Candy Cane Cookies Recipe

There is something truly magical about Candy Cane Cookies that instantly transports you to festive holiday moments filled with joy and warmth. These delightful cookies combine the rich, buttery texture of a classic sugar cookie with the refreshing hint of peppermint, all wrapped up in a charming red and white swirl that mimics the iconic candy cane. Whether you’re baking to share or looking to add a whimsical touch to your dessert table, Candy Cane Cookies offer a perfect balance of sweet and minty flavors that everybody will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Candy Cane Cookies lies not only in their captivating look but also in their simple, wholesome ingredients. Each component plays an essential role, from the creamy butter adding tenderness to the peppermint extract that delivers that unmistakable holiday zing.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides the creamy base and richness that keeps the cookies soft and tender.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: Offers a smooth sweetness that blends perfectly for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 1 large egg (room temp): Helps bind everything together while adding moisture for a perfect dough consistency.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings a warm, aromatic depth to balance the peppermint notes.
• ½ tsp peppermint extract: The star of the show, giving your cookies that refreshing holiday flavor.
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour: Essential for structure, keeping the cookies tender yet sturdy enough to hold their shape.
• ½ tsp salt: Enhances the sweetness, making all the flavors pop beautifully.
• Red food coloring (gel preferred): Adds vibrant color to one half of the dough, helping create those classic candy cane swirls.

How to Make Candy Cane Cookies

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Workspace

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when your cookies are ready to bake. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. A little prep here goes a long way for amazing results.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Using a mixer, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and creamy—this usually takes around 3 to 4 minutes. This step is crucial because it creates air pockets that make the cookies tender and give them a lovely, delicate texture.

Step 3: Add the Egg and Extracts

Next, mix in your room temperature egg along with the vanilla and peppermint extracts. Combining these ingredients now ensures an even distribution of flavor, with that sweet vanilla warmth offset by the cool peppermint essence, creating the signature taste of Candy Cane Cookies.

Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Slowly blend in the flour and salt until your dough is soft but not sticky to the touch. This gradual mixing prevents overworking the dough, which could make your cookies tough instead of tender. When done right, your dough should hold its shape while still being soft enough to roll.

Step 5: Divide and Color the Dough

Here comes the fun part—divide your dough in half. Leave one half plain while adding red gel food coloring to the other half. Gel is preferable because it provides vibrant color without altering the dough’s consistency. Knead until the color is uniformly distributed for that perfect candy cane look.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Take about one teaspoon from each colored dough and roll them into 4-inch ropes. Twist the red and white ropes together gently, then bend the top to form the curved candy cane shape. This step not only shapes your cookies but also gets you in the holiday spirit with every twist.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place your shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the bottoms are just lightly golden. This short bake time keeps the cookies tender and soft. Once out of the oven, let them cool on the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

How to Serve Candy Cane Cookies

Garnishes

Candy Cane Cookies are charming all on their own, but a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted white chocolate can elevate their presentation. Crushed candy canes sprinkled over the drizzle add a satisfying crunch and boost peppermint flavor, making these cookies look and taste even more festive.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of hot cocoa or a mug of peppermint-spiced tea. The indulgent warmth of the drink contrasts beautifully with the cool peppermint in the cookies, creating a perfectly balanced treat that’s ideal for cozy gatherings or quiet winter evenings.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Candy Cane Cookies in a decorative holiday tin lined with parchment paper, or arrange them on a festive platter shaped like a wreath. For gift-giving, stack them in clear cello bags tied with red and white ribbons to showcase their cheerful colors. These small touches make your cookies feel even more special and tempting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, keep your Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. Stored this way, they’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to a week, maintaining their tender texture and peppermint flavor.

Freezing

Candy Cane Cookies freeze beautifully, which is fantastic for making ahead for holiday crowds. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep their best quality for up to three months—just thaw before serving.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy your cookies warm, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 3 to 5 minutes. This gentle reheating revives their soft texture without drying them out. Avoid using a microwave to prevent chewiness or toughness.

FAQs

Can I use different food coloring for Candy Cane Cookies?

Absolutely! While red is traditional to mimic a candy cane, you can experiment with other colors like green or blue to create your own festive twist. Just be sure to use gel food coloring to avoid changing your dough’s texture.

Can I substitute the peppermint extract with something else?

If peppermint isn’t your favorite, substitute it with almond or lemon extract for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind this will change the classic Candy Cane Cookies taste but can be a fun variation to try.

How do I avoid the cookies spreading too much during baking?

Make sure your dough isn’t too warm when shaping and baking. If it feels sticky or soft, chill it briefly in the fridge to firm up. Also, using parchment paper helps keep the cookies from sticking and spreading excessively.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, using a gluten-free all-purpose baking blend that includes xanthan gum can work well. Just be mindful that texture and taste might vary slightly compared to traditional flour.

What is the best way to store Candy Cane Cookies for gifting?

For gifting, layering the cookies between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight tin or box keeps them safe and looking beautiful. Add a festive ribbon around the container, and your homemade gifts will feel truly special.

Final Thoughts

Making Candy Cane Cookies is such a joyful experience that combines simple ingredients with a bit of seasonal magic. Once you try these tender, minty treats, you’ll find yourself reaching for the recipe year after year. So gather your ingredients, invite a friend or family member to join in the fun, and create a batch that’s sure to spread holiday cheer with every delicious bite!

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