When the holiday season rolls around, the air fills with excitement and the comforting smell of festive treats. One delightful cookie that captures the spirit of the season is the iconic Candy Cane Cookie. With their beautiful red and white stripes and delightful peppermint flavor, these cookies are not just a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party, gifting to friends, or just indulging your sweet tooth, Candy Cane Cookies bring a touch of magic to any occasion.
Why We Love This Candy Cane Cookie Recipe
Candy Cane Cookies hold a special place in our hearts for several reasons. Firstly, they encapsulate the essence of the holiday season—joyful, comforting, and full of flavor. The visual appeal of these cookies is undeniable. Their striking red and white colors evoke the image of candy canes hung on a Christmas tree, making them not just a delicious dessert but also a beautiful addition to your holiday table.
Secondly, these cookies are incredibly easy to make. The simplicity of the recipe allows both seasoned bakers and novice cooks to come together in the kitchen to create something wonderful. Each step is straightforward, and the ingredients are easy to find, making your baking experience as delightful as the cookies themselves.
Moreover, the engaging process of twisting and shaping the dough brings an element of fun to your baking routine. You can even get creative and experiment with various designs, making each batch unique. Lastly, Candy Cane Cookies pair perfectly with cups of hot cocoa or tea, making them a warm, comforting treat on chilly holiday evenings.
Ingredients for Candy Cane Cookies
Here’s what you’ll need to create your own batch of Candy Cane Cookies:
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Red and green food coloring (for the festive twist)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
How to Make Candy Cane Cookies Directions
Creating Candy Cane Cookies is a delightful experience, and you’ll find the process simple and enjoyable. Let’s break it down step by step.
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly once they hit the tray.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these together until well combined. This dry mixture forms the base for your cookies.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate, larger mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together. Beat them until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This will incorporate air into the mix, which is essential for light, tender cookies.
- Add Egg and Extracts: Once your butter and sugar are fluffy, beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. The peppermint extract is what gives these cookies their signature flavor—don’t skip this step!
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the butter mixture. Mix until everything is well combined, ensuring no dry flour remains. The dough should come together smoothly.
- Divide the Dough: Once you have the dough, divide it in half. Leave one half plain and color the other half with red food coloring. If you want a more vibrant result, you can add more coloring until you achieve your desired shade.
- Shape the Dough: Take a small amount from each colored dough and roll them into long, thin ropes – about 6 inches long. It may help to roll them on a clean, flat surface to get a uniform shape.
- Twist and Shape: Twist the red and white ropes together. Then form them into the classic candy cane shape, bending one end slightly to create the hook.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the shaped cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, allowing enough space between each cookie for expansion during baking.
- Bake: Place your cookies in the preheated oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned. Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary slightly based on your oven.
- Cool and Dust: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. After they have cooled, dust them with powdered sugar for that perfect finishing touch.
Now you have a delightful batch of Candy Cane Cookies ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Candy Cane Cookies
Serving your Candy Cane Cookies can be just as fun as making them. Here are a few ideas to elevate your cookie presentation:
- Cookie Platters: Arrange your Candy Cane Cookies on a beautiful holiday-themed platter. Add elements like pinecones, sprigs of holly, or festive ribbons to enhance the visual appeal.
- Cute Gift Packaging: These cookies make fantastic gifts during the holiday season. Package them in clear bags tied with ribbons or in decorative tins. Personalize them with a holiday tag for a heartfelt touch.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve your cookies with a warm mug of cocoa, a cup of tea, or even milk for the classic cookie experience. These drinks perfectly complement the delicious peppermint flavor.
- Holiday Dessert Table: Include your Candy Cane Cookies as part of a larger holiday dessert table, alongside cakes, cupcakes, and other seasonal treats. Their vibrant colors will make them a standout feature.
By serving your Candy Cane Cookies creatively, you can enhance the festive spirit and make your gatherings even more special!
Expert Tips: Candy Cane Cookies
Creating the perfect Candy Cane Cookies can come down to a few small but crucial tips. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:
- Quality of Ingredients: Using high-quality butter and real extracts can make a noticeable difference in flavor. Aim for unsalted butter to have better control over the sugar and salt balance.
