Spiral Cookies Recipe: How to Make Perfect Pinwheel Cookies at Home

Spiral cookies, also known as pinwheel cookies, are eye-catching treats with a beautiful swirl pattern and a rich buttery taste. These cookies are not only delicious but also make a stunning addition to any festive platter or homemade gift box. Made by layering two flavors of cookie dough, usually vanilla and chocolate, then rolling and slicing them, pinwheel cookies are as fun to look at as they are to eat.

This step-by-step recipe will guide you through the process of making spiral cookies from scratch using simple ingredients. You don’t need any fancy equipment or baking experience, just a little patience and creativity.

Why Spiral Cookies Are a Favorite

Spiral cookies offer the best of both flavor and presentation. The combination of soft vanilla dough and rich cocoa dough gives them a classic taste that both kids and adults love. Their unique pattern adds a festive charm, making them perfect for Christmas, birthdays, or tea-time treats.

They’re also great for make-ahead baking. The dough can be prepared and frozen, then sliced and baked whenever needed.

Ingredients for Spiral Cookies

These cookies use basic pantry staples. You’ll be making two doughs: one vanilla and one chocolate.

Base Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 to 2 tablespoons milk (if needed for binding)

For Chocolate Dough:

• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

You’ll divide the base dough in half and add cocoa powder to one part to make the chocolate layer.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Pinwheel Cookies

Follow these simple steps to make bakery-style spiral cookies right at home.

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter with powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. This should take 2 to 3 minutes using a hand or stand mixer.

Step 3: Add Vanilla and Mix

Add the vanilla extract and beat until well combined. If the dough feels dry later, you can add 1 tablespoon of milk to help bring it together.

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed butter mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms. If needed, add a little milk to help it come together. Do not overmix.

Step 5: Divide and Flavor the Dough

Split the dough into two equal portions. Leave one portion as it is for the vanilla layer. Add the cocoa powder to the second half and knead gently until the color is evenly distributed, forming the chocolate layer.

Step 6: Roll the Dough Layers

Roll each dough portion into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick on parchment paper or a lightly floured surface. Try to keep both rectangles the same size and shape.

Step 7: Layer and Roll

Place the chocolate layer over the vanilla layer carefully. Trim the edges if needed to get a clean rectangle. Gently press them together using a rolling pin.

Starting from one short side, roll the layered dough tightly into a log, just like a jelly roll. Use the parchment paper to help guide the roll and keep it even.

Step 8: Chill the Dough

Wrap the rolled log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm. Chilling helps the dough hold its shape and makes it easier to slice.

Step 9: Slice and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

Using a sharp knife, cut the dough log into 1/4-inch slices. Place the cookies on the tray, leaving an inch between each one. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden.

Step 10: Cool and Store

Allow the cookies to cool on the tray for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once cooled, store in an airtight container for up to a week.

Tips for Perfect Spiral Cookies

• Use room temperature butter for easier mixing
• Roll the dough evenly to maintain a neat spiral
• Chill the dough properly before slicing to get clean edges
• If the dough cracks while rolling, patch it gently with your fingers

Flavor Variations to Try

• Add a peppermint extract to the chocolate layer for a holiday twist
• Use food coloring in the vanilla dough for colorful swirls
• Add a dash of cinnamon or espresso powder to the cocoa dough for a deeper flavor

You can even swap cocoa with matcha, strawberry powder, or raspberry puree for creative combinations.

Why They Make Great Gifts

Spiral cookies not only taste great but also look festive and elegant. Their neat swirl pattern makes them ideal for gifting during holidays or celebrations. Pack them in a clear bag or a cookie tin with a ribbon for a simple homemade gift everyone will appreciate.

A Cookie Worth the Effort

Spiral cookies may look fancy, but they’re surprisingly simple to make. The soft vanilla and chocolate layers offer the perfect balance of flavor and texture. With a little prep and some creativity, these pinwheel cookies can brighten up your holiday trays or be the star of your afternoon snack table. Try this recipe once, and you’ll keep coming back to it for every special occasion.