When the holiday season arrives, the air becomes filled with the sweet aroma of cookies baking in the oven. Among the many festive treats, Candy Cane Cookies stand out with their delightful blend of flavors and charming shape. These cookies not only bring a delightful taste of peppermint but also capture the essence of the holidays with their cheerful red and white design. Whether you’re baking for a gathering or simply indulging yourself, Candy Cane Cookies are sure to put a smile on your face and warmth in your heart.
Why We Love This Candy Cane Cookies Recipe
One of the reasons Candy Cane Cookies hold a special place in our hearts is their captivating visual appeal. The vibrant red and white colors mimic the classic candy cane, making them a perfect addition to any holiday platter. Each cookie is not only a joy to eat but also a sight to behold; they add a splash of color to your festive table.
Beyond their beauty, Candy Cane Cookies are easy to make, requiring simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. The recipe is forgiving, allowing for some creativity in shaping and decorating. You can make them as thick or thin as you prefer, and there’s plenty of room for experimentation with different toppings or flavor variations.
Moreover, these cookies are versatile; while they are especially popular during Christmas, they can be enjoyed year-round, bringing a touch of festivity to any occasion. The combination of buttery sweetness, the warmth of vanilla, and the refreshing hint of peppermint make these cookies irresistible. Let’s dive deeper into how you can create your own batch.
Ingredients about Candy Cane Cookies
To make these delightful Candy Cane Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed candy canes or peppermint
- Red food coloring
Each of these ingredients plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures in your cookies. The butter contributes richness, the powdered sugar adds sweetness, and the extracts enhance the overall flavor profile. The flour provides structure, while the crushed candy canes add that festive crunch and minty kick.
How to Make Candy Cane Cookies Directions
Creating Candy Cane Cookies is an enjoyable experience that can be shared with friends and family. Follow these easy steps to make your own batch:
- Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar. Mix until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, which typically takes about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add the Egg and Extracts: Beat in the egg, followed by the vanilla and almond extracts. The extracts will provide a lovely aroma and flavor to the cookies, setting the stage for what’s to come.
- Incorporate the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture. This is best done in increments to prevent flour from flying everywhere. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to ensure your cookies remain tender.
- Divide and Color the Dough: Once your dough is ready, divide it into two equal halves. Take one half and add red food coloring, mixing thoroughly until you achieve a vibrant red hue.
- Shape Your Cookies: Now comes the fun part! Take small pieces from each colored dough and roll them into thin ropes, about 6 inches long. Twist the red and white ropes together gently to form candy cane shapes. Be creative; you can make them as thick or thin as you like!
- Prepare for Baking: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place your shaped cookies on the sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow for spreading during baking.
- Add Crunch: Before they go into the oven, sprinkle crushed candy canes on top of each cookie. This will not only enhance the flavor but will also add a festive crunch.
- Bake: Transfer your baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for about 9 to 12 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
- Cool Down: Once baked, allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set and ensures they maintain their shape.
Enjoy the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen as your Candy Cane Cookies cool. Each bite will transport you to a world of warmth and festive cheer.
How to Serve Candy Cane Cookies
Serving your Candy Cane Cookies is just as important as making them. Presentation can elevate your treat from simple cookies to a festive centerpiece. Here are some ideas:
- Cookie Platter: Arrange your cookies on a decorative platter along with other holiday treats. The colorful cookies will add a cheerful touch to your table.
- Gift Bags: Wrap a few cookies in clear cellophane bags tied with festive ribbons. This makes a thoughtful gift for friends, family, or colleagues and is a great way to spread holiday cheer.
- Pair with Beverages: Serve your cookies alongside warm beverages like hot cocoa or coffee. The combination of flavors will create a cozy experience that’s perfect for the holidays.
- Decorate with Sprinkles: If you want to take it up a notch, consider adding a drizzle of white chocolate on top of the cookies or using colorful sprinkles for extra flair.
By considering these serving suggestions, you’ll ensure that your Candy Cane Cookies are not just delicious, but also a beautiful addition to your holiday festivities.
Expert Tips: Candy Cane Cookies
As you embark on your Candy Cane Cookies adventure, keep these expert tips in mind for the best results:
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality butter and extracts to enhance the flavor of your cookies. Remember, better ingredients lead to better cookies.
