There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house during the holiday season. As I carefully shape the dough for my Candy Cane Cookies, I’m instantly transported back to cozy family gatherings and festive celebrations filled with laughter. These delightful treats are not only a visual feast with their striking red and white swirls, but they also pack a sweet punch with their buttery vanilla base and a hint of peppermint. Perfect for gifting or serving at parties, they’re a surefire way to spread holiday cheer. Plus, their easy prep makes them accessible for even the busiest of bakers. Are you ready to fill your kitchen with nostalgia and joy? Let’s dive into this fun baking adventure together!
Why Love Candy Cane Cookies?
Irresistible Holiday Spirit: These Candy Cane Cookies evoke festive memories, combining buttery vanilla with a refreshing peppermint twist, making them a must-bake for the season.
Vibrant Appearance: Their charming red and white swirls are not just appealing but also elevate your holiday cookie tray, bringing smiles at any gathering.
Easy and Fun to Make: With straightforward steps, you’ll find this recipe enjoyable, whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting.
Versatile Variations: Want to get creative? Dip them in melted chocolate or sprinkle with crushed candy canes for an extra festive touch!
Perfect for Gifting: Stack these cookies in mason jars for charming homemade gifts this holiday season.
Plus, if you’re looking for more delightful treats, check out Cool Whip Cookies or explore the festive world of Candy Starts Sweet.
Candy Cane Cookies Ingredients
For the Dough
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free version.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and gives a smooth texture; can be reduced for less sweetness.
- Large Egg – Binds the ingredients together; room-temperature eggs mix better into the batter.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; substitute with almond extract for a different twist.
- Peppermint Extract – Adds a classic minty flavor; increase by ¼ tsp for a bolder taste.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and stability; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend if necessary.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and is essential for flavor enhancement.
- Red Food Coloring – Gel type preferred for vibrant color without altering dough consistency.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Candy Cane Cookies
Step 1: Prep the Oven & Baking Sheets
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking. This step ensures that your Candy Cane Cookies will bake evenly and come out perfectly, ready for the festive cheer!
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 ¾ cups of powdered sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3–4 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy. The creamy texture will invite the delightful buttery aroma to fill your kitchen, setting the mood for baking delicious Candy Cane Cookies.
Step 3: Add Egg and Extracts
Next, crack in one large room-temperature egg and pour in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract. Mix everything together on medium speed until well combined and smooth, which should take about 2 minutes. The lovely scent of vanilla and peppermint will whisk you away into the holiday spirit!
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually sift in 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour and ¼ teaspoon of salt into the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky but not overly wet. This is the foundational step for creating those beautiful Candy Cane Cookies!
Step 5: Divide and Dye the Dough
Once the dough is prepared, divide it in half. Take one half and add red food coloring a little at a time until you achieve a vibrant red hue. Knead the color into the dough until fully incorporated, which will give your cookies that festive look.
Step 6: Shape Each Cookie
Take about 1 teaspoon of the red dough and roll it into a 4-inch rope. Then, do the same with the white dough, twist them together gently to create a candy cane shape. Bend the top a little to form the trademark hook. Lay each shaped cookie on the prepared baking sheets, making sure to leave enough space between them.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place your baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 8–10 minutes. Keep an eye out for the bottoms of the Candy Cane Cookies to turn lightly golden; this indicates they’re done! Remove them from the oven and allow them to cool on the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Enjoy the appetizing aroma of your holiday treats!
Candy Cane Cookies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with your Candy Cane Cookies and make them truly your own!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with margarine or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free delight.
- Almond Twist: Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for a unique, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with peppermint.
- Extra Peppermint: Increase peppermint extract by an extra ¼ teaspoon for a stronger minty flavor, perfect for peppermint lovers!
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to cater to gluten sensitivities without compromising taste.
- Chocolate-Dipped Delight: Dip half of each cooled cookie in melted white chocolate for an indulgent addition to your festive spread.
- Festive Sprinkles: Add a sprinkle of crushed candy canes on top of the cookies before baking for a delightful crunch and extra flair.
- Colorful Swirls: Instead of just red, mix in green food coloring as well to create a fun, two-color twist that highlights the holiday spirit.
- Serve with Style: Pair these cookies with a mug of rich hot cocoa or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a cozy treat that warms the heart.
For more holiday inspiration, don’t forget to check out the fun recipes like Chocolate Chips Cookies or the delightful Cake Mix Cookies. Happy baking!
Expert Tips for Candy Cane Cookies
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Dough Consistency: If your dough is too crumbly, simply add 1–2 teaspoons of milk or a splash of egg yolk to achieve the right texture.
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Color with Care: Always opt for gel food coloring to ensure your vibrant red remains bright during baking, avoiding any color bleeding.
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Make Ahead: Prepare your Candy Cane Cookies dough up to 3 days in advance. Chill it in the refrigerator or freeze it for longer storage, making holiday baking a breeze.
