Name: Delightful Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies for the Holidays
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (Makes the cookies rich and creamy.); 1/2 cup powdered sugar (Adds sweetness while keeping the texture light.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Enhances flavor and aroma.); 2 cups all-purpose flour (Provides the structure needed for perfect cookies.); 1/4 teaspoon salt (Balances the sweetness.); 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (Adds a delightful crunch.); 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional) (Boosts the minty flavor.); 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling) (Creates a sweet crust.)

The scent of butter and sugar drifting from my kitchen brings a rush of warmth, much like a beloved holiday memory. This time, I'm baking Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies, a festive twist on a classic that brings joy to every bite. What I love about this recipe is its quick prep time—perfect for those busy afternoons when you need a sweet escape. Plus, these cookies are so light and airy, they practically melt in your mouth, making them a delightful crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Imagine watching friends and family relish each bite, their faces lighting up as they discover the crunchy candy cane surprise. Ready to make holiday magic happen? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!

Why are these cookies so irresistible?

Simplicity shines through with this easy cookie recipe, requiring just basic baking skills. Festive flavors take center stage as crushed candy canes bring a holiday twist to every bite. Light and airy texture ensures they melt in your mouth, delivering joy with each cookie. Time-saving convenience makes them perfect for those busy days. Crowd-pleasing appeal guarantees smiles at your gatherings, solidifying them as a holiday favorite! For more festive inspirations, check out our holiday cookie collection and tips for perfecting shortbread.

Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies Ingredients

• A delightful mix of ingredients that create magic!

For the Cookie Dough

1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Makes the cookies rich and creamy.
½ cup powdered sugar – Adds sweetness while keeping the texture light.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances flavor and aroma, making every bite special.
2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides the structure needed for perfect cookies.
¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness for deeper flavors.

For the Festive Touch

½ cup crushed candy canes – Adds a delightful crunch and holiday cheer.
¼ teaspoon peppermint extract (optional) – Boosts the minty flavor for true holiday spirit.
¼ cup granulated sugar (for rolling) – Creates a sweet and sparkly coating on each cookie.

These Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies truly bring the festive spirit to life!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare to fill your kitchen with the festive aroma of Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring the perfect surface for baking. Having everything ready allows for a smooth flow as you begin mixing the ingredients together.

Step 2: Beat the Butter
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. The butter should look pale and creamy, inviting you to add the next ingredients. This step creates the rich, smooth base for your cookie dough, setting the tone for those delightful flavors to come.

Step 3: Add the Sugar
Gradually incorporate ½ cup of powdered sugar into the butter mixture, mixing until well combined and fluffy. As you blend, the mixture will become lighter and more voluminous, giving your Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies that melt-in-your-mouth quality. This step takes just a couple of minutes, so keep mixing until it’s nice and airy.

Step 4: Mix in Flavorings
Add in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and ¼ teaspoon of peppermint extract (if using), mixing until fully incorporated. The delightful scents of vanilla and peppermint will fill your kitchen, creating a warm and festive atmosphere. This flavor boost enhances the cookies and complements the crushed candy canes to perfection.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour and ¼ teaspoon of salt until evenly blended. This ensures that every bite of your Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies will have balanced flavors. Take a moment to breathe in the fresh, clean scent of the flour—it's an essential step before integrating the dry with the wet ingredients.

Step 6: Mix Dry with Wet
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the dough to remain tender and light. Once you see the flour disappearing into the dough, you know you're close to deliciousness, and the anticipation is palpable!

Step 7: Fold in Candy Canes
Gently fold in ½ cup of crushed candy canes, taking care to distribute them evenly throughout the dough without over-mixing. Each piece of candy cane should be surrounded by the buttery dough, adding delightful surprises in every bite. This step introduces the holiday flair that makes these cookies irresistible.

Step 8: Shape the Dough
Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough and roll each piece into a ball. The dough should be soft yet firm enough to hold its shape. Place each dough ball on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart, allowing for gentle expansion during baking.

Step 9: Coat with Sugar
Roll each dough ball in granulated sugar to coat them lightly, creating a sweet, sparkly crust. This little touch not only adds extra sweetness but also enhances the visual appeal of your Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies. It’s time to give those little dough balls their festive sparkle!

Step 10: Flatten the Cookies
Gently press each cookie down with the bottom of a glass or your fingertips to flatten them slightly. This step allows for even baking while maintaining that lovely, thick bite that shortbread is known for. As you continue, your baking sheet will transform into a delightful array of cookie shapes.

Step 11: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden. The centers may appear soft, but don’t worry—they’ll firm up as they cool. Keep an eye on them, as the sweet aroma will guide you to the perfect cookie doneness.

Step 12: Cool and Decorate
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, sprinkle additional crushed candy canes on top for decoration. This final touch adds a pop of color and flavor that will make your Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies truly festive!

