As I stood in my kitchen, a dance of red and white swirls came to life before me, instantly whisking me back to childhood holidays filled with laughter and sweet treats. These Easy Candy Cane Cookies, infused with peppermint and topped off with a dusting of nostalgia, are bound to bring smiles to faces young and old alike. This festive holiday treats recipe not only allows you to whip up a batch in no time, but it’s also adaptable for various dietary needs, making it a crowd-pleaser for every gathering. Ready to fill your home with delightful scents and joyful memories? Let’s dive into this fun and easy recipe that promises to fill your heart and home with warmth!
Why are Candy Cane Cookies a Must-Bake?
Nostalgic Flavor: With every bite, these cookies transport you back to joyful holiday celebrations and mouthwatering memories of your childhood.
Colorful Presentation: The striking red and white swirl design adds a festive flair to any dessert table, making them perfect for holiday gatherings.
Effortless Preparation: This easy recipe requires minimal baking skills, so anyone can join in on the fun.
Dietary Adaptations: Lactose-free? Egg-free? No problem! You can easily customize this recipe to fit various dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy them.
Perfect for Gifting: Cookies make for thoughtful gifts, and these candy cane cookies look as good as they taste, packaged on a pretty platter alongside some Christmas Cookies Butterscotch.
Versatile Delights: Get creative by adding crushed candy canes for extra crunch, or try different colors for adventurous holiday themes!
Candy Cane Cookies Recipe Ingredients
For the Dough
- Butter – Provides richness and tenderness; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free version.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the dough and contributes to the soft texture; use coconut powdered sugar for a natural alternative.
- Egg – Binds the ingredients and adds moisture; substitute with a flax egg for an egg-free version.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; no substitution necessary, but almond extract can be used for a different flavor profile.
- Peppermint Extract – Delivers the signature holiday flavor; omit for vanilla cookies or substitute with other extracts.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; use gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free cookies.
- Salt – Balances sweetness; essential; no substitutes suggested.
- Red Food Coloring – Creates the candy cane color; use gel coloring for more vibrant results.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Candy Cane Cookies Recipe: Easy Festive Holiday Treats
Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a spacious mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 2 cups of powdered sugar using a hand mixer on medium speed. Beat for about 3 minutes, until the mixture is light, fluffy, and has a pale color. This step creates the rich, tender base for your Candy Cane Cookies, setting the stage for deliciousness.
Step 2: Add Egg and Extracts
Next, crack in one egg and pour in 1 teaspoon each of vanilla extract and peppermint extract. Continue beating the mixture until fully combined; don’t worry if it looks slightly curdled. This will enhance the nostalgic flavor in your Candy Cane Cookies Recipe. Set the bowl aside when done, and let’s get mixing the dry ingredients.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 ½ cups of all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed butter mixture, mixing on low speed. Stir until just combined, ensuring not to overwork the dough. The dough should be soft and somewhat sticky, ready for the next candy cane twist!
Step 4: Divide and Color the Dough
Take the dough and divide it in half equally. Leave one half plain, and to the other half, add red food coloring until you achieve your desired vibrant hue. Knead gently to incorporate the color evenly, creating the beautiful swirls your Candy Cane Cookies will showcase. It’s time to wrap them up!
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Wrap both portions of dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step is crucial; it helps firm the dough, making it easier to roll and shape into the classic candy cane forms. During this time, the flavors will also meld together beautifully, enhancing your festive treat.
Step 6: Roll and Shape the Cookies
Once chilled, take a portion of each dough and roll them into thin ropes, about ¼ inch thick and 4 inches long. Twist one white and one red rope together to form the iconic candy cane shape. Aim for uniform thickness, as this will ensure even baking for your delightful Candy Cane Cookies.
Step 7: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you shape the remaining cookies. Prepare baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. As your oven heats, place the shaped cookies on the sheets, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart to allow for slight spreading during baking.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven, and bake for 12-15 minutes. You want the cookies to be set but still soft to the touch—avoid browning for the perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture. As the aroma of peppermint fills your kitchen, you’ll know your Candy Cane Cookies are almost ready!
Step 9: Cool and Store
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container for up to a week. Enjoy the delightful festive cheer your Candy Cane Cookies bring to every nibble!
Helpful Tricks for Candy Cane Cookies
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Chill Time Matters: Ensure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes; warm dough leads to spreading and challenging shapes.
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Gentle Handling: Avoid overworking the dough to prevent tough cookies; handle it gently, especially when incorporating colors.
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Uniform Thickness: Roll the ropes to a consistent thickness for even baking; inconsistent sizes may result in unevenly baked candy cane cookies.
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Watch the Time: Keep a close eye on the baking time; cookies can quickly transition from perfectly baked to overdone.
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Cool Completely: Allow cookies to cool entirely before storing; this helps maintain their soft texture and freshness.
Make Ahead Options
These Candy Cane Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by wrapping and refrigerating it for a convenient ready-to-bake treat. Simply make the dough, divide it, and chill it in the refrigerator, ensuring it’s tightly wrapped in plastic to keep it fresh. If you’re looking to save even more time, you can shape the cookies and freeze them for up to three months. Just place the formed cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to an airtight container. When ready to bake, simply bake from frozen—there’s no need to thaw—resulting in delicious, freshly baked Candy Cane Cookies that feel homemade with minimal effort!