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Room Temperature Eggs: Using room-temperature eggs helps bind the ingredients better, yielding a smoother batter that enhances cookie texture.
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Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; they should be lightly golden on the bottoms but soft to the touch. Overbaking can lead to a dry cookie.
What to Serve with Candy Cane Cookies?
Indulge in the sweet aroma of the season with these delightful cookies to elevate your festive gatherings.
- Rich Hot Cocoa: A steaming cup of creamy hot cocoa pairs perfectly, enhancing the peppermint flavors and warming the heart after a chilly day.
- Classic Eggnog: Creamy and spiced, this holiday drink brings joy to your cookie tray, complementing the sweet and minty notes beautifully.
- Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The coolness of vanilla ice cream contrasts wonderfully with Candy Cane Cookies, making each bite a nostalgic treat.
- Steamed Milk with Cinnamon: A soothing, spiced drink that balances the sweetness of the cookies while adding a comforting depth.
- Festive Fruit Salad: A vibrant medley of seasonal fruits like pomegranates, oranges, and kiwis adds a fresh, zesty complement to the sweet cookies.
- Crushed Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies: Layered flavors with a chocolatey twist amp up the holiday spirit, making it a delightful addition to your dessert table.
- Mini Cheesecakes: Silky, tangy cheesecakes provide an elegant touch, richening your spread and contrasting the cookie’s sweetness.
- Gingerbread Cookies: The spiced warmth of gingerbread creates a lovely flavor harmony, celebrating the festive season with an array of goodies.
- Peppermint Bark: This crunchy treat is a fun contrast to Candy Cane Cookies, amplifying the peppermint essence while embracing the holiday spirit.
Make Ahead Options
These Candy Cane Cookies are perfect for those busy holiday schedules! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance by mixing all the ingredients and dividing the dough for shaping. Wrap the white portion and the red-colored portion separately in plastic wrap and refrigerate them to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the dough from the fridge, shape the cookies, and let them rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes before baking. This way, you can enjoy warm, festive cookies without the last-minute rush, making your holiday gatherings more enjoyable and stress-free!
How to Store and Freeze Candy Cane Cookies
Room Temperature: Store baked Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their freshness.
Fridge: If you prefer a softer texture, you can keep the cookies in the fridge for up to a week, tightly wrapped to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper.
Dough Storage: If you’ve made the dough ahead, it can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before baking. Alternatively, freeze the unbaked dough for up to 2 months, allowing it to thaw in the fridge overnight before shaping and baking.
Candy Cane Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best peppermint extract?
Absolutely! When selecting peppermint extract, look for pure extracts rather than artificial flavoring. Pure peppermint extract has a stronger and more genuine flavor that truly enhances your Candy Cane Cookies. A good-quality option will amplify the peppermint taste, helping evoke those cherished holiday memories. Make sure to check the ingredients list and opt for colorless extracts to maintain the beautiful cookie appearance!
How should I store my baked Candy Cane Cookies?
For the best freshness, store your baked Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you notice them becoming a bit soft, placing them in the refrigerator can help maintain their texture for up to a week. Just make sure they’re well-wrapped to keep them from drying out. Enjoy them as a delightful snack with your favorite holiday beverages!
Can I freeze the Candy Cane Cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze your baked Candy Cane Cookies for up to 2 months. To do this, allow the cookies to cool completely, then place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. Be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a quick treat!
What if my dough is too crumbly?
No worries! If your Candy Cane cookie dough turns out too crumbly, it usually means it needs a bit more moisture. Start by adding 1 to 2 teaspoons of milk to the mix. If that doesn’t do the trick, a splash of egg yolk can also help bind the ingredients together. Mix until the dough reaches a soft, malleable consistency that holds together well.
Are Candy Cane Cookies safe for kids and pets?
While Candy Cane Cookies are a delightful treat for family gatherings, be cautious with ingredients like peppermint extract around pets, as some can be sensitive to mint. For kids, ensure that they enjoy the cookies in moderation due to the sugar content. If anyone has specific allergies, double-check your ingredient labels and consider using alternatives, like gluten-free flour or dairy-free margarine, to cater to dietary needs.
How can I make the dough ahead of time?
Great question! To make the Candy Cane cookie dough ahead of time, prepare it and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to prepare it even further in advance, freezing the unbaked dough is an excellent option! Just place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge before shaping and baking your festive cookies!
Candy Cane Cookies: A Festive Treat for Holiday Cheer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 ¾ cups of powdered sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3–4 minutes.
- Add one large room-temperature egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract, mixing until smooth.
- Gradually sift in 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour and ¼ teaspoon of salt, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Divide the dough in half; color one half with red food coloring until a vibrant hue is achieved.
- Take about 1 teaspoon of red dough and roll into a 4-inch rope, then do the same with the white dough, twisting them together to create a candy cane shape.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, keeping an eye on the bottoms to turn lightly golden, then allow to cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
