Name: Delightful Candy Cane Cookies to Spark Your Holiday Spirit
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 72 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-purpose flour (Can substitute with gluten-free blend if needed.); 1 cup Unsalted butter (Ensure it's softened for easy mixing.); 1 cup Granulated sugar (Sweetens and helps achieve the classic texture.); 1 piece Egg (Binds ingredients and aids in leavening.); 1 teaspoon Peppermint extract (Use pure extract for a more intense taste.); as needed Red and white food coloring (Gel food coloring is preferable.); optional 1/2 cup Crushed candy canes (Adds a crunchy peppermint finish.)

The air is filled with the sweet scent of peppermint, instantly transporting me to the heart of the holiday season. As I roll out my dough for these beloved Candy Cane Cookies, I can’t help but smile at the cheerful twist this festive treat adds to any gathering. Not only are these cookies a delightful way to bring a buttery mint flavor to your dessert table, but they also make for a stunning homemade gift that friends and family will adore. With minimal prep time and an easy-to-follow process, you can transform simple ingredients into these whimsical delights that embody everything we love about holiday baking. Ready to create some joy this season? Let’s dive into crafting these charming Candy Cane Cookies together!

Why Are Candy Cane Cookies So Special?

Festive Charm: These delightful Candy Cane Cookies add a pop of color and cheer to your holiday spread, instantly brightening any occasion.
Irresistible Flavor: With a perfect blend of buttery goodness and refreshing peppermint, each bite is a mini celebration.
Easy to Make: The straightforward preparation means you can whip up a batch without fuss, letting you focus on the festive fun.
Gifting Delight: They make a charming homemade gift, bringing smiles to friends and family alike—just imagine their faces when they receive such a delightful treat!
Versatility: Whether you serve them at a holiday party or alongside a warm drink, they pair beautifully with hot cocoa or coffee, making them a versatile addition to your dessert table. Dive into holiday baking with these joyful candy cane cookies and consider trying other holiday favorites like German Style Cookies for a festive spread!

Candy Cane Cookies Ingredients

• Here’s what you need to bake these festive treats!

For the Dough

All-purpose flour – Provides structure and texture; can substitute with gluten-free blend if needed.
Unsalted butter – Adds richness and flavor; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens and helps achieve the classic texture.
Egg – Binds ingredients and aids in leavening.
Peppermint extract – Infuses cookies with holiday flavor; use pure extract for a more intense taste.

For the Decoration

Red and white food coloring – For the candy cane effect; gel food coloring is preferable to avoid excess liquid.
Powdered sugar – Finishes cookies with a light sweetness when dusted.
Crushed candy canes (optional) – Adds a crunchy peppermint finish, enhancing the festive appeal.

With these Candy Cane Cookies ingredients ready, get excited to create a lovely batch that fills your home with the spirit of the holidays!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Candy Cane Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add in 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract, mixing well until fully combined. Gradually incorporate 2 cups of all-purpose flour, mixing just until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Color the Dough
Divide the prepared dough into two equal halves, placing one portion in a separate bowl. Add several drops of red food coloring to one half and knead until the color is evenly distributed—this will be your festive red portion. Leave the other half plain, as the white dough complements the candy cane design beautifully.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Take small pieces of both the red and white dough and roll them into ropes about 6 inches long. Carefully twist one red rope together with the white rope to form the iconic candy cane shape. Place each formed cookie onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart for even baking.

Step 4: Chill
To help maintain their shape as they bake, place the baking sheet with the shaped cookies in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This chilling step is crucial as it ensures your Candy Cane Cookies hold their lovely designs and don’t spread too much in the oven.

Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the cookies chill. Once chilled, bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until they are lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them; the cookies should look set but still soft in the center.

Step 6: Cool and Decorate
Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. For an optional festive touch, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar or dip them in melted white chocolate, then sprinkle with crushed candy canes for extra holiday cheer.

What to Serve with Candy Cane Cookies

The perfect festive treats deserve equally delightful companions to create a complete holiday experience.

Hot Cocoa: The rich, creamy chocolate wonderfully balances the refreshing peppermint flavor, enhancing the warmth of the season.
Coffee: A cup of rich coffee complements the buttery cookie texture, making each bite feel indulgent and cozy.
Milk: Classic pairing for cookies; the cold, creamy milk enhances the sweet notes and adds nostalgic charm to each bite.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy ice cream takes the cookies to a whole new level, creating an indulgent dessert that everyone loves.
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The fresh fruit adds a burst of color and flavor, balancing the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
Christmas Fruitcake: A slice of this traditional dessert pairs well with the cookies, offering a mix of textures and tastes that celebrate the holidays.
Eggnog: The sweet, spiced drink enhances the festive spirit, making it an ideal pairing for your candy cane creations during holiday gatherings.
Sugar Cookies: For a cookie platter, include these classic favorites to provide a simple yet delightful contrast while keeping the vibe cheerful and sweet.
Peppermint Hot Toddy: A warm, spirited drink with a hint of mint creates a cozy atmosphere, making it a perfect sip next to your festive treats.

