When the scent of buttery sugar cookies swirled with festive cinnamon fills the kitchen, I know the holidays are truly here. Christmas Pinwheel Cookies have become my go-to treat for gatherings—delightfully simple to make yet irresistibly charming with their cheerful swirl. What I love most is how this recipe turns ordinary cookie dough into a visual feast that tastes just as good as it looks. Whether you’re baking with family or surprising guests at a potluck, these colorful cookies bring a joyful twist to any holiday spread. Let me show you how easy it is to make these crowd-pleasers that combine classic flavors with a festive flair!
Why choose Christmas Pinwheel Cookies?
Eye-catching design: These cookies feature a charming swirl that instantly brightens your holiday platter. Simple ingredients: Using basic pantry staples means you can bake without extra trips to the store. Versatile for any occasion: Perfect for gifting, parties, or cozy family moments by the fire. Quick prep time: Whip up dough and assemble cookies with ease, making holiday baking stress-free. Delightful flavor combo: The buttery sweetness paired with cinnamon adds that nostalgic festive taste everyone loves.
Christmas Pinwheel Cookies Ingredients
For the Dough
- All-purpose flour – The base for tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookies that hold the pinwheel shape perfectly.
- Unsalted butter – Adds rich creaminess; soften to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens without overpowering, giving that classic cookie sweetness.
- Egg – Binds ingredients together and adds a bit of moisture to the dough.
- Vanilla extract – Enhances all flavors with warm, comforting notes.
- Baking powder – Helps the cookies rise slightly for a tender bite.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and deepens the buttery flavor.
For the Cinnamon Swirl
- Ground cinnamon – The star spice in Christmas Pinwheel Cookies, infusing spicy warmth.
- Brown sugar – Adds a caramel-like depth that perfectly complements the cinnamon.
- Unsalted butter (melted) – Helps the cinnamon sugar adhere to the dough and creates a luscious swirl.
Optional Decoration
- Pearl sugar or colored sugar sprinkles – Sprinkle on top before baking for extra sparkle and crunch.
- Powdered sugar – Lightly dust after baking for a snowy holiday touch.
How to Make Christmas Pinwheel Cookies
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat room-temperature butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes, scraping the sides for even texture.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed butter; mix on medium speed about 1 minute, scraping the bowl to ensure a smooth, even mixture without streaks.
- Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the butter mixture until a soft dough forms.
- Chill the Dough: Divide dough into two portions, wrap each tightly in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes until firm but still pliable.
- For the Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, whisk melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until a thick, sticky paste forms that spreads easily over the dough.
- Roll Dough Rectangles: On a lightly floured surface, roll each chilled dough portion into a 10×8-inch rectangle, aiming for about ¼-inch thickness for even baking and easy rolling.
- Spread Swirl and Stack: Evenly spread the cinnamon mixture over one rectangle. Top with the second dough piece, pressing gently to adhere without squeezing out filling.
- Form the Pinwheel Log: Starting at the long edge, roll dough tightly into a log. Seal the seam edge, then wrap and chill for 15 minutes until firm.
- Preheat and Slice: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the chilled log into ¼-inch rounds and arrange 2 inches apart on parchment-lined baking sheets.
- Bake and Cool: Bake cookies for 10–12 minutes until edges are set and centers look slightly soft. Cool on sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar after cooling for a snowy touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Christmas Pinwheel Cookies
- Chill Thoroughly: Make sure to chill the dough well before rolling to prevent shrinking and keep the pinwheel shape crisp and defined.
- Even Thickness: Roll both dough rectangles evenly to about ¼-inch thick for uniform baking and easy rolling without cracks.
- Handle Gently: When layering and rolling, press gently to avoid squeezing out the cinnamon swirl filling, preserving that beautiful festive look.
- Sharp Knife for Slicing: Use a sharp, non-serrated knife to slice the chilled log into clean rounds, preventing the cookies from losing their swirl pattern.
- Watch Baking Time: Bake just until edges set but centers remain soft; overbaking leads to dry cookies and diminishes that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Cool Properly: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet briefly before moving to a wire rack to keep them intact and prevent breakage.
Christmas Pinwheel Cookies Variations
Feel free to personalize your baking with these delightful twists that cater to different tastes and dietary needs!
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Chocolate Swirl: Mix in some cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolatey pinwheel that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon!
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Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the dough for a satisfying crunch that enhances the flavor.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to enjoy these cookies without any gluten worries.
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Vegan Version: Replace butter with coconut oil and the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed egg for a vegan-friendly treat.
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Fruity Twist: Incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or cherries into the cinnamon mixture for a sweet and tart surprise in every bite.
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Spiced Up: Want a little kick? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon mixture for a warm, spicy surprise.
