Candy Cane Cookies Recipe

Candy Cane Cookies Recipe is a delightful treat that combines the festive flavors of peppermint and the charm of traditional cookies. These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply to enjoy with a cup of hot cocoa. The vibrant red and white swirl design not only looks appealing but also offers a unique peppermint flavor that is sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Appeal: The striking red and white colors make these cookies ideal for holiday celebrations.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginners can whip up these delicious treats.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of vanilla and peppermint creates a delightful taste that everyone will love.
• Perfect for Gifting: Pack them in a decorative tin for a thoughtful homemade gift during the festive season.
• Versatile Treat: Great for Christmas, birthdays, or any special occasion where sweet treats are welcome.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Candy Cane Cookies requires some essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Parchment paper or Silpat mat

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes mixing the dough easy and ensures it reaches the perfect fluffy consistency.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the best flavor and texture in your cookies.
• Parchment paper or Silpat mat: Prevents sticking, making it easier to remove your cookies after baking without breaking.

Ingredients

Old-fashioned peppermint Candy Cane Cookies.

For the Cookies

• 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 to ensure even mixing.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

1. Reduce mixer speed. Gradually add in flour and salt, mixing until well combined.
2. Divide the dough into two equal halves.

Step 3: Color the Dough

1. In one half of the cookie dough, add red food coloring. Mix until fully incorporated, creating a vibrant color.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

1. Shape each half of dough into discs. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap.
2. Refrigerate for at least one hour or up to overnight for better flavor development.

Step 5: Preheat Oven

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

Step 6: Shape Cookies

1. Measure one tablespoon from each color dough. Roll into 6-inch long logs.
2. Twist both logs together gently and place on parchment paper or Silpat-lined baking sheets.

Step 7: Chill Before Baking

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

Step 8: Bake

1. Bake in preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until bottoms are lightly golden brown.

Step 9: Prepare Glaze

1. While cookies are baking, mix together glaze ingredients—combine powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and enough milk to reach desired consistency.

Step 10: Glaze Cookies

1. Spoon glaze over cooled cookies once they have set slightly after baking.

Enjoy your festive Candy Cane Cookies! Perfectly sweet with a hint of mint, they’re bound to be a hit this holiday season!

How to Serve Candy Cane Cookies Recipe

Candy Cane Cookies are not only delightful treats but also make for a festive presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your holiday gatherings or cookie exchanges.

On a Festive Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a decorated platter with seasonal decorations like holly or pinecones for a charming look.

With Hot Cocoa

• Serve warm Candy Cane Cookies alongside a mug of hot cocoa topped with whipped cream and crushed candy canes for a cozy treat.

Gift-Wrapped

• Package the cookies in clear cellophane bags tied with a red ribbon. This makes for lovely homemade gifts during the holiday season.

At Cookie Exchanges

• Bring your Candy Cane Cookies to cookie exchanges. Their festive colors and delicious flavor will surely impress fellow bakers.

As Holiday Party Favors

• Offer small bags of cookies as party favors at holiday gatherings, allowing guests to take home a sweet memory of the occasion.

With Ice Cream

• Pair these cookies with peppermint or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that’s sure to please everyone.

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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: Refrigerating the dough helps maintain its shape while baking, preventing overly spread cookies.

• Use fresh extracts: Opt for high-quality pure vanilla and peppermint extracts for the best flavor in your cookies.

• Properly measure flour: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies.

• Watch baking time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; they should be lightly golden on the bottom but still soft on top.

• Let cool completely: Allow the cookies to cool before glazing them, ensuring that the glaze sets nicely without melting away.

Best Side Dishes for Candy Cane Cookies Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Candy Cane Cookies can elevate your dessert table. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Peppermint Bark – A classic combination of chocolate and crushed candy canes, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings.
2. Gingerbread Men – These spiced cookies complement the minty flavors of Candy Cane Cookies wonderfully.
3. Chocolate Truffles – Rich and creamy chocolate truffles provide a luxurious feel alongside festive cookies.
4. Fruitcake – A traditional holiday favorite that adds a fruity contrast to the sweetness of Candy Cane Cookies.
5. Eggnog – This creamy drink enhances the flavors of mint and chocolate, making it an ideal pairing.
6. Marshmallow Treats – Chewy and sweet, these treats provide another texture that balances well with crunchy cookies.
7. Pecan Pie Bars – The nutty flavors in these bars contrast nicely with peppermint, creating a tasty variety on your dessert table.
8. Spiced Apple Cider – Warm cider infused with spices can enhance any holiday dessert experience, including your Candy Cane Cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Candy Cane Cookies Recipe, avoid these common pitfalls for the best results.

• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in a more defined cookie shape. Make sure to refrigerate for at least one hour.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science, and small discrepancies can affect your cookies’ texture and flavor. Use measuring cups and spoons for precise measurements.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined to ensure a tender result.
• Ignoring the oven temperature: An incorrect oven temperature can lead to underbaked or burnt cookies. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if necessary.
• Not letting cookies cool properly: Allowing cookies to cool on the baking sheet can cause them to become soft. Transfer them to a wire rack after a few minutes for optimal texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Candy Cane Cookies Recipe

• Freeze baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• For best results, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a container.

Reheating Candy Cane Cookies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 5-7 minutes for fresh-tasting cookies.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Candy Cane Cookies Recipe.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

You may substitute margarine, but it may alter the flavor slightly. Butter adds richness that enhances the overall taste.

How do I make my Candy Cane Cookies more festive?

Consider adding crushed candy canes on top of the glaze or using different colors of food coloring for fun patterns.

Can I freeze unbaked cookie dough?

Yes! You can freeze shaped cookie logs and bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to baking time.

What variations can I try with this Candy Cane Cookies Recipe?

Feel free to experiment by incorporating chocolate chips, nuts, or different extracts like almond or orange to create unique flavors.

How do I store leftover glaze?

Store leftover peppermint glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Re-whip before using.

Final Thoughts

This Candy Cane Cookies Recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings and cozy evenings at home. The delightful peppermint flavor combined with their charming appearance makes them a festive treat everyone will love. Feel free to customize them with various toppings or flavors!