As I unwrapped those festive red and white striped candies, a wave of nostalgia washed over me, instantly whisking me back to my childhood holiday seasons. There's something magical about Candy Cane Cookies that not only captures the essence of this joyful time of year but also transforms your kitchen into a winter wonderland. These delightful treats are perfect for a quick and fun baking session, making them a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings—or simply to enjoy with a cup of hot cocoa. With a mere 30 minutes from start to finish and the irresistible minty aroma wafting through your home, these Candy Cane Cookies will surely become a cherished addition to your holiday traditions. What festive memories will you create while baking this year?
Why are Candy Cane Cookies a must-try?
Festive Appeal: These colorful cookies not only taste fantastic but also add vibrant cheer to your holiday spread.
Quick & Easy: With just 30 minutes needed, it’s a delightful way to bring holiday magic into your home without the fuss.
Minty Goodness: The perfect blend of vanilla and peppermint creates a refreshing flavor that pairs beautifully with your favorite warm drink.
Family Fun: Involve the kids in shaping these cookies into adorable candy canes—baking becomes a fun family project!
Great for Gifting: Package these cookies in festive tins to share with friends and loved ones, making them a thoughtful and delicious holiday gift.
Try them alongside other seasonal treats like our Gingerbread Men or Peppermint Bark for a complete festive experience!
Candy Cane Cookies Ingredients
• The essential components for delightful baking!
For the Dough
- Unsalted butter – ensures a rich, creamy base for your Candy Cane Cookies.
- Powdered sugar – gives the cookies their sweetness and smooth texture.
- Large egg – helps bind the ingredients together for a soft, chewy cookie.
- Vanilla extract – adds a warm, aromatic flavor that balances the mint.
- Peppermint extract – gives these cookies their signature refreshing minty taste.
- All-purpose flour – forms the structure of the cookie, keeping them from being too soft.
- Salt – enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
For the Decoration
- Red food coloring (gel preferred) – gives your cookies the festive candy cane appearance!
Each ingredient plays a vital role in making these Candy Cane Cookies not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes. Happy baking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Candy Cane Cookies
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, line your baking sheets with parchment paper, creating a non-stick surface for your Candy Cane Cookies. This preparation ensures that your cookies bake evenly and can be lifted off the sheets without sticking once they’re finished.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of powdered sugar using an electric mixer. Continue mixing on medium speed for about 3–4 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, turning a pale yellow color. This step is crucial as it creates the foundation of your cookie’s texture.
Step 3: Add the Egg and Extracts
Next, crack in 1 large egg (make sure it's at room temperature) and add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract along with ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract. Mix comfortably until the ingredients are fully blended in, forming a smooth and creamy base. The combination of flavors will enhance the delightful taste of your Candy Cane Cookies.
Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add 2½ cups of all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon of salt to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until a soft dough forms that isn’t sticky. Take care not to overmix, as this ensures your cookies will remain tender and chewy. The dough should be easy to handle and have a subtle sweetness.
Step 5: Color the Dough
Divide the dough in half, placing one portion in a separate bowl. Add red food coloring to this half, using gel for best results, and knead it until you achieve a consistent hue. This vibrant color will help create a festive candy cane appearance for your Candy Cane Cookies, enhancing their visual appeal.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Using your hands, roll 1 teaspoon of each colored dough into 4-inch long ropes—one white and one red. Carefully twist the ropes together and bend them into candy cane shapes, pinching the ends slightly to secure. Arrange the shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space for spreading.
Step 7: Bake and Cool
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 8–10 minutes. Watch closely for the bottoms to become lightly golden, indicating they are done. Once baked, let the Candy Cane Cookies cool on the pan for about 5 minutes, allowing them to firm up slightly before transferring to a wire rack.
Make Ahead Options
These Candy Cane Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the bustling holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating it, ensuring it stays fresh and just as delightful. Additionally, you can shape the cookies into candy cane forms and place them on a baking sheet, then cover tightly with plastic and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you're ready to serve, simply preheat your oven and bake as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, warm Candy Cane Cookies with minimal effort, making your holiday baking stress-free and enjoyable!
Candy Cane Cookies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and tailor these delightful cookies to suit your taste buds and dietary preferences!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a similar texture without compromising flavor.
It's a great option for those with gluten sensitivity, and trust me, no one will know the difference! -
Dairy-Free: Replace unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine to keep these cookies buttery and delicious.
Your vegan friends will appreciate this thoughtful touch, and it adds a subtle hint of coconut flavor! -
Minty Extra: For a bolder peppermint flavor, double the peppermint extract.
This will give the cookies a refreshing punch that you'll absolutely love, making them feel even more festive! -
Cocoa Twist: Add ¼ cup of cocoa powder to the flour for a chocolatey version of Candy Cane Cookies.
Imagine this dreamy chocolate base with the minty sweetness—pure bliss that chocolate lovers can't resist! -
Color Variations: Use other food coloring to create vibrant striped cookies for different holidays or occasions.
