As the holiday season approaches, I find myself craving the cozy flavors that define this magical time of year. There’s just something enchanting about the combination of buttery dough and refreshing peppermint that permeates the air when making Candy Cane Cookies. I first discovered this recipe during a festive potluck, and its delightful twist on traditional treats has since become a cherished holiday staple in my kitchen.
Picture this: As the cookies bake, your kitchen fills with the warm, inviting aroma of vanilla intertwined with mint, enticing everyone to gather and revel in the joyous anticipation. These charming, whimsical cookies are not just a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight, resembling the iconic peppermint candies we all adore. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want to add a festive touch to your dessert table, these candy cane cookies are versatile, easy to make, and downright irresistible. Plus, they make wonderful gifts or show-stoppers at cookie exchanges!
Get ready to create some heartwarming memories as we dive into the simple yet rewarding process of baking these delightful holiday treats.
Why Are Candy Cane Cookies a Must-Bake?
Nostalgic Charm: These candy cane cookies evoke the spirit of childhood holidays, making them a perfect addition to your festive traditions.
Effortless Fun: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, they are perfect for bakers of all skill levels, bringing joy without the stress.
Visual Delight: Their twirled red-and-white appearance makes them stand out on cookie trays, ensuring they grab everyone’s attention.
Versatile Treats: Customize with different extracts or toppings to suit diverse palates and festive themes—your creativity knows no bounds!
Shareable Joy: Perfect for gifting or cookie swaps, these cookies are guaranteed to spread cheer among family and friends.
Embrace this delightful recipe and bring holiday joy into your kitchen with these irresistibly whimsical cookies!
Candy Cane Cookies Ingredients
• Ready to dive into the festive fun of baking these delightful candy cane cookies? Here’s everything you’ll need!
For the Dough
- Butter – Provides richness and tenderness; unsalted is best for control over sweetness.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and aids in spreading; swap for coconut sugar for a healthier option.
- Egg – Binds ingredients together and adds moisture; replace with flaxseed meal (1 tbsp flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg) for an egg-free version.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; use pure vanilla for a richer taste.
- Peppermint Extract – Adds refreshing minty flavor; consider peppermint oil for a more potent kick.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; gluten-free blends work well as substitutes.
- Baking Powder – Helps the cookies rise; ensure it’s fresh for the best texture.
- Red Gel Food Coloring – Gives that classic candy cane color; gel is preferable to prevent dough moisture issues.
For Decoration
- Powdered Sugar – Dust on top for a snowy effect; use this as an optional decorative touch.
- Crushed Candy Canes – Adds festive flair when sprinkled over white chocolate-dipped cookies; a tasty garnish!
Get ready to enjoy making these candy cane cookies, and watch as they delight everyone who encounters them!
How to Make Candy Cane Cookies
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Prepare the Dough: Start by creaming together the butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the egg, along with the vanilla and peppermint extracts. Mix until everything is nicely combined.
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Combine Ingredients: Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour and baking powder, followed by the red gel food coloring. Keep mixing until a soft, cohesive dough forms. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator for easier handling.
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Shape Cookies: Once the dough is chilled, divide it into two equal portions. Tint one portion with red gel food coloring to create the iconic candy cane stripes. Roll both portions into long ropes, then twist them together to form the classic candy cane shape.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the shaped cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between each. Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are firm and just starting to turn golden.
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Cool and Decorate: After baking, let the cookies cool on a rack. For an extra festive touch, dust them with powdered sugar or dip them in melted white chocolate and sprinkle with crushed candy canes.
Optional: Serve with a warm cup of cocoa for a delightful holiday experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Candy Cane Cookies
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Room Temperature: Store your candy cane cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their delightful freshness and flavor.
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Fridge: If your kitchen is warm or humid, consider refrigerating the cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks to prevent them from becoming soggy.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge before serving.
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Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. Enjoy that lovely buttery aroma filling your kitchen again!
Make Ahead Options
These Candy Cane Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness. Alternatively, if you want to prep even further ahead, the dough can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before rolling it into ropes. When you’re ready to bake, simply shape the cookies and follow the baking instructions as usual, ensuring they turn out just as delicious and festive as if you’d made them the same day. Enjoy the time-saving benefits while still sharing charming treats with loved ones!
Candy Cane Cookies Variations
Embrace your creativity and make these delightful cookies your own with some fun twists!
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Flavor Twist: Swap out peppermint extract for almond or orange for a unique flavor profile that surprises the senses.
Experiment with different extracts to explore new taste sensations! -
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil in place of butter and a flax egg instead of a regular egg, making these cookies suitable for dairy-free diets.
