Get ready to dazzle your guests with the most Instagram-worthy cookies this patriotic season! These stunning Patriotic Pinwheel Cookies are not just a treat for your taste buds, but a visual masterpiece that combines classic American baking with eye-catching design. Imagine cutting into a cookie and revealing a mesmerizing red, white, and blue swirl that's guaranteed to make everyone at your gathering stop and stare. Whether you're celebrating Independence Day, Memorial Day, or just want to add some festive flair to your dessert table, these cookies are about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 12 mins
Total Time: 42 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Red and blue food coloring
- Royal icing for decoration
Instructions
- Prepare dry ingredients by sifting together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
- In a large stand mixer, cream softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes on medium speed.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Incorporate vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
- Gradually add dry ingredient mixture to wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a smooth dough forms. Do not overmix.
- Divide the dough into three equal portions. Leave one portion plain, and tint another portion with red food coloring and the third with blue food coloring. Knead food coloring gently until color is evenly distributed.
- Wrap each colored dough portion in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour to firm up.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out each colored dough into a rectangular shape approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- Layer the red, white, and blue dough rectangles carefully on top of each other, pressing gently to adhere.
- Tightly roll the layered dough into a log, creating a pinwheel effect. Wrap in plastic and chill for 2 hours.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Slice the chilled dough log into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place on prepared baking sheets, spacing 1 inch apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Allow cookies to cool completely on wire racks.
- Prepare royal icing and decorate cooled cookies with patriotic designs using red, white, and blue colors.
- Let decorated cookies dry completely before storing in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper.
Tips
- Keep your dough chilled: Cold dough is crucial for achieving clean, crisp pinwheel layers. Don't rush the refrigeration steps!
- Use gel food coloring: Gel colors provide more vibrant hues without adding extra liquid that could affect your dough's consistency.
- Roll carefully: When creating your pinwheel, roll slowly and evenly to prevent air pockets or uneven layers.
- Use a sharp knife: When slicing the cookie log, use a very sharp knife and clean it between cuts for neat, uniform cookies.
- Don't overbake: Watch your cookies closely. They should be just lightly golden at the edges to maintain a soft, tender texture.
- Royal icing decoration tip: Use a steady hand and thin piping tips for intricate patriotic designs. Practice on parchment paper first if you're new to decorating!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 19g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 30mg
