Candy Cane Cookies

Candy Cane Cookies are a delightful holiday treat that brings festive cheer to any occasion. With their vibrant red and white colors, these cookies are not only visually appealing but also bursting with refreshing peppermint flavor. Perfect for Christmas gatherings, cookie exchanges, or as a sweet surprise for friends and family, this recipe is sure to become a holiday favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Appearance: The striking red and white twisted design makes these cookies a beautiful addition to your holiday dessert table.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create these delicious treats without any hassle.
• Peppermint Flavor: The refreshing taste of peppermint adds a unique twist that captures the essence of the season.
• Customizable Toppings: You can personalize your cookies with sprinkles or peppermint crunch for an extra festive touch.
• Perfect for Gifting: Pack them in decorative boxes to share with loved ones, making them an ideal homemade gift.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the Candy Cane Cookies recipe, it’s essential to gather the right tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Baking sheets
• Ruler (optional)

Why These Tools Matter

• Mixer: A good mixer ensures that your butter and sugar are creamed properly, resulting in fluffy cookies.
• Mixing Bowls: Using separate bowls for dry and wet ingredients helps maintain organization while baking.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mats: These prevent sticking and make it easier to transfer cookies from the baking sheet.

Ingredients

This Candy Cane Cookies recipe is a classic Christmas treat! It’s made with a simple cookie dough that’s flavored with peppermint, colored red and white, and twisted into a candy cane shape!

Ingredients:
– 2 3/4 cups (358g) all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp cornstarch
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup (224g) unsalted butter, room temperature
– 1 cup (207g) granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 tsp peppermint extract
– Red gel icing color
– Sprinkles or peppermint crunch, optional

How to Make Candy Cane Cookies

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the following ingredients:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Cornstarch
3. Baking soda
4. Baking powder
5. Salt

Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together:
1. Unsalted butter
2. Granulated sugar

Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light in color and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Egg and Extracts

Add the following ingredients to the creamed mixture:
1. Egg
2. Vanilla extract
3. Peppermint extract

Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Color the Dough

Divide the dough in half. Color one half with red gel icing color until you achieve your desired shade.

Step 6: Chill the Dough

Refrigerate both halves of dough for about 2–3 hours. This makes it easier to handle when shaping.

Step 7: Preheat Oven

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.

Step 8: Shape Cookies

Take small amounts of each dough (about 1 teaspoon) and roll them into 5-inch long ropes. Twist one white rope with one red rope gently together before placing on the baking sheet.

Step 9: Create Candy Cane Shape

Curve part of each twisted rope over to form the iconic candy cane “hook.”

Step 10: Add Toppings

Optionally, press some sprinkles or peppermint crunch onto the fronts of each cookie before baking.

Step 11: Bake Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for about 5–7 minutes until lightly golden around the edges.

Step 12: Cool Down

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Store your Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container for optimal freshness—ideal for enjoying during those cozy holiday nights!

How to Serve Candy Cane Cookies

Candy Cane Cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday gathering. Their festive colors and minty flavor make them perfect treats for sharing with friends and family during the Christmas season.

With Hot Cocoa

• Pair these cookies with a warm cup of hot cocoa for a cozy winter treat. The chocolate complements the peppermint perfectly.

As Part of a Cookie Platter

• Include Candy Cane Cookies on a festive cookie platter alongside other holiday favorites. Their unique shape will add visual appeal to your spread.

Gift-Wrapped Treats

• Wrap individual cookies in cellophane and tie them with a ribbon as thoughtful gifts for neighbors or coworkers. This personal touch makes for a sweet gesture.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two Candy Cane Cookies to create festive ice cream sandwiches. Choose peppermint or vanilla ice cream for an extra holiday twist!

With Milk

• Enjoy these cookies with a glass of cold milk. The classic combination enhances the flavors and provides a comforting snack.

At Holiday Parties

• Serve Candy Cane Cookies at your next holiday party as an easy-to-eat dessert option. They are sure to be a hit with guests of all ages.

How to Perfect Candy Cane Cookies

To ensure your Candy Cane Cookies turn out perfectly, follow these tips that enhance both flavor and presentation.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough makes it easier to shape and helps maintain the cookie’s structure during baking.
• Use Gel Food Coloring: For vibrant red coloring, use gel food coloring instead of liquid, which can alter the dough’s consistency.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender and prevent them from becoming tough.
• Consistent Sizing: Use a teaspoon or small scoop to ensure all cookie balls are uniform in size for even baking.
• Check Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake; they should be lightly golden at the edges but still soft in the center.
• Cool Properly: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet briefly before transferring them to a wire rack to ensure they hold their shape.

Best Side Dishes for Candy Cane Cookies

Candy Cane Cookies pair well with various side dishes that enhance their festive spirit. Here are some delightful options:

1. Peppermint Bark
   A classic holiday treat made from layers of chocolate and crushed peppermint candies, perfect for nibbling alongside your cookies.
2. Fruitcake Bites
   Miniature fruitcakes provide a fruity contrast, adding texture and sweetness that complements the minty cookies.
3. Spiced Nuts
   Roasted spiced nuts offer a savory element, balancing out the sweetness of Candy Cane Cookies beautifully.
4. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses paired with crackers can offer a savory break between sweet treats, enhancing your dessert table.
5. Hot Chocolate Bar
   Set up a hot chocolate bar with toppings like whipped cream, marshmallows, and candy canes for guests to customize their drinks while enjoying cookies.
6. Gingerbread Men
   These spiced cookies create another layer of flavor at your dessert table, making for an exciting variety during celebrations.
7. Christmas Fruit Salad
   A refreshing fruit salad adds brightness and is a healthier option that pairs well with rich desserts like Candy Cane Cookies.
8. Mini Cupcakes
   Festively decorated mini cupcakes provide bite-sized indulgence that complements the candy cane theme wonderfully!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Candy Cane Cookies can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the chilling step: If you skip refrigerating the dough, it will be too soft to shape. Always chill for 2-3 hours for better handling.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Scooping flour directly from the bag can pack it down. Use a spoon to aerate and level off the flour for accuracy.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Each oven is different; always preheat and consider using an oven thermometer for precise baking.
• Neglecting cookie spacing: If cookies are placed too close together, they may merge while baking. Leave enough space on the baking sheet.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 4-5 days when stored properly.

Freezing Candy Cane Cookies

• You can freeze them for about a month.
• Place cookies in a single layer on parchment paper before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.

Reheating Candy Cane Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and warm for 5-8 minutes for best results.
• Microwave: Heat individually on low power for about 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Candy Cane Cookies?

Candy Cane Cookies are festive treats shaped like candy canes, flavored with peppermint, and decorated with red and white colors.

Can I customize my Candy Cane Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor. Sprinkles or peppermint crunch can also enhance their look.

How do I store leftover Candy Cane Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze them for longer-lasting freshness.

How long do these cookies take to make?

The total time is about 3 hours and 40 minutes, including prep and cooling time.

Can I use other flavors in place of peppermint?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with vanilla or almond extracts instead of peppermint for different flavor profiles.

Conclusion

These Candy Cane Cookies are not only visually appealing but also deliciously festive! Their versatility allows you to customize them according to your preferences. Try making these delightful treats this holiday season!

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