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Swirled Christmas Cookies

Swirled Christmas Cookies: A Festive Delight Everyone Loves

Swirled Christmas Cookies are a colorful treat that combines rich almond and vanilla flavors, perfect for holiday gatherings and gift boxes.
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Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 14 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 29 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Batter
  • 1 cup Unsalted Butter Provides richness and moisture; can substitute with room temperature margarine for a dairy-free option.
  • 1.25 cups Granulated Sugar Adds sweetness and contributes to texture; no direct substitution suggested.
  • 1 large Egg Binds the ingredients and adds moisture; substitute with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce for a vegan option.
  • 2 teaspoons Almond Extract Enhances flavor profile; use vanilla extract as a replacement if needed.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract or Vanilla Bean Paste Adds a classic flavor that complements the festive cookie.
  • 3 cups All-Purpose Flour Forms the structure of the cookies; can be replaced with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
  • 1 teaspoon Cornstarch Helps to create a tender cookie texture, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Powder Provides leavening for fluffiness, making the cookies light.
  • 1 teaspoon Fine Salt Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor in your swirled Christmas cookies.
For the Decoration
  • 1 cup Christmas Sprinkles Adds festive decoration and texture; choose nonpareils or jimmies for best effect.
  • Gel Food Coloring Red & Green for visual appeal; gel colors maintain the dough's texture without altering consistency.

Equipment

  • electric mixer
  • mixing bowls
  • parchment paper
  • Baking sheets
  • plastic wrap
  • Rolling Pin
  • sharp knife

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 1/4 cups of granulated sugar on medium speed for about 2 minutes until fluffy.
  2. Add 1 large egg, 2 teaspoons of almond extract, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix on low speed until combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of fine salt. Gradually mix into wet ingredients.
  4. Divide the cookie dough into three equal portions; color one portion red and another green, leaving one uncolored. Knead colors into the dough and chill for at least 30 minutes.
  5. After chilling, roll the colored dough into rectangles measuring approximately 7x12 inches. Layer them in the order of green, white, and red, then roll tightly into a log.
  6. Roll the formed cookie log in 1 cup of Christmas sprinkles until coated evenly.
  7. Chill the cookie log again for about 15 minutes, then slice into cookies of about 1/3 inch thick.
  8. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookie slices on baking sheets and bake for 12-14 minutes, rotating halfway through.
  9. Cool on the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

These cookies are visually appealing and delicious, perfect for holiday gifting or gatherings. Follow the steps for best results.