We’ve always been fans of the timeless Maurice Lenell Pinwheel Cookies, a nostalgic treat that hails from a beloved Chicago bakery. These swirled wonders blend rich chocolate and vanilla flavors into eye-catching spirals, evoking sweet memories of family gatherings and holiday baking.
In our kitchen, we’ve perfected this classic recipe to capture that authentic charm while making it easy for home bakers. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to cookie making, these pinwheels promise to delight your taste buds and impress your guests.
Ingredients
For our Maurice Lenell Pinwheel Cookies, we select high-quality ingredients that capture the classic chocolate and vanilla swirls, ensuring a nostalgic treat that’s simple to bake at home.
Dough Base Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Sifted for a light, airy texture, as we start with the dry base.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Freshly measured to help the dough rise evenly.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Added to enhance the flavors without overpowering.
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter: Softened to room temperature for easy creaming, forming the rich foundation.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Whipped with the butter for a sweet, crisp edge.
- 1 large egg: Beaten lightly before mixing, to bind the dough smoothly.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Pure and full-flavored, stirred in for authentic vanilla notes.
Flavor and Swirl Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Sifted separately for the chocolate layer, creating those iconic swirls.
- Additional 1 tablespoon milk: Used if needed to adjust the chocolate dough’s consistency for perfect rolling.
This lineup, ordered by how we incorporate them in the recipe, guarantees the cookies’ signature taste and texture.
Equipment Needed
Now that we’ve gathered our high-quality ingredients for the Maurice Lenell Pinwheel Cookies, let’s equip ourselves with the essential tools to ensure a seamless baking experience. We use these items to achieve the perfect swirl, texture, and bake every time.
To prepare these nostalgic treats, you’ll need the following equipment. We’ve organized them in the order they might be used during the recipe process for efficiency:
- Mixing Bowls: We start with two medium-sized mixing bowls – one for the vanilla dough and another for the chocolate dough – to keep ingredients separate and prevent cross-contamination for that signature swirl.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key, so we rely on a set of dry measuring cups and measuring spoons to precisely portion flour, sugar, and other ingredients, ensuring consistent results.
- Electric Mixer or Whisk: For creaming butter and sugar, we recommend an electric hand mixer or stand mixer for efficiency, or a sturdy whisk if you’re mixing by hand, to achieve a smooth, airy dough.
- Rolling Pin: This tool is crucial for rolling out the dough evenly; we suggest a non-stick rolling pin to create the thin layers needed for those iconic pinwheel patterns without sticking.
- Baking Sheets: We use two rimmed baking sheets lined with parchment paper to bake the cookies evenly and catch any potential spills, promoting a golden-brown finish.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: To prevent sticking and ensure easy cookie removal, we always have parchment paper or a silicone mat on hand for a clean bake.
- Knife or Pizza Cutter: For slicing the dough into pinwheels, we prefer a sharp knife or pizza cutter to make clean, precise cuts that maintain the swirl’s integrity.
- Oven: A standard oven preheated to 350°F is essential; we ensure it’s accurately calibrated for even baking to preserve the cookies’ rich chocolate and vanilla flavors.
- Cooling Rack: Finally, we use a wire cooling rack to let the cookies cool properly after baking, allowing air circulation for the perfect crisp texture without sogginess.
With this equipment, we’re set to transform our ingredients into the beloved Maurice Lenell Pinwheel Cookies that will delight any gathering.
Instructions
We have our fresh ingredients and essential tools lined up, so let’s craft our irresistible Maurice Lenell Pinwheel Cookies with precision and ease. These steps deliver a perfect swirl of chocolate and vanilla flavors that evoke nostalgia in every bite.
Prepare the Dough
Follow these steps to create the base for our Maurice Lenell Pinwheel Cookies, ensuring a smooth and pliable dough that blends rich vanilla and deep chocolate notes.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer—the mixture should be pale and airy with a sweet buttery aroma.
- Add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, then beat on medium speed until fully incorporated and the batter turns glossy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt to form a light, even dry mix.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring with a spoon or mixer until a soft, cohesive dough forms that feels supple under your fingers.
- Divide the dough evenly into two portions. For the chocolate half, mix in 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder and 1 tablespoon of milk until the color deepens to a rich brown and the dough is uniform—now we have our vanilla and chocolate bases ready for swirling.
Assemble the Pinwheels
Now we transform the doughs into the signature swirled logs for our Maurice Lenell Pinwheel Cookies, capturing that eye-catching marble effect.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the vanilla dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick and 12 inches long, ensuring it’s even and smooth to the touch.
- Roll the chocolate dough into a matching rectangle, then carefully place it on top of the vanilla dough to create a layered contrast of colors and flavors.
- Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the doughs together into a log shape, pressing gently to seal—the swirls should be visible and promise a delightful chocolate-vanilla burst in each cookie.
- Wrap the log securely in plastic wrap, smoothing any imperfections for a neat, uniform shape that will slice cleanly.
Chill the Dough
Chilling firms up the dough for our Maurice Lenell Pinwheel Cookies, locking in the swirls and enhancing the crisp texture.
