Red, White and Blue Pinwheel Icebox Cookies

These Red, White and Blue Pinwheel Icebox Cookies are a vibrant, festive treat perfect for patriotic holidays like the Fourth of July, Memorial Day, or Flag Day. With their eye-catching swirl and classic sugar cookie flavor, these cookies are as delightful to look at as they are to eat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These pinwheel cookies are the ultimate make-ahead dessert. The dough is easy to prepare, and because it’s chilled before baking, you can make it days in advance. The red, white, and blue swirl design makes these cookies a standout at any celebration, and the buttery sugar cookie base is loved by kids and adults alike. No need for cookie cutters or frosting—just slice and bake!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Unsalted butter, softened
• Granulated sugar
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• Red and blue food coloring
• Optional: Sprinkles for coating the edges

Directions

this recipe

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add egg and vanilla extract; beat until combined.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a smooth dough forms.
5. Divide the dough into three equal parts. Leave one plain (white), dye one red, and one blue.
6. Roll each dough portion into a rectangle on wax paper or parchment.
7. Layer the red, white, and blue dough rectangles on top of one another, gently pressing them together.
8. Carefully roll the stacked dough into a tight log, starting from the long edge to create a swirl pattern.
9. Wrap the dough log in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
10. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
11. Slice the chilled dough into ¼-inch rounds. Optionally, roll the edges in sprinkles before placing on the baking sheet.
12. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges are just beginning to turn golden.
13. Let cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 36 cookies.
Prep time: 30 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours
Bake time: 10–12 minutes per batch
Total time: about 2 hours 45 minutes

Variations

• Flavored swirl: Add a hint of almond or lemon extract for a twist on the classic vanilla.
• Different colors: Swap out the patriotic colors for team colors, birthday themes, or seasonal tones.
• Chocolate swirl: Add cocoa powder to one dough portion for a red, white, and chocolate variation.
• Sprinkle crust: Roll the edges in star-shaped or festive sprinkles for added texture and color.

storage/reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the baked cookies for up to 2 months, or freeze the unbaked dough log and slice fresh when ready to bake. No reheating is needed—just serve at room temperature.

FAQs

Do I have to chill the dough?

Yes, chilling helps the cookies keep their shape and enhances the swirl effect.

Can I use gel food coloring?

Yes, gel food coloring gives more vibrant results without altering the dough’s consistency.

Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely. Wrap the dough log tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Slice and bake straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the bake time.

What’s the best way to get even layers?

Roll each dough portion to the same size and thickness using parchment paper as a guide.

My dough cracked while rolling—what should I do?

Let the dough sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly, then try rolling again.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may vary slightly, but they’ll still taste great.

Why did my cookies spread too much?

Be sure to chill the dough thoroughly and avoid overmixing. Also, check that your oven is at the right temperature.

How thick should I slice the cookies?

About ¼ inch thick slices work best for even baking and maintaining the swirl shape.

Can I add sprinkles before baking?

Yes, you can roll the dough log in sprinkles before slicing or press some onto the tops of the cookies before baking.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter gives the best flavor and texture, but margarine can be used in a pinch. Just ensure it’s suitable for baking.

Conclusion

Red, White and Blue Pinwheel Icebox Cookies are a colorful, crowd-pleasing treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. With a striking swirl design and buttery vanilla flavor, they’re perfect for patriotic celebrations and beyond. Make them ahead, customize the colors, and enjoy the simplicity and charm of this festive cookie favorite.

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