Name: Delightful Candy Cane Cookies for a Festive Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 large egg (room temperature); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 0.5 teaspoon peppermint extract; 2.5 cups all-purpose flour; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 1 drop red food coloring (gel preferred)

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The sweet aroma of peppermint wafted through the air as I tackled a new holiday baking project—Candy Cane Cookies. These whimsical cookies not only bring festive cheer to any gathering but also offer a delightful break from mundane fast food. With just 30 minutes of your time, you’ll create a delightful batch that’s perfect for sharing or savoring solo. Plus, the colorful twist of red and white makes them visually stunning and ideal for any holiday treat table. It’s fun watching friends and family marvel at the creativity of these simple yet elegant confections. Are you ready to bring a touch of the magic of the season into your kitchen?

Why Are Candy Cane Cookies So Special?

Festive Appeal: These Candy Cane Cookies are the quintessential holiday treat, bringing a cheerful vibe to every gathering.

Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a batch, making it perfect for busy holiday schedules.

Delightful Flavor: The peppermint and vanilla flavors blend seamlessly, offering a nostalgic taste that will transport you straight to winter wonderlands.

Visually Stunning: The vibrant red and white twists make them a showstopper on any dessert table, enticing everyone to grab one (or two!).

Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are an ideal treat for gifting and cookie exchanges, allowing you to spread joy without much fuss.

Get ready to impress your loved ones with flavors inspired by festive cheer and creativity—all while keeping it simple! Don't forget to check out our other holiday favorites for more inspiration!

Candy Cane Cookies Ingredients

A festive treat that brightens your holiday!

For the Dough

Unsalted butter – this gives your cookies that rich, creamy flavor.
Powdered sugar – create a light and tender texture with this sweet touch.
Large egg – use a room temperature egg for a smoother batter.
Vanilla extract – a classic flavor that pairs perfectly with peppermint.
Peppermint extract – essential for that unmistakable Candy Cane Cookies taste.
All-purpose flour – the base of your dough, providing structure.
Salt – a pinch enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.

For Coloring

Red food coloring – gel is preferred for a vibrant, festive hue that doesn’t alter texture.

Get ready to create these charming cookies that will delight both your taste buds and your loved ones!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Candy Cane Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure a smooth release of your cookies later. This step creates a non-stick environment for the delightful Candy Cane Cookies as they bake to perfection.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of powdered sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat them together on medium speed for about 3–4 minutes until the mixture is fluffy and light in color. This aeration is crucial for achieving the tender texture that these cookies are known for.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, crack one large room temperature egg into the mixture along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract. Continue mixing until all ingredients are fully incorporated, and the batter is smooth. You'll notice the delightful aroma of peppermint begins to fill your kitchen, signaling you're on the right track to making delicious Candy Cane Cookies.

Step 4: Blend in Dry Ingredients
Gradually add 2½ cups of all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon of salt to the wet mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to combine the ingredients until a soft dough forms that’s not sticky. This will take just a couple of minutes, and the dough should hold together but remain soft and workable, ready to be shaped into festive forms.

Step 5: Divide and Color the Dough
Once your dough is ready, divide it in half. Take one half and add red food coloring, mixing until you achieve a vibrant red hue. Be sure to use gel coloring for the best results without altering the dough's texture. Now you have the two colors needed to create your beautiful Candy Cane Cookies!

Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Roll 1 teaspoon of each color dough into 4-inch ropes with your hands. Gently twist one red and one white rope together, then shape them into the classic candy cane form. This step is where the creative fun happens, and you can play around with the shapes to your heart’s content!

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the shaped Candy Cane Cookies onto the lined baking sheets, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow for spreading. Bake them in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. As they bake, you will admire their festive colors transforming in the oven.

Step 8: Cool and Serve
After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps them firm up, making them easier to transfer. Once cooled, enjoy your delightful Candy Cane Cookies—perfect for sharing with family and friends or perhaps savoring one (or a few) by yourself!

Candy Cane Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your Candy Cane Cookies and make them uniquely yours!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a cookie that'll please everyone.
Butter Substitution: Use coconut oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free version without sacrificing flavor.
Minty Boost: Add crushed peppermint candies or chocolate chips to the dough for extra crunch and sweetness.
Shape Variation: Roll the dough into balls and flatten them, creating fun, festive cookie shapes instead of the traditional candy canes.
Spiced Up: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to add a warm, cozy flavor that pairs perfectly with peppermint.
Colorful Twists: Use green or blue food coloring instead of red for vibrant, holiday-themed cookie variations.
Peppermint Swirl: Swirl the red and white dough together before shaping to create a beautiful marbled effect.
Adjust Sweetness: For a less sugary cookie, reduce the powdered sugar by ¼ cup and use a touch of maple syrup instead.

