Description

Chocolate Pinwheel Cookies are a delightful twist on classic slice-and-bake cookies, combining buttery vanilla and rich chocolate dough in a visually appealing swirl. Perfect for holidays or gifting.

Ingredients

2¾ cups all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon baking powder

¼ teaspoon salt

1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature

1¼ cups granulated sugar, divided

1 large egg

1 egg yolk, room temperature

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

1 tablespoon milk

¼ teaspoon instant coffee (optional)

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Instructions

Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
Beat butter and 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
Add egg, egg yolk, and vanilla; mix until combined.
Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
Divide dough in half. To one half, add cocoa powder, milk, and optional coffee; mix until incorporated.
Shape each dough half into a 4×4-inch square, wrap in plastic, and chill for 1 hour.
Roll each dough between parchment paper into 7×14-inch rectangles.
Layer chocolate dough on vanilla dough, peel off top parchment, trim edges, and roll into a log. Wrap and chill for at least 2 hours, rotating after 30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the log in remaining ¼ cup sugar, slice into ½-inch discs, and place on lined baking sheet 1 inch apart.
Bake for 12–14 minutes until edges are set. Cool briefly on baking sheet, then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Use Dutch-process cocoa for a richer flavor and darker color.
Ensure dough is pliable before rolling to avoid cracking.
Cookies freeze well, both baked and unbaked.
Optional coffee enhances chocolate flavor but can be omitted.
For variations, try adding cinnamon, cayenne, or mint extract.

Prep Time: 10 minutes active + 3 hours chilling
Cook Time: 14 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 130
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 45mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 20mg