Name: Swirled Christmas Cookies: A Festive Delight for Everyone
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 74 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Adds richness and moisture; you can use salted butter by reducing added salt to ½ tsp.); 1.25 cups Granulated Sugar (Provides sweetness and structure.); 1 large Egg (Room temperature; binds ingredients.); 2 tsp Almond Extract (Enhances flavor; vanilla extract can be used instead.); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Brings depth and warmth.); 3 cups All-Purpose Flour (Main structure of the cookies.); 1 tsp Cornstarch (Softens the texture.); 1 tsp Baking Powder (Gives the cookies a slight rise.); 1 tsp Fine Salt (Balances sweetness.); 1 cup Christmas Sprinkles (Add vibrant color and crunch.); 1 set Gel Food Coloring (Red and green; for tinting the dough.)

As the holiday season approaches, the cheerful aroma of baking cookies fills the air, evoking memories of festive gatherings and cherished traditions. Enter the world of Swirled Christmas Cookies, where vibrant colors and festive sprinkles collide to delight your senses and elevate your holiday spirit. Not only do these eye-catching cookies make for an impressive treat on any cookie platter, but they're also a joyous cooking project you can dive into with family and friends. With simple ingredients and quick prep, you’ll have a batch of tender cookies that perfectly blend warmth and crunch in every bite. Ready to bring a swirl of joy to your holiday festivities? Let’s get started!

Why Are They a Holiday Favorite?

Colorful, the vibrant swirls of red and green make these cookies a festive spectacle that will brighten any celebration. Easy to make, beginner bakers will love how simple and foolproof this recipe is. Irresistibly delicious, the rich buttery flavor combined with a satisfying crunch from the sprinkles creates a delightful treat for everyone. Versatile, feel free to swap almond for vanilla extract or add crushed peppermint for a seasonal twist. Whether you’re sharing them on holiday cookie trays or gifting them in beautiful boxes, these Swirled Christmas Cookies are guaranteed to spread happiness this season!

Swirled Christmas Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• Unsalted Butter (1 cup / 226g) – Adds richness and moisture; you can use salted butter by reducing the added salt to ½ tsp.
• Granulated Sugar (1 ¼ cups / 250g) – Provides sweetness and structure for these mouthwatering swirled cookies.
• Egg (1 large, room temperature / 56g) – Binds the ingredients and helps create that tender texture we all adore.
• Almond Extract (2 teaspoon / 10g) – Enhances flavor with a delightful nutty aroma; feel free to use vanilla extract instead.
• Vanilla Extract or Vanilla Bean Paste (1 teaspoon / 5g) – Brings depth and warmth to each bite.
• All-Purpose Flour (3 cups / 390g) – Acts as the main structure of the cookies; measuring accurately is key!
• Cornstarch (1 teaspoon / 3g) – Softens the texture, making your cookies extra tender.
• Baking Powder (1 teaspoon / 4g) – Gives the cookies a slight rise and airy texture.
• Fine Salt (1 teaspoon / 6g) – Balances sweetness and boosts the overall flavor.

For the Festive Touch
• Christmas Sprinkles (1 cup) – Add vibrant color and crunchy fun to your cookies; nonpareils are highly recommended for the best look.
• Gel Food Coloring (red and green) – Used for tinting the dough; gel is preferred to keep your dough consistency just right for those beautiful swirls.

These swirled Christmas cookies are not just a treat, but a joyful way to spread holiday cheer!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Swirled Christmas Cookies

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer on medium-high to cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 ¼ cups of granulated sugar for about 2 minutes. The mixture should become light and fluffy, doubling in volume and turning pale in color, creating the perfect base for your Swirled Christmas Cookies.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
Add 1 large room temperature egg, 2 teaspoons of almond extract, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Mix on low until everything is well combined, ensuring that the wet ingredients blend seamlessly with the butter and sugar, creating a rich, aromatic base for the cookies.

Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of fine salt to the mixture at low speed. Mix until just combined, taking care not to overwork the dough; it should appear thick and slightly sticky, ready to be shaped into colorful swirls.

Step 4: Divide and Color the Dough
Divide the dough into three equal portions. Leave one portion uncolored, and to the second, add gel food coloring to achieve a vibrant green hue. Color the last portion with gel food coloring, creating a bright red. Wrap each piece separately in plastic wrap, ensuring no color bleeds, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare to Roll
Once chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Remove the colored dough from the refrigerator and prepare to roll it out, keeping your workspace clean and organized, which helps with the assembly of your Swirled Christmas Cookies.

Step 6: Roll and Layer the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll each dough portion into a rectangle about 7x12 inches. Start with the green dough on the bottom, layer the uncolored dough in the middle, and finish with the red dough on top, aligning the edges. Ensure you work swiftly to maintain the dough’s chill for the best results.

Step 7: Shape into a Log
Gently roll the stacked dough tightly into a log, starting from one long side and sealing the edges as you go to maintain the beautiful colors and prevent any gaps. Once formed, the log should resemble a candy cane, bright and festive, ready to be coated in sprinkles.

Step 8: Coat in Sprinkles
Carefully roll the log in 1 cup of Christmas sprinkles, ensuring it's fully coated for that delightful crunch and festive flair, giving your Swirled Christmas Cookies their eye-catching appearance. This step adds extra excitement to each bite, showcasing the vibrant colors.

Step 9: Slice the Cookies
Once coated, use a sharp knife to slice the log into ⅓ inch thick rounds. Place the cookies cut side down on the prepared baking sheets, leaving enough space between them to allow for slight spreading while baking. This will help them retain their distinct swirled shape.

Step 10: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, rotating the sheets halfway through for even baking. Look for a light golden edge while ensuring the centers remain soft; this will result in beautifully tender Swirled Christmas Cookies that are perfect for the holiday season.

Make Ahead Options

These Swirled Christmas Cookies are perfect for busy bakers looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the mixing instructions and then wrapping the colored dough securely in plastic wrap before refrigerating. Additionally, you can roll the dough into a log shape, coat it in sprinkles, and freeze it for up to 3 months. When you're ready to bake, simply slice the frozen log into cookies and bake them straight from the freezer for about 2-3 extra minutes. This ensures they'll be just as delicious and festive when served, making your holiday cookie planning a breeze!

Expert Tips for Swirled Christmas Cookies

Cream Well: Ensure you cream the butter and sugar thoroughly for at least 2 minutes; this helps create a light and airy texture in your Swirled Christmas Cookies.
Use Gel Coloring: Always opt for gel food coloring instead of liquid to maintain dough consistency while achieving bold, vibrant colors for your swirls.
Chill Dough: Firmly chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes is key to minimizing spreading while baking. It ensures those beautiful swirls hold their shape.
Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. Underbake them slightly for chewier centers; they will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheets.
Slice Carefully: Use a sharp, non-serrated knife for slicing the log into cookies, which helps achieve clean and even cuts for a stunning presentation.

What to Serve with Swirled Christmas Cookies

As you savor the festive spirit, these delightful treats can be complemented by a variety of cheerful pairings to elevate your holiday celebrations.

