As the holidays approach, I find myself longing for the delightful scents of the season wafting through my kitchen. One particular recipe that never fails to evoke that festive spirit is my Candy Cane Cookies. These little treasures blend the refreshing essence of peppermint with a stunning red and white swirl, instantly elevating any gathering or cozy evening spent at home. Just picture the first bite: a crunchy exterior giving way to a buttery, chewy center, leaving you with a hint of nostalgia and that classic holiday warmth.
With easy-to-follow instructions and a dash of creativity in flavor variations, these cookies are not just a festive treat; they’re a way to spread cheer and joy. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday party, looking for a wholesome treat for the family, or simply indulging yourself, these Candy Cane Cookies are your go-to solution. Grab your mixing bowl and let’s get baking!
Why are Candy Cane Cookies a must-try?
Festive Appeal: These Candy Cane Cookies are as delightful to look at as they are to eat, thanks to their vibrant red and white swirls, making them perfect for any holiday gathering.
Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, you don’t need to be a pro baker to achieve beautifully delicious cookies.
Flavor Variations: The recipe invites creativity, allowing you to swap peppermint for vanilla or add chocolate chips for an unexpected twist!
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at a party or a cozy night in, these cookies will be a hit among family and friends.
Gluten-Free Option: Cater to all dietary preferences by utilizing gluten-free flour blends without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Perfect Gift Idea: Present them in a decorative tin, and you’ve got a thoughtful and delicious holiday gift!
Candy Cane Cookies Ingredients
• Get ready to bake these festive treats!
For the Cookie Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – Essential for cookie structure; feel free to use gluten-free flour blends for a delightful gluten-free version.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough; try using finer sugar for a smoother texture.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Peppermint Extract – The star flavor of these cookies; opt for pure extract for a more authentic taste.
- Baking Powder – A leavening agent that gives the cookies rise and a soft texture.
- Eggs – Binds all the ingredients together; room temperature eggs help with smooth mixing.
- Red Food Coloring (gel) – Essential for achieving that iconic festive color.
For the Topping
- Crushed Candy Canes – Adds delightful crunch and that quintessential peppermint flavor; a perfect finishing touch!
How to Make Candy Cane Cookies
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure the cookies bake evenly and develop that perfect texture.
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes fluffy and light, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
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Mix Wet Ingredients: Add the room temperature egg and peppermint extract, then mix in the red food coloring until you achieve your desired shade of festive red.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder, gradually adding this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until everything is just combined.
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Divide Dough: Split the dough in half; keep one half plain and add red food coloring to the other half until the color is uniform and vibrant.
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Shape Cookies: Roll small pieces of each dough into ropes approximately 6 inches long. Twist a plain and a colored rope together, then shape into candy cane forms.
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Bake: Arrange the cookies on lined baking sheets and pop them into the oven for 10-12 minutes, until they have a slight golden color on the edges.
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Decorate: Allow the cookies to cool completely before sprinkling them with crushed candy canes for an added crunch and festive touch.
Optional: For an extra festive flair, drizzle white chocolate over the cool cookies.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Candy Cane Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with these delightful twists!
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a tasty alternative that everyone can enjoy.
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Flavor Boost: Replace peppermint extract with vanilla or almond extract for a warm, nutty flavor that’s equally festive.
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Chocolate Delight: Add semi-sweet chocolate chips to the dough for a rich and unexpected flavor contrast with the peppermint.
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Crunchy Twist: Incorporate finely chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, into the dough for an extra layer of crunch and nutty richness.
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Spiced Up: Mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the flour for a cozy, spiced flavor that evokes holiday warmth.
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Marshmallow Fluff: Top cooled cookies with a dollop of marshmallow fluff and crushed candy canes for a s’mores-inspired treat.
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Coconut Bliss: Add shredded coconut to the plain dough for a tropical twist that complements the peppermint perfectly.
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Heat It Up: For those who like a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a surprising and delightful spicy finish.
Storage Tips for Candy Cane Cookies
Room Temperature: Store these Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their freshness and delightful texture.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can keep them in the refrigerator for an extended shelf life; they’ll last up to 2 weeks, though the flavors may mellow slightly.
Freezer: To freeze, place cookies in a freezer-safe container, separated by parchment paper, for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying.
