As the holiday season approaches, my kitchen transforms into a whirlwind of colors and tantalizing scents, with each corner hinting at the magic yet to come. One afternoon, caught in a nostalgic mood, the sweet memory of freshly baked Candy Cane Cookies danced through my mind. They evoke childhood moments spent around the table, shaping the timeless candy canes every winter, their peppermint sweetness melting in my mouth.
What I love most about this delightful recipe is its simplicity; in just 30 minutes, you can bring a batch of cheer to your home. The vibrant red stripes against the snowy white of these cookies captivate not only the eyes but also the taste buds with their creamy butter, sugar, and peppermint goodness. Each bite is a festive reminder that homemade treats can be both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, leaving your friends and family asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this deliciously fun recipe that will surely fill your home with warmth and festive spirit!
Why are Candy Cane Cookies a must-bake?
Simplicity: With just a 30-minute commitment, you can whip up a batch of these delightful cookies, making them perfect for busy holiday schedules.
Festive Appeal: Their striking red and white colors are sure to catch everyone’s eye, adding a cheerful touch to your holiday gatherings.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of creamy butter and refreshing peppermint delivers a delightful taste that embodies the spirit of the season.
Fun for Everyone: Perfect for kids and adults alike, shaping these cookies into iconic candy canes is an enjoyable activity for the whole family.
Gift-Worthy: These cookies make charming homemade gifts for friends and neighbors, spreading holiday cheer with every bite.
So while you’re at it, don’t forget to check out my section on holiday baking tips to enhance your cookie-making experience!
Candy Cane Cookies Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make the delightful Candy Cane Cookies!
For the Cookie Batter
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Using room temperature butter helps create a fluffy texture in your cookies.
- 1 cup powdered sugar – Powdered sugar adds a smooth sweetness, perfect for these festive treats.
- 1 large egg (room temp) – Ensure your egg is at room temperature for better mixing and a tender cookie.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – This enhances the overall flavor, giving your cookies a warm, comforting essence.
- ½ tsp peppermint extract – Essential for that classic holiday flavor—don’t skimp on it!
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour – This is the backbone of your cookies, providing structure without making them too dense.
- ½ tsp salt – Salt balances the sweetness, enhancing all the other flavors in the cookies.
- Red food coloring (gel preferred) – Gel food coloring gives vibrant red streaks without altering the cookie’s texture.
Feel free to gather your ingredients and get ready for some cheerful baking!
How to Make Candy Cane Cookies
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures the cookies don’t stick and helps them bake evenly.
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Beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together in a mixing bowl until the mixture is fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This stage is crucial for a light, tender cookie!
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Mix in the large egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until everything is smooth and well combined. The lovely scents will surely boost your holiday spirit!
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Blend the flour and salt into the mixture slowly. Aim for a soft dough that isn’t sticky—this will ensure the perfect cookie texture.
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Divide the dough in half. Take one half and add red food coloring until you achieve your desired vibrant hue. The colors should pop and scream holiday cheer!
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Roll one teaspoon of each colored dough into 4-inch ropes. Twist them together gently and bend them into a candy cane shape. The more playful you are, the more fun the cookies will look!
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Bake for 8-10 minutes until the bottoms are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your home!
Optional: Drizzle with melted white chocolate for an extra festive touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Candy Cane Cookies
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Room Temperature: Store baked Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and chewy.
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Fridge: If you prefer them chilled, keep the cookies in the fridge for up to a week. Just be sure to seal them well to prevent drying out.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
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Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, place them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will bring back their delightful freshness!
Candy Cane Cookies Variations
Get creative and make these delicious treats uniquely yours with a few fun twists!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend to enjoy these cookies without the gluten!
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Chocolate Mint: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a rich, chocolatey twist that perfectly complements the peppermint.
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Add Nuts: Toss in some finely chopped walnuts or almonds for a delightful crunch, enhancing both flavor and texture.
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Peppermint Crunch: Fold in crushed peppermint candies into the dough before shaping to give your cookies a decorative and festive element.
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Orange Zest: Replace peppermint extract with orange extract and add a teaspoon of orange zest for a citrusy twist that brightens the holiday flavors.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper into the dough for an unexpected but thrilling heat that contrasts wonderfully with the sweetness.
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Royal Icing: Top with royal icing after baking for an extra festive touch—make them as colorful and decorative as you like!
