Candy Cane Cookies

Candy Cane Cookies are one of those delightful treats that encapsulate the spirit of the holiday season. Every bite is a sweet reminder of festive cheer, with the iconic combination of minty candy cane pieces and buttery sweetness bringing a nostalgic vibe. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party, gifting a batch to neighbors, or simply indulging in a personal treat, these cookies are sure to bring joy to every occasion. And let’s be honest, who can resist the festive allure of a cookie that resembles a candy cane?

What makes this recipe special

From their charming appearance to their melt-in-your-mouth texture, Candy Cane Cookies are a seasonal sensation worth trying. They combine simple ingredients that are usually on hand in any home kitchen, making this recipe perfect for last-minute whimsy. Plus, kids absolutely love getting involved when it comes to shaping the cookies and sprinkling on the crushed candy canes. This is a wonderful way to create lasting memories while baking together as a family.

“I made these Candy Cane Cookies for our holiday gathering, and they were a hit! Everyone loved the fresh minty flavor and the adorable candy cane shape.” – Emily R., Home Baker

Preparing Candy Cane Cookies

Making Candy Cane Cookies is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. You’ll start by creaming together the butter and sugar, which creates the cookies’ tender texture. As you mix in the extracts, you’ll be filling your kitchen with a fragrant aroma that hints at the deliciousness to come. After preparing the dough and shaping it into festive candy canes, a quick bake in the oven results in warm, golden edges and a soft center. Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this sweet adventure!

What you’ll need

Gather these items to create your Candy Cane Cookies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp almond extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup crushed candy canes
• Red food coloring (optional)

Feel free to swap the almond extract for additional vanilla if you prefer. You can also leave out the food coloring for a classic look!

Directions to follow

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until the texture is light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the creamed mixture, mixing well.
5. Split the dough in half. If you want that festive red color, add red food coloring to one half and mix until evenly tinted.
6. Roll small pieces from each dough into strands. Twist the red and white strands together to form your candy cane shapes.
7. Place your formed cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden.
9. While the cookies are still warm, generously sprinkle the tops with crushed candy canes.
10. Allow the cookies to cool on wire racks.

How to serve Candy Cane Cookies

These delightful cookies can be enjoyed on their own but why not elevate the experience? Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Serve them on a festive platter as part of a holiday cookie exchange.
• Pair them with a hot cup of cocoa or peppermint tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Use them as adorable gifts in a decorative tin or wrapped in cellophane, tied with a ribbon.

Keeping leftovers fresh

Proper storage can help prolong the life of your Candy Cane Cookies. Make sure to let the cookies cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresh longer, consider freezing them. Place cookies in a freezer-safe container, separated by layers of parchment paper. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just pull a few out and let them thaw at room temperature.

Pro chef tips

• For an extra layer of flavor, try toasting the crushed candy canes before sprinkling them on the cookies. This intensifies the minty taste.
• If you want to get creative, experiment with different colored food colorings to make vibrant cookie shapes for other festive occasions.
• Make sure your butter is softened at room temperature. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect creamy texture when creaming with sugar.

Creative twists

Looking for ways to put your own spin on these Candy Cane Cookies? Here are some ideas:

• Swap out the almond extract for peppermint extract for an even stronger mint flavor.
• Incorporate some white chocolate chips into the dough for a decadent twist.
• Try adding a sprinkle of coarse sea salt after baking for a sweet-and-salty contrast that balances the sweetness.

Common questions

How long do Candy Cane Cookies take to prepare?
The preparation time for Candy Cane Cookies is approximately 20 minutes, and baking takes an additional 8-10 minutes.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While you can substitute margarine, using unsalted butter will yield the best flavor and texture for these cookies.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make Candy Cane Cookies gluten-free, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that other ingredients, like baking powder, are also gluten-free.

By following these guidelines, you’ll not only create mouthwatering Candy Cane Cookies but also find yourself fully immersed in the holiday spirit. Enjoy your culinary journey!

Candy Cane Cookies

Festive Candy Cane Cookies combining minty candy cane pieces with buttery sweetness, perfect for holiday celebrations and gifting.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 24 cookies

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, Holiday

Calories: 120

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Cookie Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Ensure the butter is at room temperature.
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp almond extract Can be substituted with additional vanilla extract.
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1:1 gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute.
• 1 tsp baking powder Check for gluten-free if necessary.
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup crushed candy canes For extra flavor, consider toasting before use.
• 1 dash red food coloring (optional) For festive color.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until the texture is light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the creamed mixture, mixing well.
5. Split the dough in half. If you're adding red food coloring, mix it into one half until evenly tinted.
6. Roll small pieces from each dough into strands and twist them together to form candy cane shapes.
7. Place the formed cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden.
9. While the cookies are still warm, sprinkle the tops generously with crushed candy canes.
10. Allow the cookies to cool on wire racks.

Notes

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Freeze for longer storage with layers of parchment paper between them.