- Place the wrapped dough log in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until firm to the touch—this step prevents spreading and intensifies the flavors for a professional finish.
Bake the Cookies
With the dough prepped, we’ll bake our Maurice Lenell Pinwheel Cookies to golden perfection, filling the kitchen with the warm scent of vanilla and chocolate.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper for even heat distribution.
- Unwrap the chilled dough log and slice it into 1/4-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife, aiming for clean cuts that reveal the beautiful pinwheel patterns.
- Arrange the slices on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for slight expansion and a crisp edge.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden—the cookies will emerge soft in the center with a satisfying crunch, releasing an irresistible aroma that signals baking success.
Cool the Cookies
Final cooling ensures our Maurice Lenell Pinwheel Cookies set properly, maintaining their swirl and achieving an ideal balance of crisp exterior and tender inside.
- Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies rest on them for 5 minutes to firm up slightly.
- Transfer the cookies to a wire cooling rack and allow them to cool completely, about 15-20 minutes, for the flavors to settle and the texture to perfect.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the joys of our Maurice Lenell Pinwheel Cookies recipe is its flexibility for planning ahead. We often prepare the dough in advance to streamline baking day and ensure fresh, swirled treats are ready when needed. This approach helps maintain the cookies’ signature rich chocolate and vanilla flavors while preserving their crisp exterior and tender interior.
Preparing the Dough Ahead
To get a head start, we recommend making the dough logs up to 3 days in advance. Follow the steps in the previous section for creaming the butter and sugar, dividing the dough into vanilla and chocolate portions, and rolling them into a log. Once assembled:
- Wrap the dough logs tightly: Use plastic wrap or beeswax paper to cover the logs completely. This prevents drying and keeps the swirl intact.
- Refrigerate immediately: Place the wrapped logs in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or up to 3 days. Chilling enhances the texture, making the cookies easier to slice and bake.
For longer storage, we suggest freezing the dough:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Freezer | Up to 2 months | Wrap logs in an extra layer of aluminum foil for protection against freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before slicing and baking to avoid sogginess. |
| Refrigerator | Up to 3 days | Store on a flat shelf to maintain the log’s shape. Use within this timeframe for optimal flavor and freshness. |
Slicing and Baking from Stored Dough
When you’re ready to bake, we make it simple to pick up where you left off:
- For refrigerated dough: Remove the logs from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly. This ensures even slicing without cracking the swirls.
- For frozen dough: After thawing overnight, proceed as above. Slice the logs into 1/4-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife or pizza cutter for precise, uniform cookies.
- Bake as directed: Place slices on parchment-lined baking sheets and bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes. The result is the same delightful aroma and taste that makes our Maurice Lenell Pinwheel Cookies a hit.
By following these steps, we guarantee your cookies retain their nostalgic charm and impressive presentation, perfect for any occasion.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this timeless recipe for Maurice Lenell Pinwheel Cookies, bringing a bit of nostalgia right to your kitchen.
Baking these treats lets us connect with cherished memories while creating new ones, and we’re confident you’ll enjoy the process as much as the result.
Give it a go and see how these swirls of flavor impress your loved ones – it’s a simple way to add joy to any gathering.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Maurice Lenell Pinwheel Cookies?
Maurice Lenell Pinwheel Cookies are a classic Chicago bakery treat featuring swirled chocolate and vanilla dough. They’re known for their nostalgic charm, rich flavors, and eye-catching design, making them a favorite for home bakers. This recipe recreates that beloved taste with simple ingredients, perfect for impressing guests at any gathering.
What ingredients are needed for Maurice Lenell Pinwheel Cookies?
You’ll need all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, an egg, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and milk. These high-quality items ensure the cookies’ signature swirl and texture, balancing sweetness and chocolatey depth for an authentic homemade version.
What equipment is required to make these cookies?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, measuring cups, an electric mixer, a rolling pin, baking sheets with parchment paper, a knife or pizza cutter, and a wire cooling rack. This setup makes the baking process smooth and helps achieve the perfect swirl and crisp finish.
How do I make Maurice Lenell Pinwheel Cookies?
Start by creaming butter and sugar, add an egg and vanilla, then mix in dry ingredients. Divide the dough into vanilla and chocolate portions, roll out, layer, and form into a log. Chill, slice, and bake at the recommended temperature until golden. Cool on a rack for a crisp exterior and tender inside, ready in under an hour of active time.
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes, make the dough logs up to 3 days in advance. Wrap them tightly and refrigerate, or freeze for longer storage. For refrigerated dough, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before slicing. Thaw frozen dough overnight in the fridge, then bake as usual to keep the cookies fresh and flavorful.
How should I store Maurice Lenell Pinwheel Cookies?
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. This preserves their texture and swirl. For the best taste, enjoy within a few days, and reheat briefly in the oven if needed to regain crispness.
What tips ensure the best Maurice Lenell Pinwheel Cookies?
Use high-quality ingredients for optimal flavor, chill the dough thoroughly to prevent spreading, and slice evenly for perfect swirls. Don’t overbake—aim for a golden edge. If the dough cracks, let it warm slightly. These steps help achieve a crisp outside and tender inside, just like the originals.