There’s something magical about baking cookies, especially when they come with a delightful twist like peppermint swirl cookies. Imagine pulling a tray of warm, soft cookies from the oven, their vibrant red and white spirals reminiscent of candy canes. Linzer Heart Cookies The aroma wafts through your home, inviting everyone to gather around and enjoy the sweet moment together. These peppermint swirl cookies are not just a treat; they’re a celebration of flavors that dance on your taste buds.
Now, picture this: It’s the holiday season, and you’ve got family and friends milling about your kitchen, eagerly waiting for their cookie fix. You whip out these vibrant peppermint swirl cookies, and suddenly everyone’s faces light up with joy. Christmas Peppermint Cookies The laughter and shared memories make every bite even sweeter. Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies Whether it’s Christmas or just a regular day that needs a sprinkle of fun, these cookies promise to bring smiles all around.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These peppermint swirl cookies are incredibly easy to make, even for novice bakers
- Their festive appearance will brighten up any dessert table or gathering
- The combination of buttery sweetness with refreshing peppermint creates an unforgettable flavor experience
- They’re perfect for sharing or simply indulging in on a cozy night in
Baking these delightful treats has left my friends speechless at gatherings, often asking for seconds (and thirds).

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious cookies:
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All-Purpose Flour: A staple in most kitchens; it helps give the cookies structure and chewiness.
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Granulated Sugar: Use this for sweetness; it helps create that lovely crispy edge on the cookies. For more inspiration, check out this sweet potato au gratin recipe.
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Butter: Unsalted butter is best; it adds richness without extra saltiness.
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Peppermint Extract: This is key! It brings that refreshing holiday flavor we all adore.
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Eggs: Two large eggs bind everything together, ensuring the perfect texture.
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Baking Powder: Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy while baking.
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Red Food Coloring: Just a few drops will create those eye-catching swirls.
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Powdered Sugar (for dusting): A light dusting adds an elegant finish and sweetens the experience.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Kitchen Space: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Create the Cookie Dough Base: In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Then stir in peppermint extract for that signature flavor.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk flour and baking powder together. Gradually add this mixture to your wet ingredients until just combined.
Add Color & Create Swirls: Divide the dough into two equal portions. Color one half with red food coloring until you achieve your desired hue.
Shape Your Cookies & Bake Them**: Take small amounts of each colored dough and roll them together into logs. Twist them gently to form swirls before cutting into slices. Place them on prepared baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden around the edges.[/info_box]
You Must Know
- Peppermint swirl cookies are not just a holiday treat; they can add cheer year-round
- The delightful peppermint aroma fills your kitchen, making everyone feel festive
- These cookies are soft, chewy, and visually striking, perfect for sharing or indulging on your own
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by creaming the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then mix in the eggs and vanilla. Gradually incorporate dry ingredients to ensure a smooth dough. Finally, swirl in your peppermint extract with red food coloring before baking.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to enhance your peppermint swirl cookies with chocolate chips or crushed candy canes for added texture and flavor. Red Velvet Blossoms Cookies You can also experiment with different extracts to find your favorite twist.
Storing & Reheating
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you need to reheat them, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds for that freshly baked taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing
- Avoid over-mixing the dough; this keeps your cookies tender
- Always let your cookies cool completely before stacking them to prevent sticking
I remember making these peppermint swirl cookies for my cousin’s holiday party. Everyone raved about them, and I felt like a baking superstar! It was such a joy watching my family enjoy every bite. For more inspiration, check out this Thanksgiving turkey stuffing balls recipe.

FAQ
Can I use other extracts instead of peppermint?
Yes, almond or vanilla extract can create unique flavors in these cookies.
How do I make the swirl effect?
Simply add red food coloring to the dough and gently swirl it before baking.
Can I freeze these cookies for later?
Absolutely! Freeze them in an airtight container for up to three months.
Peppermint Swirl Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Peppermint Swirl Cookies are a delightful holiday treat that combines buttery, chewy goodness with the refreshing taste of peppermint. These visually stunning cookies feature vibrant red and white swirls, reminiscent of candy canes, making them perfect for festive gatherings or cozy nights in. Easy to prepare, they promise to bring joy to your kitchen and smiles to everyone who enjoys them.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp red food coloring
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, cream softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in eggs one at a time, then stir in peppermint extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder; gradually add to wet ingredients until combined.
- Divide dough into two portions; color one half with red food coloring.
- Roll small amounts of each colored dough into logs and twist together to create swirls. Cut into slices and place on baking sheets.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden around the edges.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Holiday
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (20g)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg





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