The sweet aroma of baked Candy Cane Cookies is enough to transport you to a winter wonderland filled with holiday cheer. Each bite is a delightful combination of crunchy edges and soft centers, making these cookies a festive treat that warms the heart. festive Christmas cookies. For more inspiration, check out this more delicious recipes recipe.
Imagine gathering around the kitchen with family, laughter filling the air as you decorate these bright red and white striped delights. These cookies are not just desserts; they are memories waiting to be made, perfect for sharing during the most wonderful time of the year. For more inspiration, check out this find more festive cookies recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Candy Cane Cookies are incredibly easy to make, ensuring you can whip them up even in your busiest holiday season
- With their minty flavor and vibrant colors, they add a festive flair to any cookie platter
- The recipe is versatile; feel free to swap flavors or sprinkles based on your preference
- Plus, they make perfect gifts for neighbors and friends, spreading joy one cookie at a time
This holiday season, I once surprised my family with an entire batch of these cookies, only to find them devoured in record time—definitely a sign that they were a hit!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of your cookie dough; sift it for a lighter texture.
-
Baking Powder: Essential for that perfect rise—don’t skip this little magic ingredient!
-
Butter: Use unsalted for better control over the sweetness; let it soften for easy mixing.
-
Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness while brown sugar provides moisture—feel free to play with ratios!
-
Eggs: They bind everything together; ensure they’re at room temperature for best results.
-
Vanilla Extract: A splash brings out all the flavors; use pure vanilla for maximum impact.
-
Peppermint Extract: This is where the magic happens—go light if you’re unsure about peppermint’s intensity.
-
Candy Canes: Crush these festive treats into small pieces to fold into your cookie dough.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure your cookies don’t stick.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder until well combined. This helps evenly distribute the leavening agent throughout your dough.
Cream Butter and Sugars: In another bowl, beat softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes and will create a lovely base for your cookies.
Add Eggs and Extracts: Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla and peppermint extracts. The mixture should look creamy and inviting at this stage.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined—overmixing can lead to tough cookies!
Fold in Candy Canes: Gently fold in crushed candy canes using a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the dough. The colorful flecks will make each cookie pop!
Scoop and Bake: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden but centers remain soft.
Allow cooling on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Enjoy these festive treats warm or store them in an airtight container!
With every bite of these Candy Cane Cookies, you’re not just tasting holiday cheer but also creating joyful moments with loved ones during this special season! eggnog snickerdoodle cookies.
You Must Know
- Candy Cane Cookies are not just festive; they deliver a delightful crunch with peppermint flavor
- Perfect for holiday gatherings, they’re easy to make and look stunning on any dessert table
- The aroma of fresh-baked cookies wafting through your home is simply irresistible
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by creaming the butter and sugar until fluffy, then gradually add in the flour mixture. This ensures even blending and prevents clumps.
Add Your Touch
Consider swapping out some flour for almond flour for a nutty twist. You can also adjust the peppermint extract to suit your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store your Candy Cane Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. vegan cookie options For best flavor, enjoy them fresh! savory options for gatherings.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality peppermint extract for a more intense flavor that enhances these festive treats
- Make sure your butter is softened properly to ensure a light texture
- Allow cookies to cool completely before decorating to prevent melting frosting
The first time I made Candy Cane Cookies, my family devoured them in minutes! Their joy reminded me why I love baking during the holidays.
FAQ
Can I use different extracts for Candy Cane Cookies?
Yes, you can experiment with vanilla or almond extract for unique flavor variations.
How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
Chill your cookie dough before baking to help maintain their shape while baking.
What’s the best way to decorate Candy Cane Cookies?
Use royal icing or melted chocolate and crushed candy canes for festive decoration.
Candy Cane Cookies
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Candy Cane Cookies are a delightful holiday treat that blend the festive flavors of peppermint with a soft, chewy texture. These vibrant red and white striped cookies are perfect for sharing with family and friends during the most wonderful time of the year. Easy to make and beautifully aromatic, they are sure to create lasting memories as you bake together. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or packaged as gifts, these cookies will bring joy to your holiday celebrations!
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
- 1 cup crushed candy canes
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder.
- In another bowl, cream softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until fluffy.
- Beat in eggs, vanilla, and peppermint extracts until combined.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in crushed candy canes gently.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Holiday
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (28g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg