Introduction
The holiday season is a time for joy, love, and of course, delightful treats! If you’re looking for a special cookie that embodies the spirit of Christmas, these Christmas Swirl Butter Cookies are perfect! Beautifully marbled in red and green, these cookies are as festive as they are delicious. With a light buttery flavor and a sprinkle of colored sugar, they create a captivating centerpiece on any holiday dessert table. Plus, they are an absolute hit with kids and adults alike!
Overview of the Recipe
Expect a meltingly tender cookie that is buttery and sweet with a lovely, festive appearance. The preparation is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. While a little chilling time is required, the overall process is fun and engaging, especially if you involve your family in rolling and decorating the cookies.
History and Origin
Swirl cookies have a long-standing tradition in many cultures, often associated with festive gatherings and celebrations. Their colorful appearance makes them particularly beloved during the Christmas season. The technique of rolling different colored doughs together has evolved over the years, adding flair to the classic butter cookie recipe. This cookie is a nod to the past with its classic ingredients and enchanting appearance, making it a timeless treat for the holidays.
Ingredients
To whip up these delightful Christmas Swirl Butter Cookies, you will need:
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– ¾ cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup powdered sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ½ teaspoon almond extract
– ½ teaspoon baking powder
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– 1 cup holiday-themed colored sugar or sprinkles
– Red and green food coloring (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugars:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Wet Ingredients:
Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well combined.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Combine the Mixtures:
Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture and mix until just combined. Divide the dough in half.
6. Color the Dough:
To one half of the dough, add a few drops of red food coloring and mix until you achieve your desired shade. To the other half, add green food coloring and mix until uniform in color.
7. Roll the Dough:
On a lightly floured surface, take a portion of each color dough and flatten them into rectangles, about ¼-inch thick. Layer the red dough on top of the green dough and roll them together tightly like a jelly roll.
8. Chill the Dough:
Wrap the rolled dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes until firm.
9. Slice the Cookies:
Once chilled, remove the dough from the refrigerator and slice it into ¼-inch thick rounds.
10. Decorate:
Place the cookie slices onto the prepared baking sheets and sprinkle the tops with colored sugar or sprinkles for that festive touch.
11. Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
12. Cool:
Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Prep Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 1 hr 30 mins | Servings: 24 cookies
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
These colorful cookies pair excellently with a cup of hot cocoa or a classic eggnog. They are ideal for holiday gatherings, cookie swaps, and as gifts. Consider serving them on a decorative platter to enhance their festive appeal.
Variations of the Recipe
– Dairy-Free: Substitute the unsalted butter with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut oil or vegan butter.
– Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.
– Different Colors: Get creative and use different colors for a personalized touch, suitable for any occasion beyond Christmas!
Health Benefits and Notes
While these cookies are a delightful treat, you can make them healthier by reducing sugar slightly or using healthier alternatives like coconut sugar. The almond extract adds a unique flavor that also provides some health benefits such as vitamin E and magnesium.
FAQs
– Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dough a day ahead and keep it wrapped tightly in the fridge.
– What if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky, sprinkle some extra flour while rolling it out.
– How long do these cookies last?
Properly stored in an airtight container, these cookies can last up to a week.
Conclusion
These Christmas Swirl Butter Cookies not only bring a festive twist but also a sense of joy and togetherness while baking. They’re visually stunning, incredibly delicious, and are sure to become a cherished tradition in your holiday celebrations. So roll up your sleeves, get your apron on, and let’s get baking! Enjoy sharing and experimenting with this delightful recipe! Don’t forget to leave your feedback and variations!