CRK-Inspired Pastel Swirl Cookies (Printable Version)

Soft, buttery sugar cookies featuring colorful pastel swirls and festive sprinkles for special celebrations.

# What You Need:

→ Dry Ingredients

01 - 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 0.5 teaspoon baking powder
03 - 0.25 teaspoon salt

→ Wet Ingredients

04 - 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
05 - 1 cup granulated sugar
06 - 1 large egg
07 - 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
08 - 0.5 teaspoon almond extract, optional

→ Decoration

09 - Gel food coloring in pastel pink, blue, yellow, lavender, or assorted colors
10 - 0.25 cup pastel sprinkles

# How To Make It:

01 - In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes.
03 - Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract if using, mixing until well combined.
04 - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
05 - Divide the dough evenly into 3 or 4 portions depending on desired color count. Tint each portion with different pastel gel food coloring, kneading gently until color is evenly distributed.
06 - Roll each colored dough into long ropes approximately 12 inches long.
07 - Gently twist the ropes together, then roll into a cohesive log. Slice the log in half if it becomes unwieldy.
08 - Wrap the dough log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
09 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
10 - Slice the chilled dough into 0.25-inch thick rounds. Place on prepared baking sheets, spacing approximately 2 inches apart.
11 - Top with pastel sprinkles if desired.
12 - Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are just beginning to turn golden. Do not overbake.
13 - Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Stunning visual appeal with whimsical pastel swirls that make every cookie unique
  • Soft, buttery texture with a perfect balance of sweetness and vanilla flavor
  • Fun and creative baking project that's perfect for involving kids or impressing guests
  • Versatile enough for birthdays, baby showers, or any festive gathering
  • Make-ahead friendly with dough that can be chilled or frozen
  • Customizable colors to match any party theme or personal preference
02 -
  • Always use gel food coloring to maintain proper dough consistency and achieve vibrant colors
  • Ensure butter is at room temperature for easier creaming and better texture
  • Don't overbake—remove cookies when edges just begin to turn golden for the softest result
  • Chill the dough for the full 2 hours to ensure clean slices and defined swirls
  • Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between slices for the neatest cookie rounds
  • Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days
  • Freeze unbaked dough logs for up to 2 months and slice as needed for fresh-baked cookies anytime
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