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Easy Chocolate Vanilla Pinwheel Cookies

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Chocolate Vanilla Pinwheel Cookies are classic slice-and-bake cookies with a striking swirl of chocolate and vanilla dough. They are crisp on the edges, tender in the center, and perfect for holidays, gifting, or everyday treats.

Ingredients

  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and smooth.
  2. Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.
  3. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing just until a soft dough forms.
  4. Divide the dough evenly into two portions.
  5. Mix the cocoa powder into one portion to create the chocolate dough.
  6. Roll each dough portion between parchment paper into equal-sized rectangles.
  7. Place the chocolate dough on top of the vanilla dough and gently press together.
  8. Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log to form the pinwheel swirl.
  9. Wrap the log in plastic wrap and chill for about 1 hour, or until firm.
  10. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  11. Slice the chilled dough into 1/4–1/2 inch thick rounds and place them on the baking sheet.
  12. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are set and lightly golden.
  13. Cool briefly on the baking sheet, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For deeper chocolate flavor, add a pinch of espresso powder to the chocolate dough.Chill the dough thoroughly to maintain clean pinwheel shapes.The dough can be frozen for up to 2 months for later baking.Mini chocolate chips can be added to the chocolate dough, though the swirl may be less defined.

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