Helpful Tricks for Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies

Butter Consistency: Ensure your unsalted butter is softened, not melted. This will help achieve that light, whipped texture that makes your cookies melt in your mouth.
Mixing Technique: Avoid overmixing when combining the dry ingredients with the wet. Overmixing can lead to denser cookies instead of the airy ones we desire.
Candy Cane Folding: Gently fold in the crushed candy canes to avoid breaking them down too much. You want those delightful, crunchy bits to shine in every bite of your Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies.
Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Remove them when the edges are lightly golden; they might look soft in the center, but they'll set perfectly as they cool.
Decorative Touch: For that festive flair, sprinkle extra crushed candy canes over the cookies while they cool. It brightens up the presentation and gives an extra touch of holiday cheer!

Make Ahead Options

These Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies are a dream for busy bakers looking to save time during the bustling holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just roll the dough into balls, coat them in sugar, and store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat the oven, flatten the cookies, and they’ll bake to golden perfection in just 10-12 minutes. For even better results, you can freeze the unbaked cookies for up to 3 months. Just bake them straight from the freezer for a freshly baked treat, saving you time and still delivering delicious, melt-in-your-mouth cookies!

How to Store and Freeze Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for snacking whenever the holiday cravings strike!

Fridge: For a longer shelf life, you can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Just remember to let them come back to room temperature for the best taste and texture.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cookies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months, preserving that delightful flavor for future enjoyment!

Reheating: When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw the cookies in the fridge overnight. You can warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to bring back that fresh-baked taste.

Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies: Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these delightful cookies to suit your taste or dietary needs!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to enjoy these cookies without gluten.
Vegan: Use vegan butter in place of unsalted butter and replace powdered sugar with a vegan alternative for a plant-based delight.
Chocolate-Dipped: Dip half of each cooled cookie in melted dark or white chocolate for a decadent twist that adds rich flavor.
Nutty Addition: Mix in ½ cup of finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture and warmth during the holidays. This creates a delightful contrast to the candy canes.
Extra Minty: Increase the peppermint extract to ½ teaspoon for those who crave a stronger mint flavor that packs a punch.
Coconut Flavor: Mix in ½ cup of shredded coconut to the dough for a tropical holiday twist that marries well with peppermint and candy canes.
Cinnamon Spice: Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the dough for a warm and cozy flavor that complements the festive season beautifully.
Hearty Oats: Incorporate ½ cup of quick oats into the dough for a chewy texture that pairs perfectly with the crunch of candy canes; it's a delightful surprise!

Don’t forget to discover more festive creations in our holiday cookie collection and enhance your baking adventures with our tips for perfecting shortbread. Enjoy the process and make these cookies your own!

What to Serve with Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies

These delightful treats are perfect for evoking warm holiday vibes and can be paired beautifully to create a festive spread.

Peppermint Hot Chocolate: A warm, rich drink that brings out the minty notes of the cookies, adding a cozy touch to your gathering.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop alongside the cookies for contrast; the creamy sweetness complements the crunch of the candy canes perfectly.
Holiday Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of citrus and berries adds brightness to your dessert table while balancing the buttery richness of the cookies.
Creamy Eggnog: The spiced creaminess of eggnog makes for a nostalgic pairing, enhancing the festive atmosphere of any holiday gathering.
Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels: The sweet and salty crunch provides a fun texture contrast while echoing the cookie's delightful sweetness.
Gingerbread Cookies: A classic holiday favorite, their spiced flavors harmonize beautifully with the minty brightness of the Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies.
Spiced Almonds: These crunchy, lightly seasoned nuts offer a savory balance, enhancing the sweetness found in your festive treats.
Mulled Wine: The warm spices in mulled wine create a perfect aromatic pairing, elevating the holiday spirit with every sip.
Chocolate Covered Strawberries: Their rich, velvety texture combined with the cookies' minty crunch offers a delightful explosion of flavors that's hard to resist!

Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies Recipe FAQs

How should I choose my candy canes?
Absolutely! When selecting candy canes, look for ones that are vibrant and don't have dark spots all over. This indicates freshness. If you can find artisanal or handmade options, they can sometimes offer a more robust flavor and crunch, enhancing your Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies!

What’s the best way to store these cookies?
Store your Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigeration in an airtight container is perfect for up to 2 weeks. Just allow them to come to room temperature before indulging for the best texture and taste!

Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze your Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Whenever you're ready to enjoy them, just thaw them in the fridge overnight and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to regain that fresh-baked happiness.

What if my cookies turn out too soft after baking?
Very! If your Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies come out too soft, it might be that they weren’t baked long enough. Remember that they will firm up while cooling, so keep an eye on them in the oven. Ensuring your butter is softened but not melted before mixing can also help achieve the desired texture!

Are these cookies safe for pets?
While the ingredients in Candy Cane Whipped Shortbread Cookies are generally safe for humans, they aren’t suitable for pets. Specifically, chocolate or certain sweeteners (like xylitol) in some store-bought candies can be harmful. Always keep these festive treats out of reach of your furry friends!

Can I substitute any of the ingredients for dietary needs?
Absolutely! If you have dietary restrictions, consider using a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to make these cookies gluten-free. If you're looking for a dairy-free version, you can substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter alternative. Always check labels for allergy information to ensure safe enjoyment!