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Citrus Zing: Mix in a bit of orange or lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing citrus flavor that brightens the holiday spirit.
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Nutella Filling: Swap the cinnamon swirl for a layer of Nutella or your favorite chocolate hazelnut spread for an indulgent treat that chocolate lovers will adore.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Pinwheel Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance—simply wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Additionally, you can roll the dough into a log shape and chill it for up to 3 days, ensuring it’s ready to slice and bake whenever you need it. To maintain the cookies’ delightful swirl and texture, be sure the dough is well-wrapped to prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply slice the chilled log and proceed with baking, resulting in fresh, delicious treats with minimal effort.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Pinwheel Cookies
Room Temperature: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them fresh and tasty.
Fridge: To extend freshness, you can refrigerate the cookies in a sealed container for up to 10 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months while retaining the deliciousness of the festive flavor.
Reheating: To enjoy a fresh cookie experience, reheating for 5-7 minutes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) restores their warmth and texture.
What to Serve with Christmas Pinwheel Cookies?
These delightful cookies deserve a festive spread that complements their cheerful flavors and vibrant appearance.
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Hot Chocolate: Rich and creamy hot chocolate creates a cozy pairing, enhancing the festive vibes as you savor each bite of the cookies.
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Eggnog: This creamy, spiced drink echoes the holiday spirit and offers a comforting contrast to the sweet, buttery cookies.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a bright, juicy counterpoint to the rich flavors, balancing the sweetness of the cookies.
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Peppermint Bark: This holiday classic brings a crunchy, minty flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the cinnamon swirls and vanilla notes of the cookies.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of sharp and creamy cheeses adds a gourmet touch, providing a savory element that perfectly contrasts the sugary delights.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider fills the air with delightful aromas, creating a nostalgic atmosphere that pairs well with each cookie.
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Gingerbread Cookies: For a sweet twist, serve with gingerbread cookies to create an irresistible cookie platter that celebrates the best of the season.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel over the cookies for an added layer of sweetness that enhances the comforting holiday flavors.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a deliciously creamy dessert experience with a festive flair.
Christmas Pinwheel Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I know if the butter is the right temperature for the dough?
Butter should be soft but not melted—think of it as gently squishable with a finger, about 65°F (18°C). This softness helps you cream it smoothly with sugar for that light, fluffy dough texture.
Can I store baked Christmas Pinwheel Cookies longer than 5 days?
Absolutely! While room temperature storage in an airtight container keeps them fresh for up to 5 days, refrigerating them can extend their life to about 10 days. Just make sure to bring them back to room temperature before serving to enjoy their perfect softness and flavor.
Is it safe to freeze the cookie dough log before slicing and baking?
Yes, freezing the dough log is a great way to prep ahead! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight, slice into rounds, then bake as usual. This method keeps the cinnamon swirl fresh and makes holiday baking stress-free.
What should I do if my pinwheel cookies lose their spiral shape while baking?
This usually happens if the dough isn’t chilled enough or the slices are cut too thick or uneven. Make sure to chill the rolled dough log well before slicing, and use a sharp knife to cut clean, uniform ¼-inch rounds. Also, avoid squeezing the dough when rolling to keep the swirl intact.
Are Christmas Pinwheel Cookies safe for pets or people with common allergies?
These cookies contain standard allergens like wheat, eggs, and dairy—so they’re not suitable for pets or those with allergies to these ingredients. For pet-friendly treats or allergen-free versions, consider recipes specifically designed without harmful ingredients. I often recommend keeping these cookies just for friends and family who can safely enjoy them!
Easy Irresistible Christmas Pinwheel Cookies to Delight Your Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat room-temperature butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes, scraping the sides for even texture.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed butter; mix on medium speed about 1 minute, scraping the bowl to ensure a smooth mixture.
- Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the butter mixture until a soft dough forms.
- Chill the Dough: Divide dough into two portions, wrap each tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes until firm but still pliable.
- For the Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, whisk melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until a thick, sticky paste forms.
- Roll Dough Rectangles: On a lightly floured surface, roll each chilled dough portion into a 10×8-inch rectangle, about ¼-inch thickness.
- Spread Swirl and Stack: Evenly spread the cinnamon mixture over one rectangle. Top with the second dough piece, pressing gently to adhere.
- Form the Pinwheel Log: Starting at the long edge, roll dough tightly into a log. Seal the seam edge, then wrap and chill for 15 minutes.
- Preheat and Slice: Preheat oven to 350°F. Slice the chilled log into ¼-inch rounds and arrange on baking sheets.
- Bake and Cool: Bake cookies for 10–12 minutes until edges set and centers look slightly soft. Cool on sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