- Chill the Dough: If you find the dough too soft to shape, consider chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle.
- Don’t Skip the Cooling Step: Letting the cookies cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack is essential for maintaining their structure. This step prevents them from breaking.
- Experiment with Flavor: Feel free to customize the extracts. If you love coconut or orange flavors, try adding a few drops along with the vanilla.
- Make Ahead: These cookies freeze remarkably well. You can prepare a large batch and freeze them for later enjoyment. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container.
Following these tips will help you create the most delightful Candy Cane Cookies your friends and family will rave about.
How to Store Candy Cane Cookies
Once your Candy Cane Cookies are baked and cooled, you’ll want to store them properly to keep them fresh. Here’s how:
- Airtight Container: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their softness and freshness for several days.
- Refrigeration: If you live in a warmer climate or want to keep them for an extended period, consider storing them in the refrigerator. Just remember that chilling may slightly alter their texture.
- Freezing: For long-term storage, freeze the cookies. Layer them between sheets of wax paper or parchment in a freezer-safe container. They can last for up to three months. To enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature before serving.
Taking these steps ensures that you can enjoy your Candy Cane Cookies long after baking them.
Variation of Candy Cane Cookies
While the classic Candy Cane Cookies recipe is delightful on its own, you might want to explore some variations to mix it up. Here are a few creative ideas:
- Chocolate Drizzle: Add a rich layer of chocolate by dipping or drizzling melted dark or white chocolate over the cooled cookies.
- Spiced Variation: Incorporate ginger or cinnamon into the dough for a spiced twist on the traditional recipe, giving your cookies an extra layer of flavor.
- Different Shapes: Instead of the classic candy cane shape, consider shaping some cookies into festive stars or snowflakes for a fun twist.
- Add Nuts: Mix in finely chopped nuts for an added crunch. Almonds or walnuts complement the flavor of the cookies beautifully.
- Stuffed Cookies: For a unique take, consider filling the cookie shapes with a peppermint cream before baking for a delicious surprise.
These variations allow you to personalize your Candy Cane Cookies and cater to your preferences or those of your guests, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
FAQ about Candy Cane Cookies
What are Candy Cane Cookies?
Candy Cane Cookies are festive cookies shaped like candy canes, made with a buttery dough flavored with peppermint and often enhanced with almond extract. Their iconic red and white color combination makes them a perfect treat for the holiday season.
How do I make my Candy Cane Cookies taste better?
To elevate the flavor of your Candy Cane Cookies, use high-quality ingredients, including pure vanilla and almond extracts. You can also experiment by adding spices or infusing the dough with chocolate for a delightful twist.
Can I make Candy Cane Cookies in advance?
Yes! These cookies store well. You can bake them ahead of time and keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze them for future enjoyment. Ensure they are completely cooled before storing to avoid moisture buildup.
How long do Candy Cane Cookies last?
When stored correctly in an airtight container at room temperature, Candy Cane Cookies will typically remain fresh for about a week. If frozen, they can last for up to three months.
Can I customize the colors and flavors?
Absolutely! While the classic candy cane colors are red and white, you can use food coloring to create various shades. Additionally, feel free to mix in different extracts or toppings to suit your taste preferences.
Candy Cane Cookies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Use high-quality butter for best flavor.
- 1 cup powdered sugar Adds sweetness to the dough.
- 1 large egg Large egg ensures proper texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon almond extract Provides a unique taste.
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour Provides structure to the cookies.
- 0.5 teaspoon salt Balances sweetness.
- 0.5 teaspoon crushed candy canes or peppermint Gives a festive crunch.
- as needed Red food coloring To achieve the classic candy cane color.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Beat in the egg, followed by the vanilla and almond extracts.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Divide the dough in half. Add red food coloring to one half and mix thoroughly.
- Roll small pieces of each colored dough into thin ropes, about 6 inches long, and twist them together to form candy cane shapes.
- Place shaped cookies on a lined baking sheet, spaced apart.
- Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top of each cookie.
- Bake for about 9 to 12 minutes, or until lightly golden around the edges.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
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