Candy Cane Cookies

There’s something magical about Candy Cane Cookies that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Perfect for holiday parties or cozy family nights, these delightful treats combine buttery vanilla dough with a hint of peppermint. Their festive appearance and sweet aroma make them a must-have during the winter season. Whether you’re gifting them or enjoying them at home, these cookies will surely become a cherished favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up a batch of these cookies.
• Festive Flavor: The combination of vanilla and peppermint creates a unique taste that embodies the holiday spirit.
• Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are ideal for gifting or bringing to parties, spreading joy wherever they go.
• Colorful Presentation: The vibrant red and white stripes not only look appealing but also add a fun touch to your dessert table.
• Customizable: Feel free to get creative with colors or decorate with sprinkles for an extra festive flair.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything organized will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool makes creaming butter and sugar quick and effortless, ensuring a fluffy texture in your cookie dough.
• Parchment paper: Lining your baking sheets with parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 large egg, room temp
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp peppermint extract

For the Dry Ingredients

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt
• Red food coloring, gel preferred

How to Make Candy Cane Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until fluffy, about 3–4 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving light cookies.

Step 3: Add Egg and Extracts

Add the large egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract to the mixture. Blend until smooth, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 4: Mix in Dry Ingredients

Gradually blend in the all-purpose flour and salt into the wet mixture. The dough should be soft but not sticky.

Step 5: Divide and Dye Dough

Split the dough in half. Color one half with red food coloring until you achieve your desired shade.

Step 6: Shape Cookies

Take about 1 teaspoon of each colored dough. Roll them into 4-inch ropes, then twist them together to form a candy cane shape.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Place the shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 8–10 minutes until the bottoms are lightly golden. Allow cooling on the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delightful Candy Cane Cookies! Share them with friends or keep them all to yourself—they’re simply irresistible!

How to Serve Candy Cane Cookies

Candy cane cookies are not only delightful in taste but also festive in appearance. These treats can be served in various ways to enhance their appeal during the holiday season.

As a Festive Dessert Platter

• Arrange candy cane cookies on a colorful platter with other holiday favorites like gingerbread men and sugar cookies for a vibrant display.

Gift-Wrapped Treats

• Package individual cookies in clear bags tied with red and green ribbons for charming holiday gifts that friends and family will love.

Accompanied by Hot Chocolate

• Serve candy cane cookies alongside a warm cup of hot chocolate, adding an extra sprinkle of crushed candy canes on top for a delightful touch.

At Holiday Parties

• Place a tray of candy cane cookies at your next holiday gathering, inviting guests to enjoy these sweet delights as they mingle and celebrate.

With Milk or Plant-Based Alternatives

• Pair these cookies with cold milk or almond milk for a classic combination that enhances the cookie’s sweet flavors.

How to Perfect Candy Cane Cookies

Perfecting candy cane cookies ensures they are both visually appealing and delicious. Here are some tips to achieve cookie perfection.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender and prevent them from becoming tough.

• Chill the dough: If you find the dough too soft, chill it for 30 minutes. This will help retain their shape during baking.

• Check your oven temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures, which is crucial for even cooking.

• Decorate while warm: Add crushed candy canes or powdered sugar immediately after baking while the cookies are still warm for better adhesion.

Best Side Dishes for Candy Cane Cookies

Candy cane cookies work well with various side dishes that complement their festive flavor. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Peppermint Bark
   A crunchy treat made of layered chocolate and peppermint, providing a perfect pairing with candy cane cookies.

2. Sugar Cookies
   Classic sugar cookies, either plain or frosted, are simple yet delightful companions that balance the minty flavor of candy canes.

3. Gingerbread Men
   These spiced cookies add warmth and spice, creating a wonderful contrast to the sweetness of candy cane cookies.

4. Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels
   Salty pretzels dipped in chocolate offer a savory element that complements the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.

5. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides lightness and balance against the rich flavors of the candy cane cookies.

6. Hot Cocoa Bar
   Set up a hot cocoa bar with various toppings like marshmallows, whipped cream, and crushed peppermint for an interactive dessert experience.

7. Nut Mixes
   A selection of spiced or sweetened nuts adds crunch and provides a nice contrast to the soft texture of cookie treats.

8. Marshmallow Treats
   Chewy marshmallow treats can be enjoyed alongside candy cane cookies for added sweetness that kids will especially love.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Candy Cane Cookies, avoiding common pitfalls can ensure your treats turn out perfectly.

• Bold ingredients: Skipping or mismeasuring ingredients can change the texture and flavor. Always double-check your measurements before starting.
• Bold mixing: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a tender result.
• Bold cooling time: Not allowing the cookies to cool on the baking sheet can cause them to break. Let them sit for at least 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
• Bold coloring: Using too much red food coloring can alter the flavor. Start with a small amount and add more gradually until you reach the desired shade.
• Bold preheating: Skipping the preheating step may result in uneven baking. Always preheat your oven to ensure consistent temperature throughout.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Candy Cane Cookies

• Freeze cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Layer with parchment paper for easy separation.

Reheating Candy Cane Cookies

• Bold Oven: Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C) and heat cookies for about 5 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
• Bold Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on high for about 10-15 seconds, but avoid overheating as it may make them tough.
• Bold Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, covered, for a couple of minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Candy Cane Cookies, we’ve got you covered!

How do I make Candy Cane Cookies?

To make Candy Cane Cookies, cream together softened butter and powdered sugar, mix in egg and extracts, then blend in flour and salt before shaping and baking.

Can I customize my Candy Cane Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips or swap peppermint extract for other flavors like vanilla or almond for a unique twist.

What is the best way to store Candy Cane Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.

How long do Candy Cane Cookies last?

Candy Cane Cookies last about one week in the refrigerator and up to three months when frozen if stored properly.

Final Thoughts

Candy Cane Cookies are not only festive but also versatile. You can easily customize these delightful treats with various flavors or decorations. Whether you’re sharing them at holiday gatherings or enjoying them at home, these cookies are sure to bring joy. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and make it your own!