Name: Delicious Candy Cane Cookies: A Festive Peppermint Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Adds richness and moisture; switch to salted if that’s all you have.); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Sweetens the dough and gives it a smooth texture.); 1 Large Egg (Using a room temperature egg ensures better mixing.); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Enhances overall flavor; can substitute with almond extract.); 0.5 tsp Peppermint Extract (Gives the signature minty kick.); 2.5 cups All-Purpose Flour (Swap in a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option.); 0.5 tsp Salt (Omit if butter is salted.); Red Food Coloring (Gel preferred to avoid color bleeding.); Crushed Candy Canes (Adds a delicious crunch and extra festive flair.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the unmistakable scent of peppermint began to fill the air, whisking me back to childhood holidays spent crafting treats with my family. These Holiday Candy Cane Cookies are more than just a festive bake; they encapsulate the warmth and joy of those cozy nights together. Crafted with a buttery vanilla dough and a refreshing peppermint twist, this recipe brings comfort and cheer right to your home. The tender texture and enchanting aesthetics make these cookies not only a delight to eat but also perfect for sharing with loved ones or gifting to friends. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, ensuring you can spend less time baking and more time celebrating. Are you ready to impress your holiday guests with these whimsical treats?

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Why are Candy Cane Cookies a must-bake?

Nostalgic Flavor: Every bite of these Candy Cane Cookies transports you back to joyous holiday memories, invoking the delightful essence of peppermint that defines the season.

Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal fuss, you can whip these up in no time—perfect for those busy holiday moments.

Gifting Perfection: Packaged in decorative mason jars, these cookies look as good as they taste, making them an ideal gift for friends and family.

Beautiful Presentation: The striking red and white swirls not only capture the festive spirit but also elevate your dessert table.

Want more holiday cheer? Pair these treats with our delicious Lemon Sugar Cookies for a delightful spread!

Candy Cane Cookies Ingredients

For the Dough
• Unsalted Butter (1 cup) – Adds richness and moisture; switch to salted butter if that’s all you have, just adjust the added salt accordingly.
• Powdered Sugar (1 cup) – Sweetens the dough and gives it a smooth texture; granulated sugar can work in a pinch but will change the texture slightly.
• Large Egg (1) – Binds everything together and adds moisture; using a room temperature egg ensures better mixing.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Enhances the overall flavor; feel free to substitute with almond extract for a different twist.
• Peppermint Extract (½ tsp) – Gives that signature minty kick which makes these Candy Cane Cookies festive; increase to ¾ tsp for a more intense peppermint flavor if you’re feeling bold.
• All-Purpose Flour (2½ cups) – The foundation of your cookies; swap in a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
• Salt (½ tsp) – Balances out the sweetness; omit if your butter is salted.
• Red Food Coloring (gel preferred) – Colors half the dough to create that classic candy cane look; avoid liquid coloring to prevent color bleeding.

Optional Toppings
• Crushed Candy Canes – Sprinkling these on top before baking adds a delicious crunch and extra festive flair; perfect for those who love texture in their treats!

Get ready to create these delightful treats that not only taste amazing but will also fill your kitchen with holiday cheer!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Holiday Candy Cane Cookies

Step 1: Prep Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking. This simple prep step sets the stage for your delightful Candy Cane Cookies, ensuring they bake evenly and maintain their festive shape.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 cup of powdered sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes. This whipped mixture is crucial as it incorporates air, which will give your Candy Cane Cookies a tender texture.

Step 3: Add Egg and Extracts
Next, add in 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract to the creamed butter and sugar. Mix well until the ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is smooth and creamy. The extracts will infuse your Candy Cane Cookies with that signature peppermint flavor we all adore during the holidays.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
Gradually sift in 2½ cups of all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon of salt, mixing at a low speed just until the flour is incorporated. The dough should be soft but not sticky; if it is too crumbly, add a teaspoon of milk to help bind it. This step creates the perfect base for your Candy Cane Cookies.

Step 5: Divide and Color Dough
Once your dough is ready, divide it in half. Color one half with gel red food coloring, mixing until the color is evenly distributed. This vibrant red hue will give your Candy Cane Cookies their festive twist. Ensure you avoid liquid food coloring to prevent the dough from becoming too wet.

Step 6: Shape Cookies
Take about 1 teaspoon of each colored dough and roll them into 4-inch ropes. Twist one white and one red rope together gently to form the iconic candy cane shape. This whimsical step is where the magic happens, creating the beautiful appearance of your Candy Cane Cookies.

Step 7: Bake Cookies
Place your shaped cookies onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them as they bake, and let them cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Your Candy Cane Cookies are now ready to spread holiday cheer!

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Candy Cane Cookies: Easy Customizations

Feel free to make these Candy Cane Cookies your own by trying out these fun twists and swaps!