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Shortbread Texture: Replace half of the butter with coconut oil for a unique texture that evokes the delightful crunch of shortbread.
Let your imagination run wild and enjoy personalizing these delightful Candy Cane Cookies!
Make Ahead Options
These Candy Cane Cookies are absolutely perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance, storing it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and maintain its flavor. If you prefer, you can also roll the cookie shapes and freeze them for up to 2 months; just remember to place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and bake from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. By prepping ahead, you can enjoy these festive delights without the last-minute rush, making your holiday baking a breeze!
Expert Tips for Candy Cane Cookies
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Always start with room temperature butter and eggs to achieve a light and fluffy cookie dough. This helps the ingredients combine smoothly.
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Perfect Dough Consistency: Ensure your dough is soft but not sticky. If it feels too wet, add a bit more flour until it’s just right for shaping into candy canes.
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Coloring Technique: Use gel food coloring for vibrant red stripes. Liquid coloring can alter the dough’s moisture balance, affecting the cookie texture.
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Twisting with Care: Gently twist your ropes to avoid breaking them. The more consistent your candy cane shapes, the prettier your cookies will be!
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Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; overbaking can lead to a dry cookie. Aim for lightly golden bottoms for a perfect chewy texture.
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Cooling Matters: Allow the cookies to cool on the pan before transferring them. This helps them set properly and prevents breakage. Enjoy baking your Candy Cane Cookies!
What to Serve with Candy Cane Cookies?
Indulging in the spirit of the holidays is even more delightful when you think of Perfect munching partners for your freshly baked cookies.
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Hot Cocoa: A warm, rich cup of cocoa complements the minty freshness, enhancing the cozy holiday vibes.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool texture of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the peppermint flavors, creating a delicious contrast.
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Eggnog: This classic Christmas drink adds a festive cheer that harmonizes wonderfully with the sweetness of the cookies.
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Fruit Platter: Crisp, fresh fruits like apples and pears provide a refreshing balance to the sugary cookies, perfect for a light addition.
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Peppermint Bark: For the ultimate mint lover, serving these cookies alongside indulgent peppermint bark creates a delightful peppermint feast.
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Tea (Mint or Chai): A warm cup of mint tea invigorates the palate, while chai offers spices that enhance the holiday spirit.
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Holiday Punch: A fruity, spiced punch or sparkling cider brings a celebratory flair that perfectly accompanies the cheerful cookies.
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Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These sweet, succulent treats mirror the festive spirit and add an elegant charm to your holiday spread.
Mix and match these pairings to create a joyous holiday treat table that will leave everyone smiling!
Candy Cane Cookies Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select ripe ingredients for my Candy Cane Cookies?
Absolutely! When choosing ingredients, ensure your butter is soft to the touch but still cool, as this will help in achieving that perfect fluffy cookie texture. For the egg, pick one that’s at room temperature (take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you start). As for the extracts, look for pure vanilla and peppermint for the best flavor—often found in the baking aisle.
How should I store my Candy Cane Cookies?
I recommend storing your baked Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them a bit longer, you can refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to a week. Just remember to let them come back to room temperature before serving for the best taste!
Can I freeze my Candy Cane Cookies?
Of course! To freeze them, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply let them thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for about 30 minutes before indulging!
What if my cookie dough is too sticky?
Very! If you find that your dough is sticky when you’re trying to shape it into canes, sprinkle in a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches that ideal soft but manageable consistency. It’s key to avoid adding too much flour at once, as it can make the cookies dense!
Are Candy Cane Cookies safe for pets or those with allergies?
It’s wise to be cautious! Candy Cane Cookies contain ingredients like butter, sugar, and vanilla extract, which are not suitable for pets and could upset their stomachs if consumed. Additionally, anyone with allergies to dairy, gluten, or eggs should avoid these cookies or consider alternatives such as using dairy-free butter or a flaxseed egg substitute for a vegan option. Always make sure to double-check ingredient labels for any hidden allergens.
Irresistible Candy Cane Cookies for Holiday Cheer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together in a mixing bowl until fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until smooth and well combined.
- Blend the flour and salt into the mixture slowly to form a soft dough that isn’t sticky.
- Divide the dough in half. Add red food coloring to one half until desired hue is achieved.
- Roll one teaspoon of each colored dough into 4-inch ropes, twist them together and shape into candy canes.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until the bottoms are lightly golden. Let them cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Optional: Drizzle with melted white chocolate for an extra festive touch.