Think green for St. Patrick’s Day or orange and black for Halloween—endless possibilities to explore! -
Nutty Addition: Incorporate ½ cup of finely chopped nuts, like walnuts or almonds, into the dough for added crunch.
This adds a lovely texture contrast and a nutty undertone that complements the sweetness beautifully! -
Candied Toppings: Sprinkle crushed candy canes or chocolate chips on top before baking for an extra festive flair.
The combination of textures makes these cookies irresistible, especially when shared as a holiday treat! -
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the dough for a warm spice twist that elevates the flavor profile.
This unexpected heat marries beautifully with the cool mint and could become your new favorite method of surprising your taste buds!
Check out our delightful Gingerbread Men or scrumptious Peppermint Bark for more festive ideas that perfectly complement your holiday celebrations!
What to Serve with Candy Cane Cookies?
As the sweet, minty aroma fills your kitchen, a world of delightful pairings opens up to complement your festive treats.
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Creamy Hot Chocolate: A rich and velvety drink that balances the fresh peppermint flavor of the cookies perfectly. It’s like a warm hug in a mug!
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Classic Eggnog: Rich, creamy, and spiced, this holiday favorite enhances the festive vibe while pairing beautifully with the minty cookies.
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Fresh Fruit Platter: Crisp apples, sweet oranges, and tart berries provide a refreshing contrast, cleansing the palate between bites of your sugary treats.
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Spiced Nuts: Roasted almonds or pecans seasoned with cinnamon or nutmeg add a crunchy texture and a warming spice that complements sweet flavors beautifully.
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Peppermint Tea: The peaceful infusion of peppermint enhances the cookies’ flavor while providing a soothing finish to your holiday gathering.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side creates a delightful juxtaposition with the cool mintiness of the cookies.
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Snack Mix: Create a festive snack mix with pretzels, chocolate-covered treats, and candy pieces to add a crunchy, sweet, and salty element.
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Holiday Punch: A fruity punch with citrus and cranberries provides a refreshing sip alongside your Candy Cane Cookies, rounding out the festive treat experience.
Helpful Tricks for Candy Cane Cookies
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your egg and butter are at room temperature. This helps achieve a smoother dough and a better texture in your Candy Cane Cookies.
Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies instead of the soft, chewy texture you want.
Coloring Tips: Use gel food coloring for vibrant hues. Liquid coloring can alter the dough's consistency, making it too wet.
Shaping the Cookies: When twisting the dough ropes, keep them even in size for uniform cooking. If the dough becomes too soft, chill it briefly before shaping.
Cooling Time: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them. This precaution prevents breaking and ensures they maintain their beautiful shape.
Store Properly: Keep your Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and flavor for longer.
How to Store and Freeze Candy Cane Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Fridge: If you want to keep them a bit longer, these cookies can last up to 1 week in the refrigerator. Just ensure they are sealed tightly to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your Candy Cane Cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
Reheating: When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to regain that soft, chewy texture!
Candy Cane Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right butter for Candy Cane Cookies?
Absolutely! It's best to use unsalted butter that’s softened to room temperature. This allows it to cream beautifully with the sugar, giving your cookies a delightful, fluffy texture. If you prefer a richer flavor, be sure to choose a high-quality brand.
What is the best way to store Candy Cane Cookies?
You can store your Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate them for up to a week, just ensure they're tightly sealed. If you're looking to keep them even longer, follow the freezing instructions below!
Can I freeze Candy Cane Cookies for later?
Absolutely! To freeze, place your Candy Cane Cookies in a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag, making sure to separate layers with parchment paper. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours, or microwave for a few seconds to restore their softness.
What if my Candy Cane Cookie dough is too sticky?
Very! If you find your dough too sticky, it's often due to not enough flour or the butter being too warm. Adding a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time, should help you achieve the desired consistency. Alternatively, chill the dough in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before rolling it out, which can also make it easier to handle.
Are Candy Cane Cookies safe for pets or those with allergies?
While Candy Cane Cookies are a delightful treat for humans, keep them away from pets. Ingredients like chocolate and sugar can be harmful to them. Additionally, if you’re baking for someone with allergies, make sure to verify the ingredients in the extracts and use gluten-free flour if necessary—there are great substitutes available!
How can I make Candy Cane Cookies more festive?
To bring extra holiday cheer, consider adding crushed peppermint candies or sprinkles on top before baking! This not only adds a delightful crunch but also brightens the cookies with a beautiful, festive touch. You could even package them in decorative tins as a thoughtful gift to share with family and friends.
Candy Cane Cookies: Festive Treats That Melt in Your Mouth
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- Electric Mixer
- baking sheets
- parchment paper
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.5 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
For the Decoration
- 1 drop red food coloring gel preferred
Instructions
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 1 cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract. Mix until well combined.
- Gradually add 2½ cups of flour and ½ teaspoon of salt, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms.
- Divide the dough in half and knead in red food coloring to one half until evenly colored.
- Roll 1 teaspoon of each colored dough into 4-inch long ropes, twist them together, and form into candy cane shapes.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, watching for lightly golden bottoms, then cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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