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Perfect Galaxy Swirl Sugar Cookies

galaxy swirl sugar cookies - featured image
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These galaxy swirl sugar cookies are easy to make, visually stunning, and perfect for special occasions like the first day of school. They feature a tender center with crispy edges and a magical swirl of colors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ¾ cups (345 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (227 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ¼ cups (250 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • Gel food coloring: purple, blue, black, white (optional for swirl effect)
  • Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions

  1. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 ¾ cups (345 g) all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt. Set aside.
  2. Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat 1 cup (227 g) softened unsalted butter with 1 ¼ cups (250 g) granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add egg and vanilla: Beat in 1 large room-temperature egg and 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract until combined.
  4. Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
  5. Divide dough: Transfer dough onto a floured surface and divide into four equal parts. Wrap three parts in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Use one part to add the colors.
  6. Color the dough: Add gel food coloring (purple, blue, black, white) to the remaining dough portion, kneading until colors are vibrant but not overly mixed.
  7. Create the swirl: Stack or layer the colored dough pieces together gently, then roll into a log about 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter. Wrap tightly in plastic and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
  8. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
  9. Slice and bake: Unwrap chilled dough log and slice into ¼-inch (6 mm) thick cookies. Place on baking sheets about 2 inches (5 cm) apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are just golden.
  10. Cool and enjoy: Let cookies cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Notes

Do not overmix the dough to avoid tough cookies. Use gel food coloring for vibrant swirls without affecting dough texture. Chill dough well to keep swirl defined. Slice dough with a sharp knife to prevent squishing. Baking time is critical: 10-12 minutes for tender centers. Cookies taste better the next day as flavors mellow. Dough can be frozen for up to 3 months; bake directly from freezer adding 1-2 minutes to baking time.

Nutrition

Keywords: galaxy swirl sugar cookies, sugar cookies, colorful cookies, easy sugar cookies, first day treats, magical cookies, kid-friendly cookies

Find it online: https://elaraeats.com/perfect-galaxy-swirl-sugar-cookies-recipe-easy-magical-first-day-treats/