Rüzgar Gülü Kurabiye (Turkish Windmill Cookies) – A Stunning, Buttery Spiral Cookie You’ll Love

If you’re searching for a cookie that is as visually charming as it is irresistibly delicious, these
Rüzgar Gülü Kurabiye—also known as Turkish Windmill Cookies—will instantly steal your heart.
These gorgeous two-toned cookies combine a delicate vanilla shortbread with a rich
cocoa-infused dough, rolled together to create the iconic spiral design.
Every bite delivers a melt-in-your-mouth, buttery texture that pairs beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee.
Their stunning appearance makes them perfect for holiday platters, special gatherings, or simply elevating an everyday treat.

Ingredients (and Why Each One Matters)

• 1 cup (225 g) softened butter – The key to a tender, crumbly cookie. Butter creates richness and gives these cookies their signature melt-in-your-mouth quality.
• 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar – Provides sweetness without graininess, helping the dough stay smooth and silky.
• 1 large egg – Adds structure and helps bind the dough layers together so the spiral shape holds beautifully.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the light dough with warm, sweet aroma.
• 3 cups (360 g) all-purpose flour – Forms the backbone of the cookie, giving it shape while still keeping the texture tender.
• 1 tsp baking powder – Helps the cookies stay soft rather than too dense.
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder – Creates the deep chocolate-colored layer that forms the spiral contrast.
• 1–2 tbsp milk (only if needed) – Helps adjust dough consistency if it becomes too firm during mixing.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until light, creamy, and fluffy. This step is essential for a smooth, delicate cookie texture.
2. Add the egg and vanilla: Mix until fully combined and silky.
3. Incorporate dry ingredients: Sift together the flour and baking powder. Add gradually into the butter mixture to form a soft but non-sticky dough.
4. Divide the dough: Split the dough in half. Leave one half as vanilla. Add the cocoa powder to the other half and knead until fully blended. If the cocoa dough is too firm, add a teaspoon of milk.
5. Roll out each dough: Roll the vanilla dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch (0.5 cm) thick. Do the same with the cocoa dough. Try to keep both layers the same size.
6. Layer and roll: Place the cocoa dough on top of the vanilla dough. Gently press them together, then roll tightly into a log to form the spiral pattern.
7. Chill the dough: Wrap the log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling prevents spreading and keeps the spiral crisp.
8. Slice and bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the cold dough into ½-inch thick cookies, place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 12–15 minutes until set but not browned.
9. Cool before serving: Allow cookies to cool fully so the shortbread texture sets perfectly.

Why Everyone Loves These Cookies

These Turkish spiral cookies are cherished because they combine elegance with effortless preparation.
Their striking two-color design looks like it belongs in a bakery window, yet the ingredients are simple pantry staples.
The buttery texture, gentle sweetness, and balance of vanilla and cocoa make them universally appealing—kids adore them, adults appreciate their refinement, and everyone loves how they practically melt on the tongue.

Pro Tips for Perfect Rüzgar Gülü Kurabiye

• Chill the dough log thoroughly for the cleanest spirals and sharpest edges.
• Roll both dough layers evenly so the spiral pattern is symmetrical and attractive.
• Don’t overbake: These cookies should remain pale; browning indicates dryness.
• Use room-temperature butter for optimal creaminess—cold butter leads to cracks.
• Use powdered sugar instead of granulated for a softer, finer crumb.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these delightful cookies with:

• A steaming cup of Turkish tea for a traditional touch.
• Cappuccino or espresso for a café-style pairing.
• A festive holiday cookie tray—these spirals become the star of the show.
• Vanilla ice cream for a delicious hot-and-cold dessert contrast.

Conclusion

These beautiful Rüzgar Gülü Kurabiye cookies prove that simple ingredients can create breathtaking results.
With their buttery texture, delicate sweetness, and eye-catching spiral pattern, they’re a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
Whether you’re hosting guests, preparing a holiday platter, or treating yourself to something special,
these cookies deliver elegance without effort. Try them once, and they’ll instantly become a household favorite.