Christmas Pinwheel Cookies are festive, buttery sugar cookies colored in bright red and white swirls that make every bite look cheerful and fun for the holidays. They remind me of those childhood Christmas moments when colorful treats felt magical and baking turned the kitchen into a happy, cozy space. The soft dough, the pretty spiral design, and the playful colors make these cookies perfect for parties, cookie swaps, and gifting. Even though they look fancy, the dough is simple to make and easy to shape, making Christmas Pinwheel Cookies a beautiful and delicious holiday favorite.
INGREDIENTS
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg (room temperature)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp almond extract (optional)
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
Red gel food coloring
Green gel food coloring
Sprinkles for edges (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This helps create a smooth, tender cookie texture.
Step 2: Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract if using. Mix until creamy and fully combined.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Step 4: Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet mixture and mix until a soft dough forms. Divide the dough into two equal portions.
Step 5: Divide the dough into three portions if you want a red, green, and white swirl, or two portions if you prefer just red and white. Leave one portion plain, add red gel food coloring to one portion, and green gel food coloring to the third portion if using three colors. Knead gently until each portion is evenly colored.
Step 6: If using three colors, roll each portion into equal-sized rectangles and layer them (green, white, red or any order you like) before rolling into the log for a triple-color pinwheel.
Step 7: Carefully place the red dough rectangle on top of the plain dough rectangle, peeling away the parchment. Gently press them together.
Step 8: Starting from one long edge, roll the layered dough tightly into a log to create the pinwheel swirl. Wrap in plastic wrap.
Step 9: Chill the dough log in the refrigerator for 2–3 hours or until firm enough to slice.
Step 10: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the chilled dough into 1/4-inch rounds and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roll edges in sprinkles if desired.
Step 11: Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges are just set. The cookies should stay soft and colorful.
Step 12: Cool on a wire rack before serving or packaging.
Variations
• Use green food coloring instead of red for a different Christmas look
• Add peppermint extract for a candy cane flavor
• Make red, white, and green triple-layer pinwheels
• Roll edges in sanding sugar or crushed peppermint
• Add mini chocolate chips to the plain dough for a fun twist
COOKING NOTES
• Use gel food coloring for bright color without changing dough texture
• Chill the dough log fully to keep the swirl shape
• Slice gently with a sharp knife to avoid flattening the cookies
• Don’t overbake; edges should stay pale
• Roll dough evenly so the swirl looks clean
Serving suggestions
• Serve on Christmas cookie platters
• Package in clear bags or tins for gifting
• Pair with hot cocoa, milk, or peppermint tea
• Use as colorful treats for kids’ holiday parties
• Add to cookie swap boxes for a festive touch
Tips
• Grate dough lightly with flour if it sticks when rolling
• Keep dough cold while slicing for perfect circles
• Use parchment to help roll the dough tightly
• Add sprinkles before baking so they stick well
• Store between layers of parchment to protect the swirl design
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling)
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 37 minutes (plus chilling)
Nutritional Information
(Per cookie, based on 24 cookies)
Calories: ~120
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Sugar: 9g
Protein: 1g
FAQs
Why did my cookies lose their swirl shape?
- The dough may not have been chilled long enough; chilling keeps the shape sharp during slicing and baking.
Can I freeze the dough?
- Yes, freeze the wrapped dough log for up to 2 months, then thaw slightly before slicing.
Why did my colors bleed?
- Too much liquid food coloring can soften the dough, so use gel coloring for brighter results.
Can I make them ahead?
- Yes, bake 1–2 days before serving and store in an airtight container.
Can I make smaller or larger cookies?
- Yes, slice thinner for smaller cookies or thicker for larger cookies and adjust baking time slightly.
Christmas Pinwheel Cookies are colorful, buttery, and full of holiday fun, making them a festive treat that’s as pretty as it is delicious. They’re easy to prepare, perfect for sharing, and guaranteed to bring joy to any Christmas celebration, from parties to gifting to cozy family moments at home.
