- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Rest Time: 15 minutes for cooling
Festive, Fun, and Full of Holiday Spirit!
Add joy to the season with Candy Cane Cookies. These cookies twist buttery goodness with a hint of peppermint. Shaped like candy canes, they bring holiday cheer. They’re great for cookie trays, gift-giving, or simply sharing with family.
Table of Contents
What to Expect
Making these cookies is simple. The dough is easy to handle. You create two colors of dough: plain and red. Twist each piece into candy cane shapes. They add fun to any holiday baking day.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (226g)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (120g)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (5ml)
- 1 tsp peppermint extract (5ml)
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (300g)
- 1/4 tsp salt (1g)
- Red food coloring (gel-based is best)
Measurements are in both U.S. and metric units.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare to Bake
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment. This keeps cookies from sticking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
Beat butter and powdered sugar until smooth. This gives the cookies their soft texture.
Step 3: Add Egg and Extracts
Mix in the egg, vanilla, and peppermint extract until combined.
Step 4: Add Flour and Salt
Add the flour and salt gradually while mixing to produce a dough. The dough should be soft.
Step 5: Divide and Color Dough
Split dough into two equal parts. Add red food coloring to one half. Knead until color spreads evenly.
Step 6: Shape into Candy Canes
Take 1 tablespoon of each color dough. Roll each into a 4-inch rope. Twist together to form a candy cane shape. Place on baking sheet.
Step 7: Bake and cool the Cookies
Slide the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges turn lightly golden. After removing from the oven, let the cookies rest on the sheet for 5 minutes to settle. Then, carefully move them to a cooling rack to finish.
Freezing Candy Cane Cookies
Freezing Baked Cookies
Let the cookies cool completely. Put them in a single layer on a tray and then place them in the freezer for an hour to solidify. Once frozen, stack them in an airtight container, using parchment to separate each layer. This way, they’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 months.
Freezing Cookie Dough
Shape dough into candy canes as directed. Freeze the shapes on a baking sheet for 1 hour. Transfer to a freezer bag or container. Bake from frozen, adding 1-2 extra minutes.
Tips for Perfect Candy Cane Cookies
Use Gel Food Coloring
Gel food coloring adds color without extra moisture.
Chill Dough if Needed
If the dough becomes soft, chill it for 10-15 minutes.
Adjust Peppermint Flavor
For a milder flavor, use half the peppermint extract.
Why Candy Cane Cookies Shine
Candy Cane Cookies bring festive fun to any holiday table. The shape, peppermint taste, and red and white colors make them a hit. They add a unique twist to holiday baking. Perfect for family time or gift-giving, they’re a seasonal favorite.
Enjoy baking Candy Cane Cookies this season! They’re sure to add joy to any gathering.
Explore Our Cookie Categories
Here are categories of cookies to explore for every craving.
- Tempting Cookies: A range of classic and unique cookies. Perfect for moments when you crave something sweet.
- Healthy Cookies: Nutritious and tasty options. These include gluten-free, low-sugar, and vegan cookies. They let you enjoy without guilt.
- Festive Cookies: Cookies crafted for every season. They’re simple to prepare and full of festive tastes. Perfect for holiday gatherings and special celebrations.
- Baking Tips: Helpful baking techniques and advice. Learn to fix common cookie mistakes and polish your baking skills.
Helpful Resources on Storage and Nutrition
Here are some handy resources for food storage and health tips.
- Food Storage and Freezing Tips: The USDA Food Safety Guide offers detailed tips. Epicurious also has freezing advice to prevent food waste.
- Nutrition Information: MyFitnessPal and CalorieKing offer easy ways to check calorie counts.
- Health and Wellness Guides: Balanced indulgence is key. The Mayo Clinic offers guides on healthy eating. Harvard Health also has balanced nutrition tips.
