Name: Candy Cane Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp baking powder; ¼ tsp salt; 1 cup crushed candy canes

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Candy Cane Cookies are like a winter wonderland on a plate, transforming the holiday season into a magical experience with every bite. Imagine crispy edges giving way to soft, chewy centers, all crowned with a delightful crunch of crushed candy canes that bring an exhilarating minty freshness. These cookies not only look festive with their red and white swirls but also fill your kitchen with an aroma that whispers sweet holiday secrets—inviting family and friends to gather around for a taste of pure joy.

Every year, I find myself back in my childhood kitchen, where the air was thick with laughter and the sound of cookie sheets sliding in and out of the oven. My mom would make these Candy Cane Cookies while we danced around the kitchen, wearing Santa hats and singing off-key Christmas carols. The excitement of waiting for those cookies to bake was almost unbearable! The thrill of biting into that first warm cookie filled with minty goodness is a tradition I cherish deeply. Whether it’s Christmas morning or a cozy winter evening, there’s never a bad time for these scrumptious treats!

Why You'll Love This Candy Cane Cookies

These incredible Candy Cane Cookies transform simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Candy Cane Cookies:

All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of your cookies, providing structure and chewiness. Be sure to sift it for the best results.
Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that lovely crisp exterior. Use fine sugar for even mixing.
Unsalted Butter: Softened butter gives these cookies their rich flavor and tender texture. Make sure it’s at room temperature before use!
Eggs: They bind everything together while adding moisture; one large egg is all you need.
Vanilla Extract: For that warm flavor that dances on your taste buds—use pure vanilla extract if you can!
Baking Powder: This leavening agent ensures your cookies rise perfectly without being too dense.
Salt: A pinch enhances all the flavors in your cookies; don’t skip it!
Candy Canes: Crushed into pieces, they provide that signature minty crunch and festive flair.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Candy Cane Cookies:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats; this will prevent any sticky situations later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until combined. Set this aside as we create some buttery magic next!

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about three minutes should do the trick. You want it to look like clouds!

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add in one egg and vanilla extract to your buttery mixture; mix until well-combined. Don’t be afraid to channel your inner rock star here—give it some elbow grease!

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add your dry mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined—it’s okay if you see some streaks of flour; overmixing is not invited to this party.

Step 6: Add Crushed Candy Canes

Fold in those glorious crushed candy canes gently so they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. It’s starting to smell like Christmas already!

Step 7: Scoop & Bake

Scoop tablespoon-sized dollops onto your prepared baking sheets about two inches apart (they spread!). Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden brown but centers remain soft.

Transfer to plates and enjoy these delightful Candy Cane Cookies with loved ones—a perfect treat for sharing (or keeping all to yourself… no judgment here!).

You Must Know About Candy Cane Cookies

This showstopping Candy Cane Cookies delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by creaming the butter and sugar until fluffy, then gradually mix in the dry ingredients. Chill the dough before rolling it into logs, twisting them together, and slicing into cookies. Bake until edges are golden for the best texture.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to swap peppermint extract for vanilla for a minty twist or add chopped nuts for extra crunch. You can also sprinkle crushed candy canes on top before baking for a more festive touch!

Storing & Reheating

Store your Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For extra crispiness, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about five minutes.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Candy Cane Cookies

This professional-quality Candy Cane Cookies relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

The first time I made Candy Cane Cookies was during a holiday party, and my friends couldn’t stop raving about how festive they looked and tasted! It made me realize that small details can create great memories.

FAQs

What are Candy Cane Cookies?

Candy Cane Cookies are delightful holiday treats that combine the flavors of mint and vanilla in a festive way. These cookies are often characterized by their vibrant red and white stripes, resembling traditional candy canes. Made with basic ingredients such as flour, sugar, butter, and peppermint extract, these cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings. They can be decorated with crushed candy canes or drizzled with chocolate for an added touch. Enjoying Candy Cane Cookies is a wonderful way to celebrate the season and share joy with friends and family.

How do you make Candy Cane Cookies?

To make Candy Cane Cookies, start by creaming together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in egg yolks, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract to enhance the flavor. Gradually mix in flour until a dough forms. Divide the dough and tint one half red using food coloring. Roll out both colors into ropes and twist them together before shaping them into candy cane forms. Bake them until lightly golden for perfect holiday treats.

Can I freeze Candy Cane Cookies?

Yes, you can freeze Candy Cane Cookies! To do this, allow them to cool completely after baking. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. You can freeze these cookies for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the oven for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

What variations can I try with Candy Cane Cookies?

There are numerous variations you can try with Candy Cane Cookies! For instance, experiment by adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture. You could also substitute almond extract for a unique flavor twist. Another idea is to dip the cooled cookies in white chocolate before sprinkling crushed candy canes on top for an elegant finish. These creative adaptations will elevate your cookie game during the festive season!

Conclusion

In summary, Candy Cane Cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday celebration. With their charming appearance and refreshing minty flavor, they capture the essence of the season perfectly. Making these cookies is straightforward, allowing everyone to enjoy their deliciousness without hassle. Don’t forget about their versatility—experimenting with different flavors or decorations can make each batch unique! Whether shared at gatherings or gifted to loved ones, Candy Cane Cookies bring joy and sweetness during the holidays.