Chocolate Candy Canes: Incorporate ¼ cup of cocoa powder into half the dough for a delicious chocolatey flavor. This variation adds a delightful contrast to the classic peppermint!
Crushed Candy Canes Topping: Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top before baking for extra crunch and a festive look. This added texture brings both sweetness and holiday spirit to each bite!
Almond Extract Option: Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for a unique flavor twist. The nutty notes will surprise and delight your taste buds while still maintaining that candy cane essence.
Gluten-Free Version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour so everyone can enjoy these treats. They’ll still come out just as soft and delicious!
Festive Sprinkles: Add colorful sprinkles to the white dough to create a cheerful holiday look. It’s the perfect fun element for kids to help with!
Minty Chocolate Drizzle: After baking, drizzle melted chocolate mixed with a touch of peppermint extract over the cooled cookies. This decadent topping enhances the flavor and elevates the festive presentation.
Miniature Cookies: For bite-sized treats, shape smaller twists from the dough and bake them for fewer minutes. These cute versions are perfect for holiday gatherings and make excellent gifts!

Ready to pair these sweet treats with more delicious delights? Try serving them alongside our festive Lemon Sugar Cookies for a delightful dessert spread this holiday season!

How to Store and Freeze Candy Cane Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your baked Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, ensuring they stay fresh and moist.

Fridge: If you prefer, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks; just be sure they’re well-wrapped to avoid drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can last for up to two months!

Reheating: To enjoy that freshly baked warmth, simply reheat the cookies in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes, bringing back their delightful soft texture.

Make Ahead Options

These Candy Cane Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts who want to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating it. This not only helps the flavors meld but also keeps the dough fresh. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the dough from the refrigerator, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, then shape and bake as instructed. For even longer storage, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 2 months. This way, you can enjoy the delightful peppermint flavor of your Candy Cane Cookies just as fresh as the day you made them!

Helpful Tricks for Candy Cane Cookies

Choose Quality Butter: Use high-quality unsalted butter for a richer flavor and better texture in your Candy Cane Cookies.
Mind the Dough: If your dough is too crumbly, a teaspoon of milk can help bind it. Avoid adding too much liquid; you want it soft, not sticky!
Color with Care: Opt for gel food coloring for vibrant swirls without bleeding. If using liquid, blot excess moisture with a paper towel before shaping.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies! Pull them from the oven when the bottoms are lightly golden for that perfect tender texture.
Make Ahead: Prepare your cookie dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months.

What to Serve with Holiday Candy Cane Cookies?

Bring the festive cheer to your dessert table with delightful accompaniments that enhance every magical bite.

Hot Cocoa: Warm, rich cocoa perfectly balances the minty freshness of candy cane flavors, creating a cozy holiday experience.
Peppermint Bark: This crunchy, chocolatey treat harmonizes beautifully with the cookies’ peppermint essence for a double dose of festive mint.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast that melts in your mouth and adds creaminess to every bite.

A warm cup of cocoa, rich with milk and topped with marshmallows, is the ultimate pairing. Imagine taking a bite of the soft, buttery cookie and following it with a sip of chocolate heaven—sheer bliss!
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of winter fruits like pomegranate, oranges, and apples offers a bright, juicy contrast to the rich cookies, enhancing the festive flavors.
Eggnog: This classic holiday drink complements the sweet cookies perfectly, elevating your seasonal gatherings with creamy, spiced cheer.
Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream can be a luscious addition, creating a sweet dip that envelops the peppermint cookie’s flavors in luxury.
Crushed Gingerbread Cookies: The spicy, warm notes of gingerbread beautifully contrast with the cool peppermint, enhancing your holiday dessert presentation and taste.

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Candy Cane Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of butter should I use for Candy Cane Cookies?
I recommend using unsalted butter for the best flavor and texture. If you only have salted butter, just reduce the added salt in the recipe to accommodate that extra saltiness.

How should I store my Candy Cane Cookies?
Store your baked Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to keep them fresh. If you want to enjoy them longer, refrigerate them for up to two weeks, ensuring they are well-wrapped to avoid drying out.

Can I freeze Candy Cane Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze your baked cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until fully frozen, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last for up to two months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat them, simply reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes to restore their delightful soft texture.

How do I know if my cookie dough is the right consistency?
The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it feels too crumbly, add 1-2 teaspoons of milk or a splash of egg yolk to help bind it. Mix gently until it comes together nicely, allowing it to hold its shape when rolled.

Are Candy Cane Cookies safe for pets?
While these cookies are delightful for humans, it’s important to note that they contain ingredients like butter and sugar, which are not suitable for pets. Always keep your homemade treats away from your furry friends!

Can I make adjustments based on allergies?
Definitely! For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, you can replace egg with a flaxseed or chia seed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken) for egg-free options.