A Festive Treat for the Holidays!
The holiday season is a time for family, cheer, and, of course, delicious treats! One treat that perfectly encapsulates all the joy of Christmas is the delightful Candy Cane Cookie. With their vibrant red and white swirls and a refreshing minty taste, these cookies are as pleasing to the eyes as they are to the palate. Did you know that the iconic candy cane dates back to the 1670s? Bakers began using its distinct shape as a symbol of Christ, making these cookies not just a festive treat but also a charming part of holiday traditions!
With a straightforward recipe that takes no time at all, Candy Cane Cookies are perfect for families looking to spread some cheer together. They are simple enough for kids to help with, creating joy-filled memories while you whisk and bake. If you love the buttery goodness of Peanut Butter Blossoms that melt in your mouth, you’re going to adore these minty morsels! So, let’s dive into this playful holiday cookie recipe that’s sure to fill your home with warmth and sweetness!
What are Candy Cane Cookies?
Candy Cane Cookies—what a whimsical name! Have you ever thought about how candy canes became the inspiration behind one of the cutest cookie concepts ever? These cookies are essentially a festive twist on classic sugar cookies, combined with peppermint flavor and a stunning visual appeal. Imagine biting into a cookie that strikes the perfect balance between buttery sweetness and a splash of minty coolness. They say, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and with these cookies, you might just have a line forming at the kitchen counter! Grab your mixing bowls and let’s get baking; you won’t want to miss out on this holiday delight!
Why You’ll Love These Candy Cane Cookies
You’re going to fall in love with Candy Cane Cookies for three delightful reasons. First, the taste is out of this world! The combination of buttery cookie dough with a hint of peppermint is absolutely refreshing, making each bite a joyful experience that captures the spirit of the holidays. Secondly, making these cookies at home is a budget-friendly indulgence. Why buy store-bought when you can whip up an entire batch in the comfort of your kitchen? Not only will it save you money, but the satisfaction of creating something from scratch is simply unbeatable!
Lastly, the unique presentation of these cookies is something your family and friends will rave about. With their signature red and white spirals, these cookies look beautiful on any holiday platter. They remind us of classic holiday treats, like gingerbread cookies, but bring a fresh, minty twist to the table. So, are you ready to add some festive cheer to your kitchen? Let’s jump in and make these delightful cookies!
How to Make Candy Cane Cookies
Quick Overview
Candy Cane Cookies are incredibly simple to make, yet they deliver on flavor and charm. In just about 30 minutes of preparation, you’ll have vibrant, delicious cookies ready to enjoy or share! These cookies capture the essence of the holiday season with their delicious buttery base infused with peppermint. The key elements are the well-balanced flavor and the ease of preparation, making them a favorite for bakers of all skill levels.
Key Ingredients for Candy Cane Cookies
Here’s what you’ll need to create these festive treats:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Red food coloring
- Crushed candy canes, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes with a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed.
- Add Egg and Extracts: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until fully combined. The aroma will be heavenly!
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Divide the Dough: Once the dough is ready, divide it into two equal parts. Leave one part plain for the white cookies, and add red food coloring to the other part until you achieve the desired color.
- Shape the Cookies: Take small pieces of each color (about one tablespoon each) and roll them into ropes. Twist a white and red rope together to form the shape of a candy cane.
- Bake the Cookies: Place the formed cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one. Bake for 9-11 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.
- Garnish: Let the cookies cool slightly, then sprinkle some crushed candy canes on top for that extra festive flair.
- Enjoy: Once cooled, enjoy your Candy Cane Cookies with a hot cup of cocoa or as a delightful dessert after a festive meal!
What to Serve Candy Cane Cookies With
These delightful cookies pair beautifully with a variety of holiday treats! Serve them alongside a rich hot chocolate topped with whipped cream or a festive spiced chai. They also go great with creamy eggnog or a simple glass of cold milk. For a complete holiday spread, consider adding a platter of Gingerbread Men or a slice of Pumpkin Pie to your table. This combination will surely create a warm, cozy atmosphere for family and friends to enjoy!
Top Tips for Perfecting Candy Cane Cookies
To elevate your Candy Cane Cookies to the next level, here are some pro tips! First, for a more intense peppermint flavor, you can add an extra drop of peppermint extract—just be careful not to overdo it! If you want an added crunch, try incorporating mini chocolate chips in the dough for a delightful surprise. Make sure to not overbake; pulling them out when they are just set will ensure a chewy texture. Lastly, if you’re feeling extra creative, consider dipping half of each cookie in white chocolate and sprinkling with more crushed candy canes for a stunning presentation!
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store leftover Candy Cane Cookies, place them in an airtight container lined with parchment paper in a cool, dry place. They can stay fresh for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them; just ensure they are well-wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, or let them sit at room temperature for a quick snack anytime!
Holiday baking doesn’t have to be complicated; with Candy Cane Cookies, you’ll have a festive treat that brings joy to your home! Happy baking, and may your holiday season be filled with love, laughter, and delicious cookies!
Candy Cane Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Divide the dough into two equal parts. Leave one part plain and add red food coloring to the other part until desired color is achieved.
- Take small pieces of each color (about one tablespoon each) and roll them into ropes. Twist a white and red rope together to form the shape of a candy cane.
- Place the formed cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart, and bake for 9-11 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool slightly, then sprinkle with crushed candy canes for a festive flair.
- Enjoy your Candy Cane Cookies with a hot cup of cocoa or as a delightful dessert!
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