Indulge in the delightful combination of chocolate and vanilla with these mesmerizing Chocolate Swirl Cookies. Their beautiful pinwheel design not only makes them visually appealing but also offers a harmonious blend of flavors in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Aesthetic Appeal: The striking swirl pattern makes these cookies a standout addition to any dessert platter.
- Flavor Harmony: The classic combination of rich chocolate and buttery vanilla caters to diverse palates.
- Versatility: Ideal for festive occasions, gifting, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- Granulated sugar
- Large eggs
- Pure vanilla extract
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
Directions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the butter-sugar mixture until a soft dough forms.
- Divide and Flavor the Dough:
- Split the dough into two equal portions.
- To one portion, add the unsweetened cocoa powder and mix until fully combined, creating the chocolate dough.
- Roll Out the Dough:
- Place the vanilla dough between two sheets of parchment paper and roll it into a rectangle approximately 1/4-inch thick.
- Repeat the process with the chocolate dough, aiming for similar dimensions.
- Assemble the Swirl:
- Carefully place the chocolate dough rectangle on top of the vanilla dough rectangle, aligning the edges.
- Gently press the layers together using a rolling pin to eliminate any air pockets.
- Starting from one of the longer sides, roll the layered dough tightly into a log, ensuring minimal gaps.
- Chill the Dough:
- Wrap the dough log securely in plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm. This step is crucial for maintaining the shape during slicing and baking.
- Slice and Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Remove the chilled dough log from the refrigerator and unwrap it.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
- Arrange the slices on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Chilling Time: 2 hours
- Bake Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Variations
- Festive Colors: Tint the vanilla dough with food coloring to match holiday themes (e.g., red and green for Christmas).
- Flavor Twists: Incorporate different extracts like almond or peppermint to the vanilla dough for a unique taste.
- Textural Additions: Sprinkle finely chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips over the dough before rolling to add texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Freezing: The dough log can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before slicing and baking.
FAQs
1. How do I prevent the dough from cracking while rolling?
Ensure the dough is slightly softened after chilling. If it cracks, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling.
2. Can I use Dutch-process cocoa powder?
Yes, but it may affect the leavening. Natural unsweetened cocoa powder is recommended for best results.
3. Is it necessary to chill the dough?
Yes, chilling firms up the dough, making it easier to slice and helping the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
4. Can I add fillings like jam or Nutella?
It’s possible, but adding fillings may affect the rolling process and the final texture.
5. How can I achieve uniform cookie slices?
Use a sharp, thin-bladed knife and rotate the log slightly after each cut to maintain the round shape.
6. My cookies spread too much. What went wrong?
This could be due to insufficient chilling or inaccurate flour measurement. Ensure precise measurements and adequate chilling time.
7. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be prepared and refrigerated up to 3 days in advance or frozen for longer storage.
8. How do I add a sugar coating to the edges?
Before slicing, roll the dough log
Print
- Total Time: : 27 mins
- Yield: 18 cookies 1x
Description
These chocolate swirl cookies are soft, buttery, and have a beautiful blend of milk and dark chocolate swirls on top!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup melted dark chocolate
- 1/2 cup melted milk chocolate
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add egg and vanilla.
- Mix in flour, baking powder, and salt until combined.
- Scoop dough onto the baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over cookies and swirl using a toothpick.
Notes
- Let cookies cool completely before serving.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 12 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American