Candy Cane Cookies Recipe

Old-fashioned peppermint Candy Cane Cookies are the perfect festive treat for any occasion. This Candy Cane Cookies Recipe combines delightful peppermint flavor with a fun, colorful twist that makes them a standout dessert. Whether it’s for holiday gatherings, cozy family evenings, or gift-giving, these cookies bring joy and cheer to every celebration.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This Candy Cane Cookies Recipe is simple enough for bakers of all skill levels.
• Festive Flavor: The combination of vanilla and peppermint creates a delightful taste that screams holiday spirit.
• Beautiful Presentation: The red and white swirls look stunning on any cookie platter, making them perfect for parties.
• Versatile Treat: These cookies are great for Christmas but can also be enjoyed year-round!
• Perfect for Gifting: Pack these cookies in a decorative box as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into baking these delicious cookies, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or Silpat mat
• Plastic wrap

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool makes it easy to cream butter and sugar to the perfect fluffy consistency.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even baking of your Candy Cane Cookies.
• Parchment paper or Silpat mat: Using these helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

Old-fashioned peppermint Candy Cane Cookies.

For the 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

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine butter and powdered sugar. Mix until fluffy.
2. Add in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Reduce mixer speed. Gradually add in flour and salt, mixing until well combined.

Step 2: Color the Dough

1. Divide the dough into two halves.
2. In the stand mixer, mix one half of the dough with red food coloring. Blend until evenly colored.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

1. Shape each portion into discs and wrap tightly with plastic wrap.
2. Refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight.

Step 4: Preheat Oven

Once the dough has chilled, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 5: Shape Cookies

1. Measure one tablespoon from each color of dough.
2. Roll each piece into 6-inch long log shapes.
3. Twist both logs together gently to create a candy cane shape, then place them on parchment paper or a Silpat-lined baking sheet.

Step 6: Chill Again Before Baking

Chill shaped cookie dough for an additional 15 minutes before baking.

Step 7: Bake

Bake cookies for about 10-12 minutes, watching closely until they turn a very light golden brown on the bottoms.

Step 8: Prepare Glaze

While cookies cool slightly, prepare your peppermint glaze by combining powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and enough milk. Spoon this over your cooled cookies to finish them off delightfully!

How to Serve Candy Cane Cookies Recipe

Candy Cane Cookies are a delightful treat that can brighten up any holiday gathering. Their festive colors and minty flavor make them perfect for sharing with friends and family. Here are some creative ways to serve your Candy Cane Cookies.

With Hot Chocolate

• Pair your cookies with a steaming cup of hot chocolate for a cozy winter treat.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a colorful dessert platter alongside other holiday sweets for an inviting display.

Gift-Wrapped

• Package the cookies in festive boxes or tins as thoughtful gifts for neighbors or friends.

As Party Favors

• Wrap individual cookies in cellophane bags and tie them with ribbons to give as party favors at holiday events.

Alongside Ice Cream

• Serve the cookies with a scoop of vanilla or peppermint ice cream for a delicious dessert combo.

With Coffee or Tea

• Offer your Candy Cane Cookies alongside coffee or tea, enhancing the flavors of both the drink and the dessert.

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How to Perfect Candy Cane Cookies Recipe

To ensure your Candy Cane Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling helps solidify the butter, resulting in thicker cookies that maintain their shape while baking.
• Use Fresh Extracts: For the best flavor, use fresh peppermint and vanilla extracts; they greatly enhance the cookie taste.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your cookies tender; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies during baking; they should be light golden brown on the bottoms for optimal texture.
• Experiment with Toppings: Add extra crushed candy canes or sprinkles before baking for added flavor and color.

Best Side Dishes for Candy Cane Cookies Recipe

Candy Cane Cookies pair well with various side dishes that complement their festive spirit. Here are some excellent options to consider when serving these delightful treats.

1. Peppermint Bark: A classic holiday sweet made from layers of chocolate and crushed peppermint candies.
2. Fruit Salad: A fresh mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies.
3. Cheese Board: Include a variety of cheeses, nuts, and dried fruits that provide savory balance alongside sweet cookies.
4. Spiced Nuts: Warm spiced nuts offer a crunchy texture that pairs well with the softness of candy cane cookies.
5. Eggnog: This creamy holiday beverage complements the minty flavors beautifully, making it a great pairing choice.
6. Chocolate Fondue: Set up a fondue station where guests can dip their cookies into melted chocolate for an indulgent experience.
7. Holiday Punch: A refreshing fruit punch can cleanse the palate and enhance the festive atmosphere at gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Candy Cane Cookies can be fun, but there are a few common mistakes that can ruin your experience. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Skipping room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter is at room temperature before starting. Cold butter won’t blend well and will affect the texture of your cookies.
• Not chilling the dough: Chilling the dough is crucial for shaping and baking. If you skip this step, your cookies may spread too much in the oven.
• Improper measuring of flour: Always spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Packing it down can lead to dry cookies.
• Overbaking the cookies: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be lightly golden on the bottom but still soft to the touch when you take them out.
• Ignoring glaze consistency: When making the peppermint glaze, ensure it’s not too runny or thick. Adjust with milk gradually for perfect coverage.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Candy Cane Cookies Recipe

• Freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for 2-3 hours.
• Transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Candy Cane Cookies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes; cover with a lid to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Candy Cane Cookies Recipe that might help you.

Can I use different extracts in this Candy Cane Cookies Recipe?

Yes! You can substitute peppermint extract with other flavors like almond or vanilla for unique variations.

What if I don’t have red food coloring?

If red food coloring isn’t available, you can use any color or even skip it altogether. The flavor will remain delicious!

How can I customize my Candy Cane Cookies?

Consider adding crushed candy canes on top of the glaze or mixing chocolate chips into the dough for extra sweetness.

How long does it take to make this Candy Cane Cookies Recipe?

The total time is about 90 minutes, including prep and chilling time, plus an additional 10-12 minutes for baking.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight or freeze it for later use.

Final Thoughts

The Candy Cane Cookies Recipe combines festive flavors and delightful textures that will bring joy during any holiday season. These cookies are customizable, so feel free to add your twist! Try making them with family and share the warmth of delicious homemade treats.