients that come together beautifully. Here is why each one matters :

• All Purpose Flour : Provides structure to the cookies while keeping them soft and tender when baked.
• Unsalted Butter : Adds rich flavor and creates that classic melt in your mouth cookie texture.
• Granulated Sugar : Sweetens the dough and helps the cookies hold their shape during baking.
• Egg : Binds the ingredients together and gives the cookies a soft interior.
• Vanilla Extract : Balances the peppermint flavor and adds warmth to the overall taste.
• Peppermint Extract : Gives the cookies their refreshing mint flavor.
• Red Food Coloring : Creates the signature swirl and makes these cookies extra festive.

How to Make Peppermint Swirl Cookies :

Step 1

Start by creaming the butter and granulated sugar together in a large bowl until the mixture looks light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2 minutes with a mixer.

Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Scrape down the sides of the bowl and mix again until everything is fully combined.

Step 2

Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
Divide the dough into two equal portions. Leave one portion plain and mix red food coloring into the second portion until evenly colored.

Step 3

Roll each dough portion into a rectangle, then place them on top of each other. Gently roll them together into a log to create the swirl effect.
Wrap the dough log tightly and refrigerate until firm. Once chilled, slice into cookies and place them on a lined baking sheet.

Step 4

Bake until the edges are set and the tops look dry. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a rack.

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