Old-fashioned peppermint Candy Cane Cookies are a delightful treat that brings the spirit of the holidays right to your kitchen. With their charming twisted shapes and sweet peppermint flavor, these cookies are perfect for Christmas gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply as a festive snack to enjoy at home. This Candy Cane Cookies Recipe showcases the joy of baking with family, making it a memorable activity while filling your home with irresistible aromas.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
- Festive Appearance: The red and white swirled design makes these cookies visually appealing for any holiday table.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of vanilla and peppermint flavors creates a deliciously unique taste that delights everyone.
- Perfect for Gifting: These cookies make great gifts when packaged in decorative boxes or tins.
- Fun for Kids: Involve your little ones in the twisting and decorating process for a fun family activity.
Tools and Preparation
To successfully create these beautiful Candy Cane Cookies, you’ll need some essential tools. Gathering everything beforehand will make the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Plastic wrap
- Parchment paper or Silpat baking mat
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: This tool makes creaming butter and sugar easy, ensuring a light and fluffy cookie dough.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for consistent results in baking, especially for delicate recipes like cookies.
- Plastic wrap: It helps keep the dough fresh while refrigerating, preventing it from drying out.
Ingredients
Old-fashioned peppermint Candy Cane Cookies.
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For the Cookie 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 until fluffy.
Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
Add one large egg along with pure vanilla and peppermint extracts. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Reduce mixer speed and add flour and salt. Mix until well combined, forming a soft dough.
Step 4: Divide and Color Dough
Divide dough in half. In the stand mixer, combine one half with red food coloring until evenly colored.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Shape each portion into discs, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight.
Step 6: Preheat Oven
Once the dough has chilled, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 7: Shape Cookies
Measure one tablespoon from each color dough. Roll each into log shapes about 6 inches long. Twist them together gently to create a candy cane shape.
Step 8: Transfer to Baking Sheet
Place twisted cookie shapes on parchment paper or a Silpat-lined baking sheet.
Step 9: Chill Before Baking
Chill shaped cookie dough again for about 15 minutes before placing them in the oven.
Step 10: Bake Cookies
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until bottoms are very light golden brown.
Step 11: Prepare Glaze
While cookies bake, mix one cup of powdered sugar with peppermint extract and milk to create a glaze.
Step 12: Glaze Cookies
Spoon glaze over cookies after they have cooled slightly to add an extra touch of sweetness.
Enjoy your Candy Cane Cookies as a festive treat this holiday season!
How to Serve Candy Cane Cookies Recipe
Candy Cane Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make the most of your festive cookies.
With Hot Cocoa
- Pairing these cookies with a warm cup of hot cocoa creates a cozy holiday experience. The peppermint flavor complements the chocolate perfectly.
As Holiday Gifts
- Package Candy Cane Cookies in festive boxes or tins for thoughtful gifts. They make a charming present for friends and family during the holiday season.
On a Cookie Platter
- Arrange the cookies on a colorful platter along with other holiday treats. This makes an eye-catching centerpiece for any gathering.
With Ice Cream
- Serve these cookies alongside a scoop of mint chocolate chip ice cream. The combination is both refreshing and indulgent.
At Cookie Decorating Parties
- Use Candy Cane Cookies as a base for decoration activities. Set out icing, sprinkles, and other toppings for guests to personalize their treats.
How to Perfect Candy Cane Cookies Recipe
To make your Candy Cane Cookies truly exceptional, follow these helpful tips.
- Chill the Dough: Ensuring the dough is chilled helps maintain shape while baking and enhances the flavors.
- Use Quality Extracts: Opting for pure vanilla and peppermint extracts will elevate the taste of your cookies significantly.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined to keep cookies tender and avoid toughness.
- Check Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated correctly to achieve even baking.
- Experiment with Sprinkles: Adding festive sprinkles before baking can enhance the visual appeal of your cookies.
- Store Properly: To keep them fresh, store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
Best Side Dishes for Candy Cane Cookies Recipe
These sweet treats pair well with various side dishes that complement their peppermint flavor. Consider these options to enhance your dessert spread.
- Peppermint Bark: A mix of chocolate and crushed candy canes that echoes the flavor of your cookies.
- Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts seasoned with cinnamon and nutmeg provide a savory contrast to sweet cookies.
- Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds brightness and balances the sweetness of candies.
- Cheese Platter: Include creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese alongside crackers for a delightful contrast.
- Mini Cheesecakes: Bite-sized cheesecakes topped with fruit or chocolate bring an extra layer of indulgence.
- Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip fruits, marshmallows, and even cookie pieces!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking Candy Cane Cookies can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
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Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough is essential for achieving the right texture. It helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
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Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using too much or too little of an ingredient can affect the taste and texture. Always use proper measuring tools for precision.
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Overmixing the dough: Mixing the dough too long can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a tender bite.
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Ignoring oven temperature: An oven that’s too hot can burn the bottoms of your cookies. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
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Not allowing cookies to cool before glazing: If you glaze warm cookies, the icing will melt off. Let them cool on a wire rack first for best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezing Candy Cane Cookies Recipe
- Freeze baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- For best results, freeze without glaze and add it after thawing.
Reheating Candy Cane Cookies Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350 degrees and bake for about 5 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping once.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about this Candy Cane Cookies Recipe that may help you out!
Can I use margarine instead of butter in the Candy Cane Cookies Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter, but keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly. Butter provides a richer taste.
How do I get my Candy Cane Cookies to hold their shape?
Make sure to chill your dough thoroughly before shaping and baking. This will help maintain their form during baking.
How can I customize my Candy Cane Cookies?
Feel free to add chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the dough for extra flavor! You can also experiment with different extracts like almond or orange.
What should I do if my glaze is too thick?
If your peppermint glaze is too thick, simply add more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Candy Cane Cookies Recipe is not only easy to follow but also full of festive flavor that captures the spirit of the holidays. These cookies are perfect for sharing, decorating, or even gifting! Feel free to customize them with your favorite mix-ins or decorations. Try making these delightful treats this holiday season and enjoy their peppermint goodness!
Candy Cane Cookies
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Old-fashioned peppermint Candy Cane Cookies are the perfect festive treat for the holiday season. With their charming red and white swirls and delightful peppermint flavor, these cookies capture the essence of Christmas in every bite. Easy to make and fun for the whole family, this recipe transforms baking into a joyful activity that fills your home with irresistible aromas. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, participating in a cookie exchange, or simply enjoying a sweet snack at home, these Candy Cane Cookies are sure to impress. Gift them in decorative boxes or enjoy them with a warm cup of hot cocoa for an extra cozy touch.
Ingredients
- 2 sticks 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 butter and powdered sugar until fluffy.
- Add egg and both extracts; mix well.
- Gradually add flour and salt until combined, forming a soft dough.
- Divide dough in half; color one half with red food coloring.
- Shape each portion into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least one hour.
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Roll tablespoon-sized pieces of each dough into logs, twist together to form candy cane shapes.
- Chill shaped cookies for 15 minutes on parchment-lined baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden on the bottoms.
- Prepare glaze by mixing powdered sugar with peppermint extract and milk; drizzle over cooled cookies.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (20g)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
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