Rainbow Pinwheel Cookies are vibrant sugar cookies that spin a splash of color into every bite. These eye-catching treats are perfect for parties, special occasions, or as a fun baking project with kids. Each cookie swirls with bright colors, making them not only delicious but also a joy to look at.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 4 tablespoons milk
- 1–2 teaspoons almond or vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 5 cups all-purpose flour
- Gel colors for dyeing (various as needed)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the extract.
- Dissolve Baking Soda: Dissolve baking soda in milk and integrate into the butter mixture.
- Mix Dough: Gradually add flour and salt to the mixture, stirring until a stiff dough forms.
- Color and Stack Dough: Divide the dough into 6-7 portions, coloring each with a different gel color. Roll out each colored dough into a rectangle on parchment paper, then stack them.
- Form Log: Roll the stacked layers into a tight log, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
- Slice and Bake: Cut the chilled log into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the bottoms are slightly browned.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on a rack before serving.
Tips
- Opt for gel colors to achieve vibrant, clear hues in your cookies.
- Ensure the dough is well-chilled to simplify the slicing process.
- If the dough becomes sticky during rolling, lightly dust with powdered sugar.
FAQs
- Can I make the dough ahead of time?
- Yes, the dough can be prepared ahead and kept refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking.
- How should I store the cookies?
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Can I freeze the cookie dough?
- Absolutely! Wrap the dough log tightly in plastic and freeze. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before slicing and baking.
Prep Time: About 1 hour (including chilling)
Cook Time: 9-11 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: Varies
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian
Conclusion
Rainbow Pinwheel Cookies are not just treats; they’re festive creations that bring joy and color to any occasion. With their bright swirls and sweet flavor, they’re sure to captivate both children and adults alike. Enjoy the process of making these delightful cookies and the smiles they bring to everyone’s faces!