Reheating: For that freshly-baked taste, reheat cookies in the microwave for about 10 seconds or until warm, bringing back that soft, chewy goodness!
What to Serve with Candy Cane Cookies?
As you enjoy the sweet indulgence of these festive treats, consider rounding out your holiday spread with delightful pairings that complement their delightful peppermint flavor.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm mug of creamy hot chocolate enhances the peppermint notes and adds a cozy touch to your dessert table. Pairing sweet cookies with a rich drink creates a true winter wonderland experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The smooth, creamy texture of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the cookies’ crunch, making each bite deliciously refreshing and soothing.
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Peppermint Brownies: Heighten the holiday spirit by serving these cookies alongside fudgy peppermint brownies for a perfect chocolate and mint combination that guests will love.
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Spiced Apple Cider: The warm, spiced notes of apple cider beautifully balance the sweetness of the candy cane cookies, making for a comforting holiday drink pairing.
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Nutty Biscotti: Bringing a crunchy Italian touch to the table, nutty biscotti pairs wonderfully with the soft, chewy texture of the cookies, adding a delightful crunch.
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Christmas Fruit Salad: A fresh, vibrant fruit salad tossed with citrus and berries provides a refreshing contrast that brightens up the dessert selection.
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Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: Elegant and indulgent, these sweet bites add a pop of freshness and richness that pairs well with the nostalgic flavors of the cookies.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: A refreshing non-alcoholic beverage option, sparkling water with a splash of lime cleanses the palate while enhancing the festive vibe.
Creating a festive atmosphere is key, and these pairings ensure that your Candy Cane Cookies don’t just shine alone, but become part of an enchanting holiday feast.
Make Ahead Options
These Candy Cane Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the ingredients and divide it into two portions. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness. Alternatively, you can shape the cookies and freeze them for up to 3 days before baking. To finish, take them directly from the freezer to the preheated oven—just add an extra minute or two to the baking time for perfectly festive treats! This way, you’ll have delicious candy cane cookies ready with minimal effort when it’s time to celebrate!
Expert Tips for Candy Cane Cookies
- Room Temperature Butter: Ensure butter is at room temperature for optimal creaming; cold butter leads to dense cookies.
- Chill the Dough: If the dough becomes too soft, chill it for about 30 minutes to maintain shape during baking.
- Watch the Bake Time: Check for doneness by looking for a slight golden color around the edges; overbaking will result in dry cookies.
- Creative Variations: Feel free to swap peppermint for vanilla or almond extract for a unique flavor. Adding chocolate chips can enhance the taste.
- Storage Secrets: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to preserve their freshness; microwave for 10 seconds for a warm treat.
Candy Cane Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of flour should I use for Candy Cane Cookies?
Absolutely! All-purpose flour is the go-to for these cookies as it provides the right structure. However, if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, feel free to substitute it with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it includes xanthan gum or a similar ingredient to mimic the structure of all-purpose flour.
How should I store my Candy Cane Cookies?
To keep your Candy Cane Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can also refrigerate them for up to two weeks, though the flavors may mellow a bit. Just remember to let them warm to room temperature before enjoying!
Can I freeze Candy Cane Cookies?
Yes! To freeze your Candy Cane Cookies, layer them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between the layers to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or microwave them for a few seconds to bring back their delightful softness.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very good question! If your cookies spread too much, it might be due to softened butter or not enough flour. To troubleshoot, I recommend chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before shaping and baking. This helps maintain the structure and ensures your cookies keep their shape while baking.
Are Candy Cane Cookies suitable for pets?
No, it’s best to keep these cookies away from pets. The primary ingredients, particularly sugar and chocolate (if added), can be harmful to them. Always opt for pet-friendly treats if you’re looking to share some holiday cheer with your furry friends!
Festive Candy Cane Cookies with a Twist of Peppermint Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream butter and sugar together until fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Mix in the egg and peppermint extract, then add red food coloring.
- Combine flour and baking powder in a separate bowl, then add to wet ingredients until just mixed.
- Divide the dough in half, leaving one half plain and coloring the other with red food coloring.
- Roll small pieces of each dough into 6-inch ropes and twist them together to form candy canes.
- Bake on lined baking sheets for 10-12 minutes until slightly golden at the edges.
- Cool completely and sprinkle with crushed candy canes.
