There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about Candy Cane Cookies that evokes the spirit of the holidays. The simple blend of peppermint and sweetness makes them a festive treat that’s perfect for any occasion—especially when family and friends gather around. I still remember the joy of baking these with my kids, the vibrant red and white dough twisting into candy cane shapes, filling the house with the delightful scent of peppermint. What truly sets these cookies apart is not just their iconic look, but also the joy they bring when shared. Whether you’re leaving them out for Santa or serving them at a holiday gathering, these cookies add a touch of magic to your festivities.
Why you’ll love this dish
Imagine a cookie that’s not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes! Candy Cane Cookies are unique because they combine festive flair with the classic flavors of winter. Rich, buttery cookie dough infused with peppermint extract is rolled and twisted into playful shapes, making them perfect for holiday baking marathons. This recipe is also quick and budget-friendly, ensuring you can make a delightful batch without breaking the bank. They’re a hit with kids and adults alike, making them an ideal addition to any holiday cookie platter.
"I made these cookies last Christmas and they were a huge hit! The combination of flavors and the festive colors made them stand out. Plus, they were so much fun to make with my kids!" — A happy baker
The cooking process explained
The beauty of Candy Cane Cookies lies in their simplicity. This recipe comes together in just a few steps, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. The delightful process starts with mixing dough and ends with a visually stunning cookie that tastes as good as it looks. You’ll need to prep some basic ingredients and dedicate around 30 minutes of your time, which includes the baking!
What you’ll need
Gather these items to get started:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Red food coloring (optional)
- Crushed candy canes for topping
The butter and sugar create a soft, rich base; the egg adds moisture, while the extracts infuse that delightful peppermint flavor. You can even substitute the peppermint extract with almond extract for a fun twist, but that’s a story for later.
Directions to follow
- 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.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until everything is well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Divide the dough in half. If you want those classic red stripes, color one half with red food coloring.
- Roll out small pieces of both the red and white dough into long strips. Twist the strips together to form the signature candy cane shape.
- Place the formed cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and sprinkle them with crushed candy canes for that festive crunch.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until they are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before serving or packaging them as delightful gifts.
Best ways to enjoy it
Once your Candy Cane Cookies have cooled down, there are numerous ways to serve and enjoy them. For a creative presentation, stack them in a glass jar tied with a holiday ribbon or arrange them on a festive platter alongside other holiday treats. They pair beautifully with a warm cup of cocoa or a glass of milk, making for a delightful snack after a chilly day of holiday shopping.
Keeping leftovers fresh
These cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers to keep the holiday spirit alive. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will stay good for about a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies. Ensure they’re in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking—this will preserve their flavor and texture for up to three months.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few pro tips to elevate your baking game:
- Make sure your butter is truly softened to room temperature to create the perfect creaminess when mixed with sugar.
- Don’t skip the chilling time—allowing the dough to rest for at least 30 minutes can enhance texture and structure.
- For more vibrant colors, use gel food coloring instead of liquid dye; it provides deeper hues without altering the dough’s consistency.
Creative twists
If you want to switch things up, consider adding a festive flair with different flavor extracts like chocolate or almond for a unique spin. You could also dip half of each cookie in chocolate and sprinkle them with crushed candy canes for a richer treat. For health-conscious bakers, using whole wheat flour or substituting applesauce for some of the butter can make for a lighter version.
Common questions
How long do these cookies take to prepare?
Overall, you can expect to invest about 30 minutes in prep and baking.
Can I substitute the peppermint extract?
Yes! Feel free to use almond extract or even vanilla for a different flavor profile.
How should I store any leftover cookies?
Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for three months.
Are these cookies kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The colors and shapes are bound to be a hit with kids, making them a fun baking project for the whole family.
Candy Cane Cookies are more than just a dessert; they are an invitation to indulge in festive fun and create cherished memories in the kitchen. Happy baking!
Print
Candy Cane Cookies
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Festive Candy Cane Cookies with a delightful blend of peppermint and sweetness, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Red food coloring (optional)
- Crushed candy canes for topping
Instructions
- 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.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until everything is well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Divide the dough in half. If you want classic red stripes, color one half with red food coloring.
- Roll out small pieces of both the red and white dough into long strips. Twist the strips together to form the signature candy cane shape.
- Place the formed cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and sprinkle them with crushed candy canes for that festive crunch.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until they are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before serving or packaging them as delightful gifts.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for three months. For a flavor twist, try almond extract instead of peppermint.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American