PINWHEEL COOKIES
Rated 4.0 stars by 2 users
Category
COOKIES
Author:
Spice & Spirit
Pinwheel Cookies are delightful, visually appealing treats that feature spirals of chocolate and vanilla-flavored dough. With a hint of lemon, these cookies bring a refreshing twist to classic flavors. The two-tone, swirled design makes them an attractive addition to any dessert tray, perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions. Each bite offers a light, buttery taste with a subtle citrusy hint, making these cookies both beautiful and delicious.
Ingredients
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4 eggs
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1 cup margarine, softened
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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Rind of 1 lemon
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Juice of 1 lemon
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4 cups flour
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1 tbsp baking powder
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2 cups confectioners' sugar
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½ to ¾ cup cocoa powder
Directions
In a large mixer bowl, combine all ingredients except cocoa until a smooth dough is formed.
Divide dough in half. Add cocoa powder, one tablespoon at a time, to one half of the dough, kneading until the desired color is reached.
Divide the white dough into two equal parts and the chocolate dough into two equal parts. Roll out the first half of the chocolate dough on waxed or aluminum foil.
Also roll out one half of the white dough on waxed or aluminum foil.
Place the white dough on top of the chocolate dough, using the foil to assist.
Roll up both doughs together in a tight roll, starting from the bottom edge.
Wrap in waxed paper and refrigerate for several hours.
Repeat the procedure with the second halves of the dough.
Baking:
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Lightly grease cookie sheets.
Slice cookies ¼ inch thick and place slices on cookie sheet.
Bake for 10 to 15 minutes. Remove from cookie sheet to cool.
Recipe Note
Yields: 8 dozen cookies
Why You'll Love Pinwheel Cookies
Pinwheel Cookies are a true crowd-pleaser, combining a delightful appearance with a taste that’s hard to resist. Their two-tone chocolate and vanilla swirl design makes them the perfect addition to dessert trays for holidays, birthdays, or just because. These cookies are more than just beautiful—they pack a buttery, citrusy punch that balances the richness of the chocolate for a treat that’s both light and indulgent.
Whether you’re hosting a party, gifting a batch, or treating yourself, Pinwheel Cookies offer a memorable experience for every occasion.
Tips for Perfect Pinwheel Cookies
Achieve bakery-level results with these helpful tips:
Prepare the Dough Carefully: Ensure the margarine is softened and the ingredients are mixed thoroughly for smooth, pliable dough.
Rolling Made Easy: Use wax paper or foil to assist with rolling out the dough evenly. Keep the layers uniform for perfect spirals.
Chill for Clean Slicing: Refrigerate the dough rolls for at least two hours, or overnight, for firmer texture and easier slicing.
Prevent Overbaking: Keep an eye on the oven—these cookies are best when lightly golden. Overbaking can make them too crisp.
Storage Advice: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for longer freshness.
Pinwheel Cookie Variations
Want to put your own twist on these classic cookies? Try these fun flavor ideas:
Strawberry and Vanilla Swirl: Replace cocoa with strawberry powder or puree for a fruity twist.
Matcha and White Chocolate: Add matcha powder to the dough for a vibrant green swirl and pair with white chocolate chips.
Cinnamon Roll Style: Mix cinnamon and brown sugar into one layer to recreate a cinnamon roll vibe in cookie form.
Festive Pinwheels: Use food coloring in the dough to create colorful holiday versions, like red and green for Christmas or orange and black for Halloween.
Step-by-Step Visual Guide
Enhance your baking journey with these detailed steps:
Mix the Dough: Combine eggs, margarine, sugar, and lemon for a buttery, zesty base.
Divide and Conquer: Separate into vanilla and chocolate dough halves.
Layer the Dough: Roll each half into thin sheets and stack them carefully.
Roll and Chill: Create a tight spiral, wrap, and refrigerate until firm.
Slice and Bake: Cut into perfect rounds, bake until lightly golden, and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make Pinwheel Cookies ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance, refrigerate for up to 3 days, or freeze it for several weeks. Slice and bake when ready for fresh cookies.
Q: Can I substitute margarine with butter?
A: Yes, butter works perfectly and adds a richer flavor. Ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Q: How do I prevent cracks when rolling the dough?
A: Keep the dough slightly chilled but pliable. Rolling between sheets of wax paper can help maintain smooth layers.