How to Store and Freeze Candy Cane Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to keep them fresh and flavorful.

Fridge: If you prefer a softer texture, you can store your Candy Cane Cookies in the fridge for 5-7 days, ensuring they stay moist.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven at 300°F for 5-8 minutes to revive their delightful freshness.

Expert Tips for Candy Cane Cookies

Perfectly Soft Dough: If your dough feels too crumbly, add a teaspoon of milk to help it come together smoothly, ensuring the perfect consistency for Candy Cane Cookies.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix your dough just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies rather than the tender texture we all love.
Chill for Success: Always chill your shaped cookies before baking to maintain their beautiful candy cane shape and prevent spreading in the oven.
Use Quality Extract: Opt for pure peppermint extract instead of imitation for a more vibrant, authentic flavor that elevates your Candy Cane Cookies.
Coloring Tips: Choose gel food coloring over liquid to achieve a vibrant red without adding extra moisture that could affect the dough’s consistency.

Candy Cane Cookies: Fun Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Candy Cane Cookies and add your personal touch to these festive treats!

Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy surprise in every bite. The combination of mint and nuts elevates the flavor profile wonderfully.
Almond Twist: Substitute peppermint extract with almond extract for a unique flavor. This twist will bring a sweet nuttiness that pairs delightfully with the buttery cookie base.
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark or white chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled cookies for an extra touch of indulgence. This adds a rich flavor contrast to the refreshing mint.
Coconut Flakes: Mix in ½ cup of sweetened coconut flakes to the dough for a tropical twist. It infuses a subtle sweet flavor that complements the peppermint beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the dough for a hint of spice that beautifully contrasts the sweetness. Just a little can create a delightful warmth!
Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free treat everyone can enjoy. Be sure to check for a blend with xanthan gum for the best texture!
Rainbow Candy Canes: Use different gel colors to create a rainbow effect, rolling each color into ropes. These colorful variations will brighten your holiday gatherings!
Mint Chocolate Freeze: Once baked, chill the cookies. Serve them with a scoop of mint chocolate chip ice cream for a refreshing dessert that will wow your guests.

By trying any of these variations, you’ll create your own unique spin on the classic Candy Cane Cookies. For further inspiration, consider experimenting with Nutty Apricot Cookies or our delightful Apple Oatmeal Cookies recipe to broaden your holiday baking repertoire!

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Candy Cane Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the first three steps to make and shape the dough, then wrap each formed cookie individually in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This chilling is crucial for maintaining their shape and design. When you’re ready to bake, just preheat your oven and pop them in for 10-12 minutes. If you’re feeling extra festive, consider dusting with powdered sugar or dipping them in melted white chocolate just before serving, ensuring they remain just as delicious as if they were freshly baked. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll save time and still impress your family and friends!

Candy Cane Cookies Recipe FAQs

What kind of peppermint extract should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using pure peppermint extract instead of imitation. The pure extract delivers a vibrant and authentic taste that complements the buttery cookie base beautifully.

How should I store my candy cane cookies?
Store your Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to ensure they remain fresh and delicious. If you’re looking to keep them for a longer duration, place them in the fridge for 5-7 days or freeze them for up to 2 months. Just be sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking!

Can I freeze cookie dough for later baking?
Very! You can freeze the cookie dough before baking for a convenient holiday treat anytime. Simply shape your candy canes, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and freeze until firm. Transfer the frozen shapes to an airtight container or zip-top bag, and they can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just preheat the oven and bake straight from the freezer—no need to thaw!

Why did my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your Candy Cane Cookies spread too much, it’s likely due to the dough not being chilled long enough before baking. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes as suggested in the recipe. Also, check to make sure you’re using the right amount of flour; if the dough is too wet, it can spread. If it’s too crumbly when mixing, a teaspoon of milk can help achieve that perfect dough consistency.

Can my pets eat these cookies?
No, it’s best to keep these cookies away from pets. They contain ingredients like butter and sugar that can be harmful to animals if consumed in large quantities. It’s always wise to stick to treats specifically designed for them!

How can I tell if my cookies are done baking?
It’s pretty simple! Your Candy Cane Cookies should look set and lightly golden around the edges when they are done. The centers may still look a bit soft, but if they hold their shape without collapsing, they are ready to come out of the oven. And remember, they will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet!