If you’re looking for a cookie that’s both visually captivating and irresistibly delicious, Girandola Cookies are the perfect choice. Named after the Italian word for “pinwheel,” these cookies feature charming swirls of vanilla and chocolate dough, creating a fun and elegant pattern with every bite.
Perfect for gifting, tea parties, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee, Girandola Cookies are sure to impress both your eyes and your taste buds.
Why You’ll Love Girandola Cookies
- Stunning pinwheel swirl design that’s fun and elegant
- Balanced flavors of rich chocolate and classic vanilla
- Crisp on the outside, tender on the inside
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Great for holidays, celebrations, or everyday snacking
Ingredients
- 2¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing until just combined.
2. Divide and Flavor
Divide the dough into two equal portions. To one portion, sift in the cocoa powder and knead until fully incorporated.
Wrap both dough portions in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
3. Form the Pinwheels
On a lightly floured surface, roll out each dough portion into a rectangle about ¼-inch thick.
Place the chocolate dough rectangle over the vanilla dough, aligning edges, and press gently to adhere.
Starting from one long side, tightly roll the layered dough into a log.
Wrap the log in plastic wrap and chill for at least 2 hours until firm.
4. Bake the Cookies
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Slice the chilled dough log into ¼-inch thick rounds and place on prepared sheets.
Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are set and slightly golden.
Cool on wire racks before serving.
Tips for Perfect Girandola Cookies
- Chill dough well to make slicing easier and cleaner
- Use a sharp knife for neat pinwheel shapes
- Don’t overbake to keep cookies tender inside
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness
Variations
- Add a teaspoon of instant coffee powder to the chocolate dough for mocha flavor
- Substitute vanilla with almond extract for a nutty twist
- Roll in colored sugar before baking for festive flair
FAQs
Can I freeze the dough logs?
Yes! Freeze wrapped logs for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before slicing and baking.
How long do the cookies stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container, they stay fresh up to 1 week.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for cookies.
Final Thoughts
Girandola Cookies are a stunning blend of beauty and flavor—perfect for impressing guests or gifting to loved ones. Their charming swirl and balanced vanilla-chocolate taste make them a timeless favorite.
