Name: Irresistibly Festive Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 225 min
Ingredients: 1 batch Best Ever Sugar Cookie Dough (Feel free to substitute with your favorite recipe if desired!); 1 tbsp Red Food Coloring (Gel coloring is recommended for vibrant hues.); 1 cup Christmas Nonpareil Sprinkles (You can use other fun sprinkles for various celebrations!)

As the holiday season approaches, my heart fills with joy, and I find myself enchanted by the vibrant colors and sweet aromas wafting through my kitchen. This year, I'm embracing the festive spirit with these delightful Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies. With their charming spiral design and tender texture, they are like little edible presents waiting to be unwrapped!

When I first crafted this recipe, I was captivated by how easily it allows for personalization-whether you prefer a hint of peppermint, a splash of lemon, or a decadent touch of white chocolate, the possibilities are endless! These cookies not only bring festive cheer to any gathering but also become a canvas for your creativity, making them a favorite at holiday parties and cozy family get-togethers.

Join me in creating these simple yet show-stopping treats that are sure to bring smiles and warmth to your home this season. Get ready to roll, chill, and bake your way to the sweetest holiday memories!

Why are Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies a Must-Bake?

Colorful Creation: These cookies are not just sweet; they're a feast for the eyes with their festive swirls.
Customizable Flavors: Explore endless variations with flavors like peppermint or lemon to match your holiday mood.
Simple Steps: Even novice bakers can succeed with this straightforward recipe-perfect for a fun family activity!
Crowd-Pleasing Choice: Share these cookies at gatherings and watch them disappear in a flash, bringing joy to everyone.
Memorable Traditions: Baking these treats creates cherished moments-just like the ones we love to celebrate!
For more delightful options, check out our holiday baking section.

Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

Best Ever Sugar Cookie Dough - This dough provides the perfect base for your cookies; feel free to substitute with your favorite recipe if desired!
Red Food Coloring - Adds a pop of festive color to half the dough; gel coloring is recommended for vibrant hues.

For Decoration

Christmas Nonpareil Sprinkles - These delightful sprinkles top off your cookies, but you can use other fun sprinkles for various celebrations!

Embrace the joy of baking these Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies and let your creativity shine!

How to Make Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies

Prepare the Dough: Start by dividing the Best Ever Sugar Cookie Dough into two equal portions. Gently mix red food coloring into one half until you reach your desired shade-bright red will bring the holiday spirit to life!
Roll Out Dough: On a piece of parchment paper, roll each dough half out to about ¼ inch thickness. Ensure they are even; this helps create the beautiful swirls later.
Combine Layers: Next, stack the plain and colored dough with parchment between them. Carefully roll the dough layers together, creating a log shape that binds the colors harmoniously.
Chill in the Fridge: Wrap your log in plastic wrap and pop it into the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial for firming up the dough, making it easier to slice later.
Decorate with Sprinkles: After chilling, roll the log in Christmas Nonpareil Sprinkles, ensuring even coverage. Rewrap the log and chill again for a minimum of 3 hours or overnight for best results.
Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Slice the chilled log into cookies and arrange them on a cookie sheet. Bake until set, which should take about 12-15 minutes, filling your kitchen with holiday aromas!

Optional: Drizzle some melted white chocolate on top for an extra festive touch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies

Chill for Success: Ensure your dough is well-chilled before rolling to prevent it from becoming too sticky. If it feels soft, pop it back in the fridge briefly.
Color Intensity: Use gel food coloring for vibrant shades; it blends better and requires less product than liquid dyes.
Gentle Handling: Be delicate when rolling the log in sprinkles to keep your beautiful cookie shape intact.
Slicing Strategy: Utilize a sharp knife to slice through the log cleanly without squishing the dough-precision is key for lovely pinwheels!
Cool and Enjoy: Allow your cookies to cool completely after baking to develop the best texture and flavor-resist the temptation to dive in too soon!

Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies by trying out these delightful twists that will surprise your taste buds!