This variation still captures that buttery richness while being gentle on lactose-intolerant tummies. -
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten-sensitive friends while keeping the cookie’s delightful texture.
You’ll be amazed at how well these cookies hold together! -
Decorative Options: Dip cookies in white chocolate and drizzle with colored icing for a festive touch.
Adding a sprinkle of crushed candy canes not only enhances visual appeal but also brings an exciting crunch! -
Shape Variations: Create different shapes like stars or hearts instead of traditional candy canes for playful holiday treats.
Let your imagination soar—give each cookie a unique flair! -
Additional Texture: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the dough for a delightful crunch and added flavor depth.
Think of it as a cozy hug for your taste buds! -
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or ginger powder for a subtle heat that rounds out the refreshing mint.
This surprising twist will have everyone talking about your creative baking skills!
With these variations, every batch of candy cane cookies can tell its own story, making your holiday baking even more special!
What to Serve with Candy Cane Cookies?
As you bring the festive spirit home with these delightful treats, consider complementing them with heartwarming accompaniments that enhance the season’s magic.
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Rich Hot Cocoa: The creamy chocolate paired with minty cookies creates a heavenly combination. A sprinkle of marshmallows adds extra joy!
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Peppermint Tea: Infused with holiday flavors, this warm beverage harmonizes beautifully, providing a soothing contrast to the cookie’s sweetness.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy ice cream next to warm cookies offers a delightful temperature contrast. The vanilla enhances the overall flavor experience!
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Spiced Eggnog: This traditional holiday drink, with its nutmeg and cinnamon notes, pairs exquisitely with candy cane cookies, creating a nostalgic holiday feel.
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Fruit Salad: A light and fresh mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing break from the sweetness of the cookies, balancing flavors beautifully.
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Gingerbread Men: Both cookies bring a festive charm to the table. The spices in gingerbread beautifully complement the minty freshness of candy cane cookies.
Make this holiday season unforgettable by serving these delightful pairings alongside your candy cane cookies!
Expert Tips for Candy Cane Cookies
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Texture Check: Ensure your dough is not too sticky; if it is, add a bit more flour. A proper dough consistency is key for shaping candy cane cookies.
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Chill for Success: Always chill the dough for at least 30 minutes. This helps the cookies retain their shape and develop a better flavor during baking.
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Even Baking: Bake in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the baking sheet can cause uneven cooking—give each cookie room to spread!
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Decorative Options: Get creative with decorations! Use colored icing or festive sprinkles to enhance the visual appeal of your candy cane cookies.
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Store Wisely: For freshness, store cookies in an airtight container. They can last up to a week at room temperature or be frozen for future celebrations.
Candy Cane Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of butter should I use for candy cane cookies?
Absolutely! For the best results, use unsalted butter in your candy cane cookie recipe. This gives you greater control over the overall sweetness of the cookies, allowing the subtle flavor of peppermint to shine through without being overshadowed.
How long can I store candy cane cookies?
You can keep your candy cane cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you’d like to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks, especially in warmer climates.
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Can I freeze candy cane cookies?
Yes, you can freeze candy cane cookies! To do this, place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw them in the fridge, and they’ll be deliciously ready to serve!
What should I do if my cookie dough is too crumbly?
If your dough feels too crumbly, don’t worry! Simply add a tablespoon of milk or an extra egg yolk to the mixture. Gradually incorporate the liquid until the dough holds together nicely. Remember, kneading the dough gently can also help in achieving that perfect consistency for shaping your candy cane cookies.
Are candy cane cookies safe for pets?
Great question! While the ingredients in these cookies are safe for humans, keep in mind that some components, like chocolate if used in decoration, can be harmful to pets. It’s always best to keep these festive treats away from your furry friends to ensure their safety.
What can I do if the red food coloring bleeds into the dough?
To minimize color bleeding, use gel food coloring instead of liquid. Gel colors maintain their vibrancy and prevent excess moisture that can lead to bleeding. If you notice some bleeding despite this precaution, blot the dough gently with a paper towel before rolling it out to maintain that perfect candy cane look.
Irresistible Candy Cane Cookies to Spark Holiday Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg, vanilla, and peppermint extracts, and mix until well combined.
- Gradually sift in the flour and baking powder, then mix in red gel food coloring until a soft dough forms.
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Divide the dough into two portions; tint one with red gel food coloring.
- Roll both portions into long ropes, then twist them together to form candy cane shapes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 9-11 minutes, until edges are firm and just starting to turn golden.
- Cool cookies on a rack, then dust with powdered sugar or dip in melted white chocolate and sprinkle with crushed candy canes.
