Candy Cane Cookies Recipe
Old-fashioned peppermint Candy Cane Cookies are a delightful treat that captures the spirit of the holiday season. This Candy Cane Cookies Recipe is perfect for Christmas gatherings, winter parties, or simply enjoying at home. With their festive colors and refreshing peppermint flavor, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This Candy Cane Cookies Recipe features straightforward steps that even beginner bakers can follow with confidence.
- Festive Flavor: The combination of vanilla and peppermint extracts creates a unique taste that embodies the joy of the holidays.
- Versatile Design: These cookies can be shaped into candy canes or other fun designs, making them perfect for any occasion.
- Perfect for Gifting: Packaged in a decorative box, these cookies make wonderful gifts for loved ones during the holiday season.
- Great for Kids: Involve your children in the baking process; they will love twisting the dough and decorating their own cookies.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Candy Cane Cookies, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand. Using quality equipment will streamline your baking process and ensure consistent results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or Silpat mat
- Plastic wrap
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: This tool saves time and energy by thoroughly mixing your ingredients quickly, resulting in a fluffy dough.
- Baking sheet: A good baking sheet ensures even heat distribution for perfectly baked cookies every time.
- Parchment paper or Silpat mat: These surfaces prevent sticking, making it easier to transfer your cookies after baking.
Ingredients
Old-fashioned peppermint Candy Cane Cookies.
For the Cookies
- 2 sticks of butter (at room temperature)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 teaspoon of red food coloring
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
How to Make Candy Cane Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine butter and powdered sugar. Mix until fluffy.
- Add egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Scrape down sides as necessary to ensure everything is well mixed.
- Reduce mixer speed and gradually add in flour and salt. Mix until combined.
Step 2: Color the Dough
- Divide the dough in half.
- In a separate bowl, mix one half with red food coloring. Blend until color is evenly distributed.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
- Shape both halves into discs and wrap tightly with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight for best results.
Step 4: Preheat Oven & Shape Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Measure one tablespoon from each colored dough. Roll them into 6-inch long logs.
- Twist together both logs gently and place them onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake & Glaze
- Chill shaped cookie dough for an additional 15 minutes before baking.
- Bake cookies for 10-12 minutes or until bottoms are lightly golden brown.
- While cookies bake, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and enough milk. Spoon over cooled cookies once they are slightly warm.
Enjoy your delicious batch of Candy Cane Cookies!
How to Serve Candy Cane Cookies Recipe
Candy Cane Cookies are not only delicious but also visually stunning. They make a great addition to any holiday gathering or can be enjoyed as a festive treat at home. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your Candy Cane Cookies experience.
With Hot Cocoa
- Pair these cookies with a warm cup of rich hot cocoa for a cozy winter treat.
On a Dessert Platter
- Arrange your Candy Cane Cookies on a colorful dessert platter, mixing them with other Christmas cookies for variety.
As Party Favors
- Wrap individual cookies in clear bags and tie them with festive ribbons; they make lovely party favors for guests.
Crumbled Over Ice Cream
- Crumble the cookies over vanilla or peppermint ice cream for an added crunch and flavor boost.
With Tea or Coffee
- Serve your cookies alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee to complement the peppermint flavor.
Gift-Wrapped Treats
- Package the cookies in decorative boxes to give as gifts during the holiday season, sharing the joy of baking with loved ones.
How to Perfect Candy Cane Cookies Recipe
To ensure your Candy Cane Cookies come out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.
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Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough helps prevent spreading while baking, ensuring your cookies hold their shape.
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Measure Flour Accurately: Use a spoon to fluff up the flour, then spoon it into your measuring cup to avoid dense cookies.
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow butter and eggs to reach room temperature for better mixing and texture.
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Don’t Overmix: Combine ingredients just until mixed; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
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Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.
Best Side Dishes for Candy Cane Cookies Recipe
Candy Cane Cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes and beverages. Here are some great options that enhance your holiday spread.
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Eggnog – A classic holiday beverage that brings creamy warmth and spice, perfect alongside sweet treats.
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Cheese Platter – Offer a selection of cheeses such as brie and sharp cheddar that balance the sweetness of the cookies.
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Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can provide a light contrast to the rich flavors of candy cane cookies.
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Pecan Pie – This sweet, nutty pie makes a delightful pairing with minty cookie flavors.
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Holiday Punch – Serve a fruity punch, perhaps with cranberry juice and ginger ale, to add festive flair.
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Chocolate Fondue – Set up a fondue station with melted chocolate where guests can dip fruit or even pieces of cookie for extra indulgence.
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Mini Quiches – These savory bites offer a great contrast in flavors, making them an excellent addition to your cookie spread.
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Roasted Nuts – A bowl of spiced or candied nuts adds crunch and complements the peppermint flavors beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the Candy Cane Cookies Recipe, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:
- Using cold butter: Cold butter won’t cream well with sugar. Always use room temperature butter for a fluffy texture.
- Skipping chilling time: Chilling the dough is essential for shaping. Don’t skip this step; it helps prevent spreading during baking.
- Improper measuring of flour: Too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
- Not using parchment paper: Baking directly on the pan can cause sticking. Parchment paper ensures easy removal and better results.
- Overbaking cookies: Keep an eye on your cookies! They should be light golden brown, not dark or burnt.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- They last up to one week in the fridge.
Freezing Candy Cane Cookies Recipe
- Place cookies in a freezer-safe container.
- They can be frozen for up to three months.
Reheating Candy Cane Cookies Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, warm for about 5-7 minutes until soft.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Candy Cane Cookies Recipe.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can substitute margarine, but the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a direct substitute in this recipe.
What if I don’t have red food coloring?
You can use any food coloring or leave them white for a classic look!
Can I add chocolate chips to the Candy Cane Cookies Recipe?
Absolutely! Chocolate chips add a delightful twist to these festive cookies.
Final Thoughts
These Candy Cane Cookies are not only visually appealing but also deliciously festive. Their peppermint flavor makes them perfect for holiday gatherings. Feel free to customize with different extracts or toppings, making each batch unique and special!
Candy Cane Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the festive spirit with our Candy Cane Cookies Recipe, a delightful treat that combines classic holiday flavors and vivid colors. These easy-to-make cookies are infused with refreshing peppermint and vanilla extracts, making them a perfect addition to Christmas gatherings, winter parties, or cozy nights at home. Their whimsical candy cane shape not only adds visual appeal but also makes them an ideal gift for loved ones. Whether enjoyed alongside hot cocoa or served as party favors, these cookies are sure to bring joy and warmth to your holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
- 2 sticks of butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 teaspoon red food coloring
Instructions
- In a stand mixer, cream together butter and powdered sugar until fluffy. Beat in egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until well combined.
- Gradually mix in flour and salt until dough forms. Divide the dough in half; color one half with red food coloring.
- Chill both halves of the dough for at least one hour.
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Shape into logs by rolling one tablespoon from each colored dough; twist together.
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill for an additional 15 minutes before baking.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool slightly before glazing with a mixture of powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and milk.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (approx. 28g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
