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Pinwheel Cookies

These easy Pinwheel Cookies are a joyful mix of buttery dough and a sweet, slightly tangy pineapple swirl, perfect for celebrations and gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, European
Calories: 100
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Use fresh unsalted butter for the best flavor.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar You can reduce to 3/4 cup for a lower sugar version.
  • 1 large egg Use room temperature for better incorporation.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Choose pure vanilla extract, not imitation.
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Can substitute with 1:1 gluten-free blend.
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder Helps the cookies rise.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt Enhances flavor.
  • 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained Drain thoroughly to avoid soggy dough.
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar Optional for frosting.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment.
  2. In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
  3. Beat in the egg and vanilla until fully incorporated.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add dry mix to wet mixture until just combined.
  5. Turn dough onto a floured surface. Pat and roll into a rectangle about 10x8 inches.
  6. Spread drained crushed pineapple evenly over the dough, leaving a small border.
  7. Roll dough from the long side into a tight log and seal seam by pressing gently. Wrap in plastic and chill for about 30 minutes or until firm.
Baking
  1. Slice log into 1/4- to 1/2-inch rounds and place on parchment-lined sheets about 2 inches apart.
  2. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
  3. If frosting, mix powdered sugar with a little water to make a thin frosting and drizzle once cookies cool.
Cooling and Serving
  1. Let cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes then transfer to a rack.
  2. Serve and enjoy your delicious Pinwheel Cookies!

Notes

These cookies make great gifts. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze unbaked dough for up to 3 months.