Rainbow Pinwheel Cookies

If you’re looking for a fun and visually stunning treat that will delight everyone from kids to adults, look no further than Rainbow Pinwheel Cookies! These vibrant cookies are not only a feast for the eyes but also incredibly simple to make. With just a few ingredients and a bit of creativity, you can create colorful swirls that are perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just because you want to brighten someone’s day. Let’s get started on this delightful baking adventure!

Why This Rainbow Pinwheel Cookies Stands Out

Rainbow Pinwheel Cookies are a standout choice for several reasons. First and foremost, their colorful appearance makes them irresistible. The bright, swirling colors are sure to catch the eye and bring smiles to anyone who sees them. Additionally, these cookies are made using refrigerated sugar cookie dough, which saves you time in the kitchen without sacrificing flavor or texture. The fun of rolling and slicing the dough adds an element of creativity to your baking, making it a perfect project for families or a fun afternoon with friends. Finally, they are versatile—feel free to customize the colors for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday, a birthday party, or simply to celebrate the beauty of color in our lives.

Ingredient List

• 16.5 oz refrigerated sugar cookie dough: This is the base of our cookies, providing a sweet and buttery flavor.
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour: This helps with rolling out the dough and prevents it from sticking.
• Rainbow colored sugar: For decorating, adding that extra sparkle and fun to your cookies.

What’s in the Gear List

• Baking sheet: A flat surface for baking the cookies.
• Parchment paper: To line the baking sheet and prevent sticking.
• Rolling pin: For rolling out the cookie dough.
• Plastic wrap: For chilling the dough and keeping it fresh.
• Sharp knife: To slice the rolled dough into perfect pinwheels.

Build Rainbow Pinwheel Cookies Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Begin by removing the refrigerated sugar cookie dough from its packaging. In a large mixing bowl, combine the dough with 1/3 cup of flour. This will help you roll out the dough more easily and achieve the right consistency.

Step 2: Divide the Dough

Once the dough is well mixed, divide it into four equal portions. This will allow you to create the different colors of your rainbow.

Step 3: Color the Dough

Color each portion of dough using food coloring. Start with a few drops of each color, kneading the dough until the color is evenly distributed. Aim for red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple to create a classic rainbow effect.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Take each colored dough portion and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into rectangles about 1/4 inch thick. Make sure to keep the thickness consistent for even baking.

Step 5: Layer the Colors

Once you have your colored rectangles, stack them on top of each other starting with the red on the bottom, followed by orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple. Press them gently together to ensure they stick.

Step 6: Roll into a Log

Using the parchment paper to help, carefully roll the stacked dough into a tight log. Make sure to roll from one end to the other, keeping the log as tight as possible for defined swirls.

Step 7: Chill the Dough

Wrap the log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This will firm up the dough, making it easier to slice.

Step 8: Preheat the Oven

While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 9: Slice the Cookies

After chilling, remove the log from the refrigerator and slice it into 1/4 inch thick rounds. You should see beautiful pinwheel designs in each slice.

Step 10: Decorate

Roll the edges of each cookie in rainbow colored sugar to add a sweet crunch and extra flair.

Step 11: Bake the Cookies

Place the sliced cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each one. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 12: Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your vibrant, delicious Rainbow Pinwheel Cookies!

Easy Ingredient Swaps

• For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of regular flour.
• Swap out the refrigerated sugar cookie dough for a homemade version if you prefer to bake from scratch.
• Use natural food coloring for a more natural approach to coloring your dough.
• If you don’t have rainbow colored sugar, you can use sprinkles or simply leave them plain for a more classic look.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

• Sticking dough: If the dough is too sticky, add a little extra flour while rolling out.
• Uneven colors: Make sure to knead the food coloring well into the dough for even color distribution.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. Remove them when the edges are lightly golden to avoid dryness.
• Flattened cookies: Ensure the dough is tightly rolled to maintain the pinwheel shape during baking.

Prep Ahead & Store

Rainbow Pinwheel Cookies can be prepared ahead of time. Once you’ve rolled the dough into a log, it can be wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before slicing and baking. You can also freeze the unbaked log for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, simply slice and bake straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

Ask the Chef

Can I use a different type of cookie dough?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of refrigerated cookie dough that you enjoy, such as snickerdoodle or chocolate chip. Just keep in mind that it may alter the flavor profile of your pinwheel cookies.

How do I achieve vibrant colors in my cookies?

To achieve bright colors, use gel food coloring instead of liquid. Gel food coloring is more concentrated and will give you the vibrant hues you’re looking for without adding too much moisture to the dough.

What can I do with leftover dough?

If you have leftover dough, you can either freeze it for later use or create additional cookies with different patterns or colors. You could even make mini pinwheels with the scraps!

How can I make these cookies more festive?

For a festive touch, consider adding seasonal sprinkles on top or using themed cookie cutters to create fun shapes. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for an added treat!

Healthy-ish Favorites

• Healthy Peanut Butter Cookies
• Healthy Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Vegan Oatmeal Cookies
• Vegan Chocolate Cookies

Final Bite

Rainbow Pinwheel Cookies are not just a treat; they are a delightful experience that brings joy to baking. These colorful, swirled cookies are perfect for any occasion and will surely become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re baking for a party or just for fun, they are sure to impress.

In summary, Rainbow Pinwheel Cookies offer a simple yet creative way to bring a burst of color and flavor into your kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and easy steps, you can create something truly special. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the magic of baking take over. You won’t regret it!