Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Preparation
- In a bowl, whisk together 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon baking soda. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat 2/3 cup softened unsalted butter until creamy (1-2 min). Gradually add 2/3 cup sugar, beating until light and fluffy (3-5 min), scraping bowl sides.
- Beat in 1 egg until smooth, then stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Beat for another minute until thoroughly mixed.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients on low speed, mixing just until no dry streaks remain. Do not overmix; the dough will be soft and pliable.
- Divide the dough into two equal halves. Mix red gel food coloring into one half until uniformly red. Mix green gel food coloring into the other half until uniformly green.
- Shape each colored dough into a 1-inch thick disc. Individually wrap each disc tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or up to 4 hours).
Baking
- Remove one disc from the fridge and let sit for 10-15 min to soften slightly. Lightly flour a surface or use parchment paper. Roll the dough into a 12x9-inch rectangle, about ⅛-inch thick. Repeat with the other dough disc.
- Carefully transfer one rolled dough rectangle onto a fresh piece of parchment paper. Gently lay the other dough rectangle directly on top, aligning the edges perfectly. Press lightly to adhere them without air pockets.
- Starting from one of the longer 12-inch sides, tightly roll the layered dough into a snug log. Press along the seam to seal securely. If desired, sprinkle red sanding sugar on top of the log, pressing gently to adhere.
- Wrap the dough log tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 2 hours) to firm up.
- About 15-20 minutes before baking, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
- Remove the chilled dough log from the refrigerator. Using a sharp, non-serrated knife, slice the log into rounds about ¼-inch thick. Place slices about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Cookies will seem soft in the center but will firm up as they cool.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5-7 days.
Nutrition
Notes
You can customize the colors and flavors by adding different extracts or spices for a unique twist.
