How to Make Festive Red and Green Pinwheel Cookies

These vibrant, swirled cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings and cookie exchanges. With cheerful red and green spirals wrapped in soft vanilla dough, they’re as eye-catching as they are delicious. This lightened-up version lets you enjoy the festive spirit with a more balanced approach to sugar and fat—without sacrificing the fun or flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bright & Festive: Perfect for Christmas or any colorful celebration.
Lower in Sugar: Uses smart ingredients while keeping all the flavor.
Fun to Make: Rolling and slicing creates a beautiful swirled look.
Great for Sharing: Ideal for gifting, parties, or enjoying with a warm drink.

Ingredients

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup light butter, softened
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar substitute (or regular sugar if preferred)
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Red and green food coloring (gel recommended)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

• In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
• In another large bowl, beat butter and sugar substitute until light and fluffy.
• Add the egg and vanilla, mixing well.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients until a dough forms.

Divide and Color the Dough

• Divide the dough into two equal parts.
• Tint one portion red and the other green using food coloring. Mix until evenly colored.
• Flatten each into a rectangle, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.

Roll and Layer

• Roll each chilled dough portion between two sheets of parchment paper into roughly equal rectangles (about 1/4 inch thick).
• Remove top parchment layers and carefully place one color on top of the other. Gently press together.
• Starting from one edge, roll into a tight log. Wrap and chill for at least 1.5 hours.

Slice and Bake

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment.
• Slice dough log into 1/4-inch rounds and place on the sheet 2 inches apart.
• Bake for 10–12 minutes until set but not browned.
• Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie, Approximate)

Calories: 70 | Carbs: 9g | Fat: 3g | Protein: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Fiber: 0.5g

Tips for Success

• Use Gel Food Coloring: You’ll get brighter color with less liquid, which keeps the dough firm.
• Chill Time Matters: Don’t skip chilling the dough—it ensures clean swirls and easy slicing.
• Even Layers: Roll both doughs to the same thickness for a more uniform spiral.
• Freeze for Later: The dough log can be frozen—just slice and bake when needed.

Why This Recipe Works

• Visual Appeal: These cookies look impressive but are easy enough for beginners.
• Holiday Fun Without Overindulgence: They satisfy sweet cravings while keeping things balanced.
• Perfect Texture: Soft, slightly chewy, and ideal for decorating or enjoying as-is.
• Kid-Friendly: Both in flavor and in the fun of making them.

With bright colors, a soft vanilla flavor, and a healthier ingredient profile, these red and green pinwheel cookies are the ultimate festive treat. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party or enjoying a cozy night in, they deliver cheer in every bite—beautiful, delicious, and just the right amount of indulgent.