Gather Ingredients

Before you even start baking, take a moment to reflect on the importance of community. Consider gathering ingredients from local stores or farmers' markets, supporting small businesses. This practice not only strengthens the local economy but also fosters connections in your community. You could even send a note of gratitude to the shopkeeper or share a smile with the person behind you in line—sometimes, the simplest exchanges can make us feel more grounded and connected.

Prepare the Dough:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

2. In a large bowl, beat the butter, sugar, and honey until light and fluffy.

3. Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and lemon or orange zest. If using peppermint extract, add it here.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.

As you combine the ingredients, think about the way different people and experiences come together to shape your life. Just as each ingredient contributes to the flavor of the dough, every person you meet has a role in your journey. Consider calling or texting a loved one while you mix, checking in on them, and asking how they’re doing. Reaching out to others—even with a brief message—can help maintain bonds and offer support during tough times.

Divide and Color the Dough:

1. Divide the dough into three equal portions.

2. Leave one portion plain. Tint one portion red and another green using food coloring. Mix until the color is evenly distributed.

3. Assemble the Pinwheels:

1. Roll out each portion of dough between sheets of parchment paper into rectangles of equal size (about ¼ inch thick).

2. Stack the red, green, and plain dough layers on top of each other, using a bit of water to help them stick together.

3. Roll the stacked dough into a log, starting from one of the longer edges. Wrap the log in plastic wrap and chill for at least 2 hours.

This is a good time to practice mindfulness and connect with your surroundings. Focus on the task at hand—on the texture of the dough, the colors of the swirls—and allow yourself to be fully present. You could invite a friend or family member to join you for this step, sharing the joy of baking together and creating a sense of togetherness in the kitchen. The simple act of working side-by-side can help build trust and strengthen relationships.

Slice and Bake:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. Slice the chilled dough log into ¼-inch thick rounds.

3. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

4. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just set. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

While the cookies are baking, think about someone who could use a little extra warmth and kindness in their life. Once they’re ready, take a moment to package them thoughtfully. You could hand-deliver a batch to a neighbor who lives alone, a colleague who’s been stressed, or a friend who’s going through a hard time. Even leaving a little note with your gift can show that you care and that they’re not alone.

Reflect & Connect

After sharing the cookies, take a moment to reflect on how this small act has impacted you and others. Reflect on how you felt while making and giving the cookies and how it felt to connect with someone, even in a small way. Share with others how much joy you found in the act of baking for others, encouraging them to do the same. By starting a simple cookie exchange or community bake-off, you’re continuing to spread love and kindness.