Peppermint Red and White Swirl Tree Cookies
Delightful holiday cookies featuring vibrant red and white swirls, infused with peppermint flavor and a hint of crunch from optional crushed candy canes.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough Ingredients
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour Essential for the base of the cookies.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Provides richness and texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar Sweetens the dough.
- 1 large egg Binds the ingredients together.
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract Gives the cookies their minty flavor.
- a few drops red food coloring For coloring one portion of the dough.
- Crushed candy canes or colorful sprinkles (optional) For decoration.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and peppermint extract until fully combined.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Divide the dough into two equal portions.
- Add a few drops of red food coloring to one portion and mix until a vibrant red hue is achieved.
Assembly
- On a lightly floured surface, roll each dough portion into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Stack the red dough on the white dough, pressing gently to ensure they stick together.
- Roll the combined dough into a tight log.
- Wrap the log in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for 20-30 minutes.
- Slice the chilled dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
- Use a tree-shaped cookie cutter to cut out shapes from the rounds.
- Place the shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, until the edges are slightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- If desired, decorate with crushed candy canes or colorful sprinkles once cooled.
Notes
For best results, ensure butter is softened but not melted. Do not skip the chilling step, as it helps the cookies maintain their shape. Consider adding a pinch of salt for enhanced flavor.