Candy Cane Cookies Recipe
Candy Cane Cookies Recipe is a delightful treat that captures the essence of the holiday season. These old-fashioned peppermint cookies are not only visually stunning but also incredibly flavorful, making them perfect for Christmas parties, family gatherings, or even as gifts. With their unique twist design and festive colors, these cookies bring joy to any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive Appeal: The vibrant red and white colors make these cookies an eye-catching addition to any holiday spread.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, this Candy Cane Cookies Recipe is accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of vanilla and peppermint extracts creates a refreshing taste that embodies the spirit of winter.
- Versatile Treat: These cookies can be enjoyed on their own or paired with hot cocoa for a cozy dessert experience.
- Perfect for Gifting: Beautifully packaged, they make an excellent homemade gift for friends and family during the holiday season.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the Candy Cane Cookies Recipe, gather your tools to streamline the process. Proper equipment will ensure each step goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Plastic wrap
- Parchment paper or Silpat baking mat
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: This tool saves time and energy by easily combining ingredients to achieve fluffy cookie dough.
- Parchment paper or Silpat baking mat: Using these prevents cookies from sticking and ensures even baking.
Ingredients
Old-fashioned peppermint Candy Cane Cookies.
For the Cookies
- 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: Mix Butter and Sugar
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine butter and powdered sugar until fluffy.
Step 2: Add Egg and Extracts
Add egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Scrape down 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.
Step 4: Divide Dough
Divide the dough in half for coloring. In one half, mix in red food coloring until you achieve your desired shade.
Step 5: Chill Dough
Shape each half into discs. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight.
Step 6: Preheat Oven
Once dough has chilled, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 7: Shape Dough Logs
Measure one tablespoon of each color dough. Gently roll them into six-inch-long logs.
Step 8: Twist Together
Twist the two logs together to form a candy cane shape. Transfer them to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 9: Chill Shaped Dough
Chill the twisted cookie dough for an additional 15 minutes before baking.
Step 10: Bake Cookies
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until bottoms are a very light golden brown.
Step 11: Prepare Glaze
While cookies are baking, prepare the peppermint glaze by combining powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and milk in a bowl until smooth.
Step 12: Glaze Cookies
Once cookies have cooled slightly, spoon the glaze over them for added sweetness and flavor.
Enjoy your Candy Cane Cookies! These treats are sure to bring cheer during the holiday season!
How to Serve Candy Cane Cookies Recipe
Candy Cane Cookies are a delightful treat, especially during the holiday season. They can be enjoyed in various ways that enhance their festive charm.
With Hot Beverages
- Hot Cocoa: Pair these cookies with a cup of rich hot cocoa for a cozy experience.
- Peppermint Tea: The minty flavor complements the cookies beautifully, offering a refreshing contrast.
- Coffee: Enjoying your Candy Cane Cookies with a warm cup of coffee adds a delightful touch of sweetness.
As Holiday Gifts
- Gift Boxes: Package the cookies in decorative boxes for an easy and thoughtful gift.
- Cookie Jars: Layer them in mason jars for an attractive display that friends and family will love.
- Party Favors: Wrap individual cookies in plastic wrap and tie with ribbons for festive party favors.
At Holiday Gatherings
- Dessert Table: Place them on a dessert table alongside other treats for a colorful display.
- Cookie Exchange: Bring them to cookie exchanges to share your unique twist on holiday favorites.
How to Perfect Candy Cane Cookies Recipe
To ensure your Candy Cane Cookies turn out perfectly, follow these simple tips.
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough helps maintain its shape while baking, resulting in perfectly formed cookies.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature butter and eggs makes it easier to achieve a smooth dough consistency.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined to prevent tough cookies; overmixing can develop gluten.
- Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Remove them when they are lightly golden brown at the bottom to avoid dryness.
- Customize Glaze Flavor: Experiment with different extracts in your glaze, like almond or vanilla, for a unique twist.
- Store Properly: Keep cooled cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and texture for longer.
Best Side Dishes for Candy Cane Cookies Recipe
Candy Cane Cookies can be complemented by several delicious side dishes that enhance your holiday spread. Here are some great options:
- Peppermint Bark: This sweet treat combines layers of chocolate and crushed candy canes, adding crunch and flavor.
- Fruit Platter: A colorful array of seasonal fruits balances out the sweetness of the cookies with freshness.
- Cheese Board: Offer a selection of cheeses that pair well with sweets; consider adding honey or fig spread for extra flavor.
- Nut Mix: A spiced nut mix provides a savory element that contrasts nicely with the sweet cookies.
- Christmas Cake Pops: These fun bite-sized desserts can add cheer alongside your candy cane cookies.
- Hot Apple Cider: A warm drink option that pairs well with the peppermint flavor of the cookies enhances your festive atmosphere.
- Mini Cupcakes: Festively decorated cupcakes can add variety to the dessert table, creating visual appeal and delicious options.
- Chocolate Fondue: Set up a fondue station where guests can dip fruit or cookie pieces into melted chocolate for extra indulgence.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Candy Cane Cookies Recipe can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.
- Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough is essential for the right texture. If you skip this step, cookies may spread too much while baking.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using too much or too little of an ingredient can affect your cookies. Always use precise measurements for the best results.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for soft and tender Candy Cane Cookies.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can burn or undercook your cookies. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.
- Forgetting to line the baking sheet: Not using parchment paper may cause cookies to stick. Always line your baking sheet for easy removal and cleanup.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
- Candy Cane Cookies will last up to one week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Candy Cane Cookies Recipe
- Freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to three months.
Reheating Candy Cane Cookies Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes for a warm treat.
- Microwave: Warm individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds for a quick snack.
- Stovetop: Place them in a skillet on low heat for about 2-3 minutes, covered, to keep them soft.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Candy Cane Cookies Recipe that might help you.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
You can substitute margarine, but it may alter the flavor and texture slightly. Butter gives a richer taste.
How do I customize my Candy Cane Cookies?
You can add chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor. You might also try different extracts like almond or orange.
What is the best way to decorate these cookies?
A simple glaze works well, but you can also use icing and crushed candy canes on top for added decoration.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it or freeze it until you’re ready to bake.
Final Thoughts
The Candy Cane Cookies Recipe offers a wonderful blend of nostalgia and festive cheer. Their peppermint flavor makes them perfect for holiday gatherings, while their customizable nature allows you to add your own twist. Try making these delightful cookies this season, and enjoy sharing them with family and friends!
Candy Cane Cookies
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Candy Cane Cookies are a festive delight that capture the spirit of the holiday season. With their vibrant red and white swirls, these old-fashioned peppermint cookies not only look stunning but also deliver a refreshing burst of flavor. Perfect for Christmas parties, family gatherings, or as thoughtful gifts, they combine the classic taste of vanilla and peppermint in a charming cookie shape. Easy to make and fun to decorate, Candy Cane Cookies are sure to spread joy during the holidays.
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
- For the glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 1/8 teaspoon peppermint extract, 1-2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- In a stand mixer, cream together butter and powdered sugar until fluffy.
- Add egg, vanilla, and peppermint extracts; mix well.
- Gradually add flour and salt; combine thoroughly.
- Divide dough in half; color one half with red food coloring.
- Chill both dough portions for at least one hour.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll tablespoon-sized pieces of each color into logs and twist them together into candy cane shapes.
- Chill shaped cookies for an additional 15 minutes before baking.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden on the bottom.
- 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: Holiday
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