Candy Cane Cookies Recipe Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on your Candy Cane Cookies, adding your personal touch to this festive treat!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with margarine or a plant-based alternative to keep the creaminess without the dairy.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to ensure everyone can partake in the joy of these cookies during the holidays.
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Minty Crunch: Mix in some crushed candy canes into the dough for an additional minty surprise and extra texture.
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Almond Infusion: Swap out the vanilla extract for almond extract, offering a wonderfully nutty twist that surprises the palate.
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Colorful Themes: Use different gel food coloring shades to create a vibrant array of candy canes, perfect for themed festivities.
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Mini Versions: Roll smaller pieces of dough into bite-sized treats for a fun, sharable size that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
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Peppermint Frosting: After baking, drizzle a simple peppermint-infused frosting over the cookies for an extra layer of sweetness.
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Spiced Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spicy flavor that dances beautifully with the peppermint.
Whether you’re experimenting with these variations or savoring the classic recipe, your Candy Cane Cookies will surely bring joy and nostalgia to your holiday season! For a festive touch, consider pairing your cookies with hot cocoa or a plate of Christmas Cookies Butterscotch. Happy baking!
What to Serve with Easy Candy Cane Cookies?
Transform your festive gatherings with delightful pairings that elevate your candy cane cookie experience, creating lasting memories.
- Hot Cocoa: A rich, creamy cup of cocoa complements the peppermint flavor beautifully, warming hearts and hands alike. Perfect for cozy evenings.
- Peppermint Tea: This soothing beverage enhances the minty notes of the cookies, offering a refreshing contrast that brings a soothing balance.
- Mulled Cider: The warm spices in mulled cider harmonize with the festive cookies, making each bite a cozy embrace of flavors.
- Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The vanilla ice cream adds a luscious creaminess that perfectly contrasts the crisp texture of the cookie, creating a delightful treat.
- Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds a burst of color and flavor, providing a light and refreshing contrast to the sweet indulgence of candy cane cookies.
- Chocolate Dipped Fruit: Sweet strawberries or bananas dipped in chocolate pairs beautifully, adding an extra layer of richness and a festive touch to your dessert spread.
- Sugary Coffee: A warm coffee with a sprinkle of sugar or cinnamon enhances the nostalgic flavor, making it a comforting choice that warms the soul.
- Truffle Balls: Rich, chocolate truffle bites offer a luxurious texture that stands up to the cookies’ sweetness, creating a balanced dessert platter.
How to Store and Freeze Candy Cane Cookies
Airtight Container: Store cooled Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their delightful texture and flavor.
Refrigeration: If you prefer a firmer cookie, store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Freezing: To freeze unbaked shaped cookies, layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the bake time.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This versatile storage method allows you to savor the festive joy of these Candy Cane Cookies throughout the season!
Candy Cane Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select fresh ingredients for my Candy Cane Cookies?
Absolutely! Choosing the best ingredients is key to delicious cookies. For the butter, use fresh, unsalted butter for the best taste and texture. When selecting powdered sugar, look for brands with no clumps and a soft texture. Make sure your egg is fresh—check the date on the carton and do the float test if unsure (fresh eggs sink, while old ones float). For peppermint extract, opt for pure extracts over imitation for deeper flavor.
How should I store my Candy Cane Cookies to keep them fresh?
I recommend storing cooled Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They should maintain their delightful texture for up to a week. If the air is particularly humid, storing them in the refrigerator can help prolong freshness for up to two weeks. Just let them warm to room temperature before serving for the best taste!
Can I freeze my Candy Cane Cookies? If so, how?
Yes, you can definitely freeze them! To freeze unbaked shaped cookies, layer them between sheets of parchment paper within an airtight, freezer-safe container. This way, they won’t stick together. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, simply put them directly in the oven from the freezer, adding an extra couple of minutes to the baking time.
What should I do if my Candy Cane Cookies spread during baking?
Very! If your Candy Cane Cookies spread while baking, it likely means the dough wasn’t chilled long enough. Make sure to chill it for at least 30 minutes before rolling and shaping, as this helps solidify the butter and helps maintain shape during baking. Additionally, ensure you’re not overworking the dough, as that can create warmth and lead to spreading.
Are there any dietary considerations for my Candy Cane Cookies?
Of course! If you’re looking to accommodate different dietary needs, you can easily customize this Candy Cane Cookies Recipe. For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with margarine or coconut oil. If someone has an egg allergy, use one flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit for a few minutes) as a substitute. For gluten-free options, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Everyone can enjoy these festive treats together!
Candy Cane Cookies Recipe: Easy Festive Treats to Share
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cream together softened butter and powdered sugar for about 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add egg, vanilla, and peppermint extracts, and mix until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour and salt, then gradually mix into the creamed mixture.
- Divide the dough in half; color one half with red food coloring.
- Chill both portions for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll the dough into thin ropes and twist them to form the candy cane shape.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, until set but still soft.
- Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
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