Peppermint Swirl Christmas Tree Cookies

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
   • In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until combined.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
2. Divide the Dough:
   • Divide the dough in half.
   • Tint one half with red food coloring and the other half with green food coloring, kneading the dough until the colors are evenly distributed.
   • Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for 30-60 minutes to firm it up.
3. Roll and Cut:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Roll out each colored dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness.
   • Using a Christmas tree-shaped cookie cutter, cut out the trees and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Create the Peppermint Swirl Effect:
   • For each tree, take small pieces of the red and green dough and roll them into little ropes.
   • Twist the red and green ropes together to form a swirl and place it on top of the tree shape. Press gently to ensure the swirls stick.
5. Bake:
   • Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes or until they are just set.
   • Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before decorating.

How to Decorate:

1. Peppermint Topping:
   • Crush peppermint candies and sprinkle them on top of the cookies while they’re still slightly warm so the candies stick. You can also place whole peppermint candies at the base of the tree as ornaments!
2. Add the Tree Toppers:
   • Use a small piece of yellow candy, or pipe a star with royal icing, at the top of each tree.
3. Finishing Touches:
   • Use royal icing to pipe swirls or stripes on the tree, and sprinkle with red and white sprinkles, edible glitter, or sugar crystals for extra sparkle and a festive touch!

Pro Tips:

• Crushed Candy Canes: If you prefer a stronger peppermint flavor, crush up candy canes and sprinkle them over the frosting as a garnish.
• Mini Trees: Use smaller cookie cutters for mini peppermint trees that are perfect for gifts or snacking.
• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough is key for cleaner cuts and a better texture, especially when working with colored doughs.

These Peppermint Swirl Christmas Tree Cookies will bring a minty, festive feel to your holiday celebrations, and they’re just as fun to decorate as they are to eat! Are you thinking about adding a peppermint twist to other holiday treats? 🎄🍬