- Softened Butter: Ensure your butter is softened appropriately. You want it to be at room temperature, which allows for better creaming with the sugar.
- Do Not Overmix: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet ones, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, something you definitely want to avoid.
- Customize Shapes: While the classic candy cane shape is delightful, don’t hesitate to experiment! You can create festive shapes like stars or hearts for a unique touch.
- Look for Visual Cues: Baking times may vary, so keep an eye on your cookies. Look for a light golden edge rather than relying solely on time.
By following these expert tips, you can ensure your Candy Cane Cookies are not just delicious but also visually appealing!
How to Store Candy Cane Cookies
Storing your Candy Cane Cookies properly will help them stay fresh for longer. Here are a few simple ways to do that:
- Cooling: Ensure your cookies are completely cool before storing them. Storing warm cookies can lead to moisture buildup and make them soggy.
- Airtight Containers: Place your cooled cookies in an airtight container. This prevents air from making them dry, keeping them fresh and delicious.
- Layering: If you have multiple layers of cookies, place parchment paper between the layers. This will help prevent them from sticking together.
- Freezing: If you want to keep your cookies for an extended period, consider freezing them. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply take out the desired amount and let them thaw at room temperature.
By following these storage recommendations, you can ensure your Candy Cane Cookies remain delightful, soft, and as tasty as the day you baked them!
Variations of Candy Cane Cookies
While traditional Candy Cane Cookies are always a hit, you might want to experiment and try out different variations. Here are some fun ideas to expand your cookie repertoire:
- Chocolate Peppermint Candy Canes: Incorporate cocoa powder into half of your dough to create a chocolate version of these festive cookies. The combination of chocolate and peppermint will surprise and delight those who try them!
- Crushed Candy Canes: For an extra crunch and flavor, add crushed candy canes to the dough or sprinkle them on top of the cookies right before baking. This additional texture is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
- Stuffed Cookies: Get adventurous by stuffing the cookies with chocolate chips or a peppermint patty before shaping them. The melted centers will create a gooey surprise with every bite.
- Glazed Cookies: Mix powdered sugar with milk/or water and drizzle the glaze over your baked cookies for an added sweetness. You can even color the glaze festive shades for visual intrigue.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or a plant-based butter. This variation can broaden your audience, catering to those with dietary restrictions.
These variations not only keep your baking refreshing throughout the holiday season but also allow you to experiment and find your unique spin on the classic Candy Cane Cookie!
FAQ
What are Candy Cane Cookies?
Candy Cane Cookies are festive treats shaped like candy canes, traditionally made with a soft, sweet dough flavored with peppermint and adorned with red and white stripes.
Can I make Candy Cane Cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance, shape it, and freeze it until you’re ready to bake. Alternatively, you can bake the cookies ahead of time and store them in an airtight container.
How can I customize the flavor of my Candy Cane Cookies?
You can adjust the flavor by adding different extracts, such as almond or orange, or even mix in chocolate chips or crushed candy canes for added texture.
What is the best way to decorate Candy Cane Cookies?
Dusting with powdered sugar or drizzling with a glaze can enhance the appearance of your cookies and add a touch of sweetness. You can also use festive sprinkles or edible glitter for a fun look.
How long do Candy Cane Cookies last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, Candy Cane Cookies can last for about a week at room temperature. If frozen, they can maintain their quality for up to three months.
Candy Cane Cookies
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Make sure butter is at room temperature.
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract Essential for the candy cane flavor.
Coloring & Toppings
- 1 drop red food coloring For the festive twist.
- 1 drop green food coloring For the festive twist.
- to taste cups powdered sugar For dusting.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together.
- In a larger bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract to the butter mixture and mix well.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture and mix until well combined.
- Divide the dough in half. Leave one half plain and color the other half with red food coloring.
- Roll out small pieces of each colored dough into 6-inch long ropes.
- Twist the red and white ropes together and shape them into candy cane forms.
- Place the shaped cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Baking
- Bake cookies for about 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before dusting with powdered sugar.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!