Warm Spiced Cider: This fragrant drink brings warmth and nostalgia, creating a cozy balance with the sweetness of the cookies. Perfect for a chilly evening gathering!
Rich Hot Chocolate: A classic pairing, the creamy texture of hot chocolate enhances the delightful flavors of the cookies, making each bite a comforting experience.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold creaminess of vanilla ice cream perfectly contrasts with the warm, buttery cookies, crafting a soothing and indulgent dessert treat.
Peppermint Mocha: Infused with holiday flavors, this caffeinated delight pairs beautifully, bringing out the cookie's festive colors and enhancing the overall holiday experience.
Nutty Biscotti: The crunchy texture of biscotti provides a delightful contrast to the soft swirls, making for a unique tasting journey with every bite at your holiday gatherings.
Fresh Fruit Platter: A refreshing assortment of fruits adds a lightness to the dessert table, balancing the sweetness of the cookies while offering a splash of color.
Festive Eggnog: Creamy and spiced, eggnog is a seasonal favorite that echoes the flavors of the cookies, making it a joyful addition to any holiday treat tray.
Gingerbread Tea: This subtly spiced tea brings a cozy warmth to the gathering, complementing the cookies while enhancing their holiday appeal with a tasty twist.
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: The sweetness of ripe strawberries dipped in rich chocolate creates a luxurious bite-sized treat to accompany the vibrant swirls of your cookies.

Swirled Christmas Cookies Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the classic recipe to really make it your own!

Almond Alternative: Substitute almond extract with vanilla for a classic flavor profile. The result is a warm, nostalgic taste that everyone loves.
Peppermint Twist: Instead of sprinkles, use crushed peppermint candies for a refreshing seasonal flavor. These little morsels add both crunch and a zingy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the buttery cookie.
Cocoa Swirls: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to one portion of the dough for a rich chocolatey flavor contrast. Now, you'll have beautiful swirls of chocolate and vanilla, perfect for those who love a little cocoa magic.
Citrus Zing: Incorporate a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest into the dough for a bright, fresh twist. The citrus aroma will fill your kitchen and make these cookies feel even more festive.
Nutty Goodness: Fold in ½ cup of finely chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for added texture. The nuttiness provides a lovely balance to the sweetness, making each bite a delightful surprise.
Dried Fruit Addition: Mix in ½ cup of dried cranberries or chopped dried cherries for a chewy treat with a pop of color. These fruity bursts complement the holiday spirit perfectly!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the holiday warmth in your cookies. Just a touch of spice can elevate these cookies to festive bliss.

For more delightful cookie ideas, don’t forget to check out my Oatmeal Cookies Chewy or the incredibly inviting Cinnamon Crunch Swirled Banana Bread!

Storage Tips for Swirled Christmas Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and prevent them from drying out.

Fridge: If you prefer extra softness, keep them in the fridge with parchment paper between layers, which can help retain their moisture for up to a week.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before placing them in a sealed bag or container. They can be stored frozen for up to 1 month.

Chilled Dough: The unbaked dough can be refrigerated for 2 days or wrapped tightly and frozen for up to a month, allowing for easy baking anytime you crave Swirled Christmas Cookies!

Swirled Christmas Cookies Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best Swirled Christmas Cookies, make sure your butter is fresh and at room temperature for easy creaming. This ensures a light and fluffy dough, which is key to the perfect texture. Eggs should be large and at room temperature, as this helps them incorporate better into the mixture, providing that tender crumb we all love. When selecting extracts, opt for pure almond extract for the best flavor, but if necessary, vanilla extract works beautifully as a substitute.

How should I store leftover cookies and how long will they last?
You can store your Swirled Christmas Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them extra soft, consider placing a slice of bread in the container; it helps retain moisture! If you prefer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, but be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Can I freeze Swirled Christmas Cookies? If yes, how?
Yes, absolutely! For freezing, start by placing the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable plastic freezer bag or airtight container. They can be stored frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours before serving.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If you find your dough is a bit too sticky after mixing, don’t fret! You can sprinkle in a tablespoon or two of additional flour to balance it out. Ensure you're measuring your flour accurately, as too much moisture can lead to stickiness. If the dough feels too soft, you might also want to chill it for about 15-30 minutes, which will make it much easier to handle.

Are these cookies suitable for people with nut allergies?
Great question! The original recipe uses almond extract, which should be avoided if anyone has nut allergies. You can easily substitute the almond extract with an equal amount of vanilla extract to ensure all your friends and family can indulge in the festive joy of these Swirled Christmas Cookies without worry!