Get inspired to explore different options and turn these festive treats into unique delights! If you're looking for more holiday baking ideas, be sure to check out our scrumptious Holiday Sugar Cookies and add a touch of tradition to your festive gatherings!

Make Ahead Options

These Candy Cane Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply complete steps 1 through 4, then wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This keeps the dough fresh and prevents it from drying out. When it’s time to bake, take the dough out, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes, then proceed with steps 5 through 8, shaping and baking them right before serving. You'll have delicious, festive cookies just as delightful as if made on the spot, without the last-minute rush!

Helpful Tricks for Candy Cane Cookies

Perfect Dough Consistency: Ensure your dough is soft but not sticky; adding flour slowly helps achieve the right texture for your Candy Cane Cookies.

Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature egg and butter aids in better mixing and a smoother dough, enhancing the overall flavor.

Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake! Overbaking can lead to dry cookies, so look for lightly golden bottoms.

Food Coloring Tips: Use gel food coloring for vibrant results without affecting the dough's texture. Start with a small amount and adjust until desired shade is reached.

Cooling Time Matters: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for at least 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack; this ensures they set properly.

Share Your Creations: These Candy Cane Cookies make wonderful gifts! Consider decorating with festive sprinkles for an extra special touch when sharing.

What to Serve with Candy Cane Cookies

Baking these delightful cookies creates an aroma that fills your home with warmth and festive cheer, making every bite a joyful experience.

Rich Hot Chocolate: A cup of creamy hot chocolate perfectly complements the peppermint flavors, enhancing that cozy winter feeling. Imagine curling up with a warm drink and a few cookies—pure bliss!
Classic Eggnog: Indulge in this traditional holiday drink, which offers a creamy, spiced contrast to the sweet crispness of the cookies. The nutmeg and vanilla notes in eggnog make each bite of cookie even more delightful.
Peppermint Bark: This sweet treat echoes the peppermint in your Candy Cane Cookies, creating a harmonious flavor experience. Serve them together for a festive platter that’s sure to impress!
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy texture that balances the cookies' sweetness. The cold, velvety ice cream against the warm, soft cookies is a match made in dessert heaven!
Sparkling Cranberry Juice: This refreshing drink offers a tart counterpoint to the sweetness of the cookies while providing a festive sparkle to your meal. It’s a delightful non-alcoholic option for all ages.
Festive Fruit Salad: A bright mix of fresh fruits brings a vibrant, refreshing contrast against the rich flavors of the cookies. Choose seasonal fruits like oranges and pomegranates for a pop of color!

Layer your holiday gathering with these enticing pairings, and watch as everyone savors the magic of the season, one delicious bite at a time!

How to Store and Freeze Candy Cane Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness.

Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week. This keeps them moist and adds a refreshing chill.

Freezer: These cookies freeze beautifully! Wrap each cookie in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating: For a warm treat, reheat the cookies in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes, bringing back their delightful taste and aroma!

Candy Cane Cookies Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting ingredients for Candy Cane Cookies?
Absolutely! Choose unsalted butter that’s softened to room temperature for the best texture. When selecting peppermint extract, look for quality brands to avoid a bitter flavor. If using food coloring, gel is preferred as it delivers a vibrant hue without altering the dough's consistency.

How should I store my Candy Cane Cookies once they’re baked?
Very simply! Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week in the same type of container to maintain moisture. Just remember to keep them sealed!

Can I freeze Candy Cane Cookies, and how do I do it?
Absolutely! These cookies freeze exceptionally well. Wrap each one individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature for a quick and easy treat!

What should I do if my Candy Cane Cookies are too sticky to shape?
Don’t worry! If your dough feels sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour onto your work surface and knead it gently until the dough is manageable. Alternatively, refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes to firm it up, making it easier to roll and shape into cute candy canes.

Are Candy Cane Cookies safe for pets?
No, it's best to avoid sharing these cookies with pets. The ingredients like peppermint extract and sugar are not suitable for dogs or cats and can upset their stomachs. Stick to pet-friendly treats for your furry friends!

Can I modify the recipe for allergies?
Yes, you certainly can! For a gluten-free alternative, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. You can also replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water, mixed and rested for 5 minutes) for a vegan option. Enjoy your baking adventures safely!