When I think of festive treats, the Dark Chocolate Holiday Pinwheel Cookie always comes to mind. This cookie’s rich chocolate base combined with a creamy vanilla swirl not only looks appealing but also satisfies any chocolate craving. The preparation is simple, taking just 30 minutes, which means I can whip these up even during the busiest holiday season. If you’re curious about how to make these cookies a standout addition to your dessert table, let’s explore that next.
What kind of recipe is it?
The Dark Chocolate Holiday Pinwheel Cookie is a delightful and festive dessert perfect for holiday gatherings and cookie exchanges.
This unique recipe features a rich dark chocolate dough swirled with a vibrant vanilla-flavored dough, creating an eye-catching pinwheel design.
The combination of flavors offers a decadent treat that appeals to chocolate lovers and cookie enthusiasts alike.
Ideal for home bakers looking to impress family and friends, this cookie not only satisfies sweet cravings but also adds a touch of holiday cheer to any occasion.
Preparation Time
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Difficulty of the Recipe | Intermediate |
| Preparation Time | 30 minutes |
| Number of Servings | Approximately 24 cookies |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Unsweetened dark cocoa powder | 3/4 cup |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Light brown sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup (2 sticks), softened |
| Large eggs | 2 |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking soda | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons |
| Semi-sweet chocolate chips | 1 cup |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup |
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup |
| Milk | 2 tablespoons |
Please ensure to gather all ingredients before starting the preparation for the Dark Chocolate Holiday Pinwheel Cookies!
Essential Kitchen Equipment
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose | Alternative Option |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls (Large & Medium) | Used for combining ingredients and mixing dough. | Any large, deep bowl; can use a pot or roasting pan. |
| Measuring Cups (Dry & Liquid) | Ensures accurate measurement of ingredients. | Standard cup or glass with measurement markings. |
| Measuring Spoons | Allows precise measurement of smaller quantities like baking powder and vanilla. | Any small spoon, estimating one tablespoon or teaspoon. |
| Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer | Mixes dough thoroughly, saving time and effort. | Mixing by hand with a wooden spoon or whisk. |
| Rubber Spatula | Used to scrape the sides of bowls and fold ingredients together. | Metal or silicone spatula. |
| Wooden Spoon | Ideal for stirring and mixing the batter. | A sturdy plastic spoon or any large spoon. |
| Baking Sheets (2-3) | Provides a surface for baking cookies evenly. | Any flat, oven-safe pan or tray. |
| Parchment Paper/Silicone Mats | Prevents cookies from sticking and makes for easy cleanup. | Lightly greasing the baking sheets with butter or oil. |
| Cookie Scoop or Spoon | Allows for uniform portioning of cookie dough. | Using two spoons to scoop and shape the dough. |
| Cooling Rack | Supports cookies as they cool, preventing sogginess. | Any flat surface like a cutting board or plate. |
| Oven Thermometer | Ensures the oven is at the correct temperature for baking. | Monitoring with an oven timer or preheating the oven thoroughly. |
Gathering the essential kitchen equipment listed above will make your baking process smoother and more efficient when preparing the Dark Chocolate Holiday Pinwheel Cookies!
Cooking Steps
- Gather all ingredients and tools for the Dark Chocolate Holiday Pinwheel Cookies, ensuring your workspace is clean and organized.
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and position the oven rack in the center. Line two baking sheets (about 40 x 30 cm or 16 x 12 inches) with parchment paper or silicone mats.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 120 g (½ cup) of unsalted butter and 100 g (½ cup) of granulated sugar. Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, cream the mixture on medium speed until it’s light and fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Add 1 large egg (room temperature) and 1 tsp (5 ml) of vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar. Continue mixing until well incorporated.
- In a medium mixing bowl, sift together 200 g (1 ⅔ cups) of all-purpose flour, 30 g (¼ cup) of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 tsp (5 g) of baking powder, and ½ tsp (3 g) of salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Don’t overmix; the dough should be soft and pliable.
- Divide the dough in half. Leave one portion as is to be the chocolate dough. To the second half, add 120 g (½ cup) of powdered sugar and mix until fully incorporated. This will be your vanilla dough.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chocolate dough into a rectangle (about 30 x 20 cm or 12 x 8 inches) to a thickness of approximately 5 mm (¼ inch). Repeat with the vanilla dough, ensuring it’s the same size.
