Introduction to Candy Cane Cookie
As the holiday season approaches, I find myself dreaming of festive treats that bring joy to my family. One of my absolute favorites is the Candy Cane Cookie. These delightful cookies are not just a feast for the eyes with their charming red and white swirls, but they also pack a refreshing peppermint punch that makes every bite feel like a celebration. If you’re a busy mom or professional like me, this recipe is a quick solution for those last-minute holiday gatherings. Trust me, your loved ones will be impressed, and you’ll feel like a holiday hero!
Why You’ll Love This Candy Cane Cookie
These Candy Cane Cookies are a holiday dream come true! They’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy days when time is tight. The delightful peppermint flavor dances on your taste buds, while the festive colors brighten any gathering. Plus, they’re a hit with kids and adults alike, ensuring smiles all around. With just a few simple steps, you’ll create a treat that’s both beautiful and delicious!
Ingredients for Candy Cane Cookie
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these festive Candy Cane Cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Unsalted butter: This is the base of your cookie dough, providing richness and flavor. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetness is key! This ingredient helps create that delightful cookie texture we all love.
- Egg: A binding agent that adds moisture and helps the cookies rise, giving them a lovely chewy texture.
- Vanilla extract: This classic flavor enhances the overall taste, making your cookies even more irresistible.
- Peppermint extract: The star of the show! This gives your cookies that signature holiday flavor. Feel free to adjust the amount for a stronger kick.
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of your cookie dough, providing structure and stability.
- Baking powder: This leavening agent helps your cookies rise and become fluffy.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
- Red food coloring: This is what gives your cookies that festive swirl. You can use gel or liquid, depending on your preference.
- Candy cane pieces: These are optional but add a delightful crunch and extra peppermint flavor on top of your cookies.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!
How to Make Candy Cane Cookie
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these delightful Candy Cane Cookies! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of festive treats in no time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your cookies bake evenly. A hot oven helps them rise and develop that perfect golden edge. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process is essential for creating a tender cookie texture. The air you incorporate while creaming helps the cookies rise beautifully. It’s like giving them a little boost!
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, add the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract to the creamed mixture. Mix well until everything is combined. The egg adds moisture and richness, while the extracts infuse your cookies with that delightful flavor. It’s the magic that makes them taste like the holidays!
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately is important. It ensures that the baking powder and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour, which helps your cookies rise uniformly.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a soft dough that holds together but isn’t tough. If it feels too sticky, a sprinkle of flour can help achieve the right consistency.
Step 6: Divide and Color the Dough
Now, divide the dough in half. Leave one half plain and add red food coloring to the other half. Mix until the color is uniform. This is where the fun begins! You’ll create that beautiful red and white swirl that makes these cookies so festive.
Step 7: Shape the Cookies
Take small pieces of each dough and roll them into ropes. Twist the red and white ropes together to form a candy cane shape. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect; each cookie will have its own unique charm. Just think of them as little holiday masterpieces!
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Place the shaped cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them; every oven is different! You want them to be just set but still soft in the center.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect texture. Serve them as is, or sprinkle with candy cane pieces for an extra festive touch. Enjoy the smiles as your family indulges in these delightful treats!
Tips for Success
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming.
- Don’t skip the preheating step; it’s vital for even baking.
- Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant red without altering the dough’s texture.
- For a fun twist, try adding crushed peppermint candies on top before baking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh and chewy.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls: A set of various sizes is handy. You can also use a large pot if needed.
- Electric mixer: This makes creaming butter and sugar easier. A whisk works too, but it’ll take longer.
- Baking sheet: A standard cookie sheet is perfect. If you don’t have one, any flat oven-safe tray will do.
- Parchment paper: This prevents sticking. If you’re out, greasing the baking sheet works as well.
- Wire rack: Ideal for cooling cookies. A plate can substitute in a pinch.
Variations
- Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies: Add cocoa powder to half of the dough for a chocolatey twist. The combination of chocolate and peppermint is simply divine!
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum for the right texture.
- Vegan Candy Cane Cookies: Replace the egg with a flaxseed meal or applesauce. Use vegan butter and ensure your extracts are free from animal products.
- Nutty Delight: Incorporate finely chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, into the dough for added crunch and flavor.
- Spiced Candy Cane Cookies: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor that complements the peppermint beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these Candy Cane Cookies with a warm cup of hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
- Serve alongside a festive fruit platter for a colorful holiday spread.
- For a delightful presentation, stack cookies in a clear jar tied with a ribbon.
- Offer them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert twist.
- Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish that adds a snowy touch!
FAQs about Candy Cane Cookie
As you embark on your Candy Cane Cookie adventure, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries I’ve encountered, along with helpful answers to guide you through the process.
Can I make Candy Cane Cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to three days. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before shaping and baking. This is a great time-saver during the busy holiday season!
How do I store leftover Candy Cane Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just layer them with parchment paper and seal in a freezer bag.
Can I use other extracts instead of peppermint?
Yes! While peppermint is traditional, you can experiment with other flavors like almond or vanilla for a unique twist. Just remember to adjust the quantity to suit your taste preferences.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels sticky, don’t panic! Simply sprinkle a little extra flour while mixing or when rolling out the dough. This will help you achieve the right consistency without compromising the cookie’s texture.
Can I decorate my Candy Cane Cookies?
Definitely! These cookies are perfect for decorating. You can use icing, sprinkles, or even drizzle melted chocolate on top. Get creative and make them your own!
Final Thoughts
Making Candy Cane Cookies is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories with loved ones. The joy of rolling the dough, twisting it into festive shapes, and watching them bake to perfection fills my heart with warmth. These cookies are a delightful way to celebrate the holiday spirit, bringing smiles to faces young and old. Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or enjoying them with a cozy cup of tea, each bite is a reminder of the magic of the season. So, roll up your sleeves and let the holiday cheer fill your kitchen!
Print
Candy Cane Cookie: Discover the Secret Recipe Today!
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful holiday treat, Candy Cane Cookies are a festive twist on traditional sugar cookies, featuring a peppermint flavor and a signature red and white swirl.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Red food coloring
- Candy cane pieces for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract, mixing well.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until combined.
- Divide the dough in half. Leave one half plain and add red food coloring to the other half, mixing until the color is uniform.
- Take small pieces of each dough and roll them into ropes. Twist the red and white ropes together to form a candy cane shape.
- Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and sprinkle with candy cane pieces.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow to cool on a wire rack before serving.
Notes
- For a stronger peppermint flavor, increase the peppermint extract.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- These cookies can be decorated with icing for an extra festive touch.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
