Cream: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
1 cup unsalted butter, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
Mix: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Combine: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt
Gradually Add: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 cup unsalted butter, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar, 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Divide: Divide the dough in half.
Color: Add red food coloring and strawberry extract (if using) to one half of the dough and mix until well combined. Wear gloves to avoid staining your hands.
red food coloring, strawberry extract
Shape: Roll each dough out into a rectangle (around 9x12 inches).
Layer: Carefully place the red dough over the plain dough.
Roll: Beginning at one short end, tightly roll both layers of dough together, jelly roll style.
Wrap: Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
Preheat: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Slice: Remove wrapping and slice the cookie dough log into 1/4 inch thick rounds.
Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy: Serve and enjoy your beautiful Valentine's Day Swirl Cookies!
