Christmas Swirl Butter Cookies Recipe

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Here’s a full, detailed recipe write-up for your Christmas Swirl Butter Cookies, complete with introduction, history, preparation methods, and a cozy conclusion for cookie lovers:

🎄 Christmas Swirl Butter Cookies Recipe 🎄

Introduction

Christmas is the season of warmth, family gatherings, and sweet aromas drifting from the kitchen. Among the many festive delights, Christmas Swirl Butter Cookies stand out as a cheerful treat that combines buttery richness with a playful swirl of holiday colors. Their crisp edges and melt-in-your-mouth centers make them the perfect companion to hot cocoa, coffee, or a glass of milk left out for Santa.

These cookies aren’t just desserts—they’re edible decorations that brighten up cookie trays, gift boxes, and dessert tables. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday party, a cookie exchange, or simply to fill your home with joy, these cookies will always deliver festive magic.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • Red and green food coloring (gel works best for vibrant swirls)
  • Optional: holiday sprinkles or sanding sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
  3. Gradually add the flour, mixing until the dough comes together and is smooth.

Step 2: Divide & Color

  1. Divide the dough into three equal portions.
  2. Leave one portion plain (natural butter color).
  3. Tint one portion red with food coloring.
  4. Tint the last portion green with food coloring.

Step 3: Roll & Layer

  1. Roll each portion of dough into rectangles of equal size (about 1/4 inch thick).
  2. Carefully layer them on top of each other (red, green, plain—order as you like).
  3. Gently press or roll them together to stick.

Step 4: Create the Swirl

  1. Starting from the long side, roll the layered dough into a tight log, creating a swirl effect.
  2. Wrap the dough log in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (this ensures clean slices).

Step 5: Slice & Bake

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Slice the chilled dough log into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
  3. Place slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
  4. Optional: Roll the edges of each cookie in holiday sprinkles for extra sparkle.
  5. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.

Step 6: Cool & Serve

  • Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
  • Enjoy warm or store in an airtight container for up to a week.

Methods

  • Creaming Method: Creaming butter and sugar first ensures the cookies have a light, tender texture.
  • Chilling Method: Chilling the dough is essential for holding the swirl shape during baking.
  • Swirling Method: Rolling the dough log tightly creates the signature Christmas swirl effect.

History

Butter cookies originated in Denmark in the 19th century, where they were often served during Christmas as “småkager.” Over time, this simple cookie spread throughout Europe and America, with families adapting it into colorful variations to suit holiday traditions. The swirl style likely evolved in the mid-20th century when home bakers began experimenting with food coloring and decorative patterns, making them a staple in holiday tins and cookie swaps.

Formation

The beauty of these cookies lies in their formation process—from dividing and coloring the dough to rolling and slicing, every step creates a work of edible art. The layers transform into spirals that look as though they belong on a Christmas ornament or candy cane.

Conclusion

Christmas Swirl Butter Cookies are more than just a holiday dessert—they’re a tradition that brings joy, color, and flavor to your celebrations. Crisp, buttery, and festive, they represent the spirit of Christmas in every bite.

For the Lovers ❤️

  • Cookie Lovers will appreciate the delicate crunch and buttery sweetness.
  • Holiday Lovers will adore the cheerful swirl design that brightens any table.
  • Gift Lovers will find these cookies perfect for sharing in tins, jars, or boxes tied with ribbon.
  • Baking Lovers will enjoy the hands-on creativity of rolling and swirling the dough.

Would you like me to also give you a frosted version of these swirl cookies (with a light glaze or icing drizzle) for an even more festive presentation?

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