Candy Cane Cookies Recipe
Candy Cane Cookies Recipe is a delightful treat that captures the essence of the holiday season. These old-fashioned peppermint cookies are not only visually appealing with their festive colors but also offer a burst of minty flavor in every bite. Perfect for Christmas gatherings, cookie exchanges, or as a sweet gift, this recipe brings warmth and joy to any occasion. Plus, the unique twist of combining red and white dough makes them stand out on any dessert table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive Flavors: The combination of peppermint and vanilla creates a deliciously refreshing taste that’s perfect for the holidays.
- Family-Friendly: Easy to make, this Candy Cane Cookies Recipe is a fun activity for kids and adults alike.
- Impressive Presentation: The twisted red and white design looks stunning, making these cookies perfect for special occasions.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy these cookies as snacks, gifts, or festive additions to your Christmas dessert spread.
- Glazed Goodness: The peppermint glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness, elevating the flavor profile even further.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the Candy Cane Cookies Recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes the baking process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Plastic wrap
- Parchment paper or Silpat baking mat
- Baking sheet
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: This tool saves time by thoroughly mixing ingredients effortlessly for fluffy cookie dough.
- Plastic wrap: It keeps the dough fresh while refrigerating, ensuring optimal texture during baking.
- Baking sheet: A sturdy surface is essential for evenly baking your Candy Cane Cookies.
Ingredients
Old-fashioned peppermint Candy Cane Cookies.
For the Dough
- 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, scraping down sides as needed.
- Reduce mixer speed and add flour and salt. Mix until well combined.
Step 2: Divide and Color the Dough
- Divide the dough in half.
- In the stand mixer bowl, mix one half with red food coloring. Blend until color is uniform.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
- Shape each half of dough into discs.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for one hour or up to overnight.
Step 4: Preheat Oven
- Once the dough has chilled:
1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 5: Shape Cookies
- Measure one tablespoon from each color of dough.
- Roll them into 6-inch long log shapes gently.
- Twist together both logs to form a candy cane shape.
- Transfer shaped cookies to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 6: Chill Again Before Baking
- Chill shaped cookie dough for an additional 15 minutes before baking.
Step 7: Bake Cookies
- Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes.
- Check that the bottoms are lightly golden brown before removing them from oven.
Step 8: Prepare Glaze
- While cookies bake:
1. In a bowl, combine powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and enough milk to achieve desired consistency for glaze.
Step 9: Glaze Cookies
- Once cookies have cooled slightly:
1. Spoon glaze over cookies for added sweetness and shine.
Enjoy your delicious Candy Cane Cookies, perfect for sharing with friends and family!
How to Serve Candy Cane Cookies Recipe
Candy Cane Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your festive cookie experience.
With Hot Chocolate
- Pair these cookies with a warm cup of hot chocolate for a cozy combination. The peppermint flavor complements the rich chocolate perfectly.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Create ice cream sandwiches by placing a scoop of peppermint or vanilla ice cream between two cookies for a refreshing dessert.
Festive Gift Bags
- Package the cookies in cute gift bags for holiday gifts. They make thoughtful and sweet presents for friends and family.
Cookie Platter
- Arrange the Candy Cane Cookies on a colorful platter along with other Christmas cookies to create a beautiful holiday display at your gatherings.
Coffee Companion
- Serve these cookies alongside freshly brewed coffee or espresso, making for a delightful afternoon treat with a festive twist.
Holiday Breakfast Treat
- Enjoy Candy Cane Cookies as part of a holiday breakfast spread, adding something sweet to your morning routine during the festive season.
How to Perfect Candy Cane Cookies Recipe
To make sure your Candy Cane Cookies turn out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Chill the Dough: Ensure your dough is well-chilled before shaping. This helps maintain the cookie’s shape while baking.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Starting with room temperature butter and eggs allows for better mixing and texture.
- Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid packing flour. This ensures you don’t end up with dense cookies.
- Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be lightly golden on the bottom but soft in the center when done.
- Add Extra Peppermint Flavor: For those who love mint, feel free to add an extra drop of peppermint extract in the glaze for more intense flavor.
- Store Properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness for several days.
Best Side Dishes for Candy Cane Cookies Recipe
Candy Cane Cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that can enhance their festive flair. Here are some great options:
- Peppermint Bark: A classic holiday treat made from layers of dark and white chocolate topped with crushed candy canes.
- Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad balances the sweetness of the cookies and adds color to your dessert table.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, especially creamy ones like brie, pairs nicely with the minty flavors in the cookies.
- Nut Mix: A spiced nut mix offers a crunchy contrast to soft cookies, providing different textures within your holiday spread.
- Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider adds a comforting beverage option that complements the candy cane flavor beautifully.
- Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip fruit, marshmallows, or even pieces of cookie for an interactive dessert experience.
- Gingerbread Men: These traditional cookies bring additional spice and flavor variety to your dessert offerings during Christmas celebrations.
- Mini Cupcakes: Festively decorated mini cupcakes can add color and fun alongside your Candy Cane Cookies, perfect for parties!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking Candy Cane Cookies can be a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results.
- Skipping the chilling step: Not refrigerating the dough can make it too soft to shape properly. Always chill your dough for at least an hour.
- Using cold butter: Cold butter won’t cream well with sugar, resulting in dense cookies. Make sure your butter is at room temperature.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can lead to overcooked or undercooked cookies. Always preheat your oven.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Imprecise measurements can ruin texture and taste. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long can make cookies tough. Mix until just combined to keep them tender.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Keep cookies separated with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Freezing Candy Cane Cookies Recipe
- Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
- Layer cookies with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Reheating Candy Cane Cookies Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place in a non-stick pan over low heat for a few minutes until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Candy Cane Cookies Recipe that may help you perfect your baking!
Can I use margarine instead of butter for the Candy Cane Cookies Recipe?
Yes, margarine can work, but it may alter the flavor and texture slightly. Butter provides a richer taste.
How do I know when my Candy Cane Cookies are done?
The bottoms should be a light golden brown, and the tops should look set but not overly browned.
Can I customize my Candy Cane Cookies Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor and texture.
How should I store leftover Candy Cane Cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Final Thoughts
These Candy Cane Cookies are not only festive but also versatile! They bring warmth and joy during the holiday season. Feel free to customize them with your favorite flavors or toppings. Enjoy baking these delightful treats!
Candy Cane Cookies
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Celebrate the festive season with our delightful Candy Cane Cookies! These old-fashioned peppermint cookies are not only visually stunning with their iconic red and white swirl, but they also deliver a refreshing burst of minty flavor in every bite. Perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday gatherings, or as thoughtful gifts, these cookies embody the joy of Christmas. The added peppermint glaze gives them an irresistible sweetness that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether enjoyed alongside hot cocoa or packaged beautifully for gifting, these cookies are sure to spread cheer and warmth during the holidays.
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
- For the Glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 1/8 teaspoon peppermint extract, 1-2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- In a stand mixer, combine butter and powdered sugar until fluffy. Add egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract; mix well.
- Gradually add flour and salt until just combined.
- Divide dough into two halves; tint one half with red food coloring.
- Chill both doughs for at least one hour in plastic wrap.
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Roll one tablespoon of each color into logs and twist together to form a candy cane shape. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Chill shaped cookies for an additional 15 minutes before baking.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden on the bottom.
- While cooling, prepare glaze by mixing powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and milk to desired consistency. Drizzle over cooled cookies.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Holiday
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
