Get ready to add some color (and cheer!) to your dessert table with these Festive Pinwheel Sugar Cookies. Buttery, soft, and full of sweet holiday spirit, these red and green swirled cookies are as fun to make as they are to eat. Perfect for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or gifting — they’re a true holiday baking win!
Why You’ll Love These Festive Pinwheel Sugar Cookies
- Fun, colorful, and festive — perfect for holidays or parties
- Easy slice-and-bake dough for convenience
- Customizable with flavors or colors for any season
- Great for kids to help make
- Stores well and perfect for gifting
Festive Pinwheel Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1½ tsp vanilla extract
- Red and green food coloring gel preferred
- Optional: 1 tsp strawberry or peppermint extract for extra flavor
Instructions
- Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream butter and sugar: Beat until light and fluffy.
- Add egg and vanilla: Mix until well combined.
- Combine: Gradually add dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.
- Divide and color: Split dough into two or three portions; tint each with red, green, or leave one plain.
- Roll and layer: Roll out each color between parchment paper. Stack layers, then roll gently into a log.
- Chill: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap; refrigerate at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Slice and bake: Cut into ¼-inch slices and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake: At 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, until edges are just golden.
- Cool & serve: Let cool on a rack before serving or storing.
Notes
Tips & Variations
Flavor twist: Add lemon zest, almond, or peppermint extract for festive flair. Color ideas: Try pastel tones for spring, or orange and black for Halloween. Texture boost: Roll the dough log in sanding sugar for a sparkly finish. Make ahead: Prepare dough up to 3 days ahead or freeze for up to 2 months.Storage
Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Freezer: Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months. Refrigerate dough: Up to 3 days before baking.Suitable For
✅ Vegetarian✅ Nut-Free (if no nut extract used)
🚫 Not suitable for:
Vegan diet, gluten-free diet dairy-free dietFAQ
1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! Chill or freeze the dough logs until you’re ready to slice and bake.
2. How do I keep the colors bright after baking?
Use gel food coloring — it keeps colors vibrant without changing texture.
3. Can I use store-bought sugar cookie dough?
Absolutely. Just divide, color, and roll into pinwheels for a quick, festive shortcut.
4. How can I prevent cracking?
Keep the dough chilled but pliable; roll gently using parchment paper.
These Festive Pinwheel Sugar Cookies are a joyful addition to any holiday spread — buttery and colorful. Whether you’re baking with kids or prepping for a cookie exchange, these swirled beauties never fail to impress.
If you love festive, buttery treats that look as good as they taste, you’ll also adore my Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies – Holiday Treat — a melt-in-your-mouth cookie bursting with bright citrus and cranberry flavor, perfect for gifting or enjoying with a cozy cup of tea!