Flavorful Extracts: Add a teaspoon of vanilla, lemon, or peppermint extract to the dough for a flavorful kick. Infuse each bite with the essence of the season.
Different Colors: Instead of red, use green or blue food coloring for a unique holiday palette. Think outside the box to create an eye-catching display!
Chocolate Chip Delight: Fold in mini chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet surprise inside. The chocolate melts just right, offering blissful bites of gooey goodness.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture. This brings a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cookie.
White Chocolate Drizzle: After baking, drizzle melted white chocolate over the cookies for a beautiful finishing touch. It adds richness and a festive flair.
Spicy Cinnamon Twist: Mix in a pinch of ground cinnamon for a warm spice note. This subtle addition can elevate the cookie's complexity while maintaining that sweet taste.
Dried Fruit Fun: Consider folding in chopped dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity burst. This extra chewiness adds character and a smart balance to the sweetness.
Zesty Citrus Swirls: Replace the red dye with orange food coloring and add a few teaspoons of orange zest for a bright, citrusy flavor. These will surely stand out at any gathering!

What to Serve with Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies?

These vibrant cookies are perfect for spreading festive cheer, and they pair beautifully with a variety of delightful accompaniments.

Peppermint Hot Cocoa: This rich and creamy drink enhances the cookies' festive theme, providing a warm contrast on chilly nights.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla perfectly complements the sweet, tender texture of the cookies, creating a delightful balance.
Fruit Platter: A mix of fresh berries and citrus fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet cookies, bringing brightness to your dessert spread.
Nutty Biscotti: Enjoy with crispy almond or hazelnut biscotti for added crunch and a hint of sophisticated flavor that rounds out the sweetness.
Spiced Apple Cider: This warm beverage, with its comforting spices, harmonizes beautifully with the sugary delights, enhancing the cozy atmosphere of your holiday gathering.
Cream Cheese Frosting: A dollop of this tangy frosting makes for a delicious dip, taking the cookie experience to another level of indulgence.
Toasted Nuts: Crunchy roasted pecans or walnuts offer a delightful texture contrast and a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweet cookies.
Milk or Dairy Alternatives: Whether whole milk or a creamy almond beverage, this classic pairing never fails, making every bite even more enjoyable.

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies are perfect for those busy holiday weeks! You can prepare the cookie dough up to three days in advance by rolling it into a log and wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. If you want to go even further, feel free to freeze the unbaked log for up to three months; just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before slicing and baking. To maintain the cookie's delightful texture and vibrant colors, it's best to roll the log in sprinkles right before baking. When you're ready to serve, simply slice the chilled dough, bake for 12-15 minutes, and enjoy these festive treats that are just as delicious as if they were freshly made!

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week for the freshest taste.

Refrigerator: If you have leftover cookies, place them in a sealed container and store them in the fridge to maintain their softness; consume within 5 days.

Freezer: Prepare cookie dough and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap; freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before slicing and baking.

Reheating: For a warm treat, reheat baked cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy them cold for a delightful texture.

Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of food coloring should I use for my Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies?
I recommend using gel food coloring, as it provides vibrant hues with less product. Liquid food coloring can sometimes alter the dough's consistency, so gel is the way to go for those festive colors!

How should I store my Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies?
Keep your baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will stay fresh for up to 1 week. If you have leftover cookies, transferring them to the refrigerator in a sealed container will help maintain their softness; just enjoy them within 5 days!

Can I freeze the dough for Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze it for up to 3 months. When you're ready to bake, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before slicing and baking to maintain the best texture.

What if my cookie dough is too soft to roll?
If your dough feels soft or sticky while rolling, it's a good idea to chill it for another 15-30 minutes. This will firm it up and make it easier to work with. Remember, a well-chilled dough is key to achieving those lovely pinwheel shapes!

Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
These Christmas Pinwheel Sugar Cookies are generally suitable for many diets, but always check for allergies, particularly with the sprinkles and any extracts you might add. If you have gluten sensitivities, consider using gluten-free flour in your sugar cookie dough for a delightful alternative.

Can my pets have any of these ingredients?
While decorative sprinkles may seem harmless, many contain sugars and artificial ingredients that might not be suitable for your furry friends. It's best to keep these cookies as a human-only treat!