- Carefully place the vanilla dough over the chocolate dough. Using the parchment paper to help, gently roll the doughs together from a long side to form a tight log. Use plastic wrap to tightly encase the log and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- After chilling, pre-slice the log into rounds about 1 cm (½ inch) thick using a sharp knife. Place the rounds onto the prepared baking sheets, spaced about 5 cm (2 inches) apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are firm and center appears dry. The cookies should release a rich chocolate aroma.
- Remove the baking sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for 5 minutes. Then, transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely, about 15-20 minutes.
Ensure the cookies are fully set, having a slightly soft texture when they come out but firming up as they cool. Enjoy your festive Dark Chocolate Holiday Pinwheel Cookies!
Variations
- Mint Chocolate Pinwheels: Add 1 tsp (5 ml) of peppermint extract to the wet ingredients for a refreshing mint flavor.
- Espresso Infused Cookies: Mix 2 tbsp (30 ml) of brewed espresso into the wet ingredients for a rich coffee flavor boost.
- Gluten-Free Delight: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in equal measure (200 g / 1 ⅔ cups) to make the cookies gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free Indulgence: Replace unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute (120 g / ½ cup) for a dairy-free option.
- Vegan Version: Use flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flax mixed with 6 tbsp water) in place of the egg and opt for a dairy-free butter substitute.
- Spiced Holiday Cookies: Add 1 tsp (5 g) of cinnamon and ½ tsp (2 g) of nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Nutty Variation: Incorporate 100 g (1 cup) of finely chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into either the chocolate or vanilla dough for added texture and flavor.
- No-Bake Chocolate Pinwheel: Create a no-bake version by combining blended dates and nuts with cocoa and rolling into pinwheels, chilling to set.
Tips on plating and presentation
Although the taste of your Dark Chocolate Holiday Pinwheel Cookies is the main event, how you present them can elevate their appeal.
I love experimenting with various plating techniques to make them shine.
Try stacking them in a tiered dessert stand for a stunning display, or place them on a colorful plate to complement their rich, dark hues—presentation styles that’ll impress your guests instantly!
What other dishes can I pair it with?
To make the most of your Dark Chocolate Holiday Pinwheel Cookies, consider pairing them with a selection of festive treats that enhance their rich flavors.
Enjoy them alongside tangy cranberry bliss bars or a light citrus tart to create delightful flavor contrasts.
For classic dessert pairings, serve these cookies with vanilla ice cream or spiced gingerbread for a holiday indulgence that’s sure to impress.
What drinks can I pair it with?
What drinks can elevate your experience with Dark Chocolate Holiday Pinwheel Cookies?
I find that pairing them with a rich hot beverage, like a velvety hot cocoa or a spiced chai, enhances their flavor beautifully.
For a more sophisticated twist, try a sweet dessert wine. A luscious port or a fruity Moscato complements the cookie’s chocolatey notes perfectly, making each bite even more indulgent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Dairy-Free Chocolate for This Recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use dairy-free chocolate for this recipe! I love exploring dairy-free options and find that chocolate substitutes work wonderfully, enhancing the flavors and keeping it indulgent without using any dairy. Enjoy experimenting!
How Should I Store Leftover Pinwheel Cookies?
I store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness. If I need them to last longer, I freeze them, ensuring they stay delicious for whenever I’m ready to enjoy.
Are These Cookies Suitable for Gluten-Free Diets?
These cookies aren’t gluten-free, but I’ve made them using gluten-free alternatives before. I’ve found that flour substitutes like almond flour or coconut flour work well, creating a delicious option for those avoiding gluten.
Can I Freeze the Cookie Dough?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough! I recommend wrapping it tightly to maintain its dough texture. Just follow some freezing tips, and you’ll be able to enjoy delicious cookies later without a hassle!
What Kind of Flavors Can I Add to the Dough?
You can add vanilla extract for warmth, mint essence for a refreshing twist, caramel sauce for sweetness, or even coffee grounds for a rich depth. I love experimenting with these flavors in my cookie dough!